Sitting at 2-4, the Philadelphia Eagles are trying to salvage their 2026 season with a win over the Dallas Cowboys, but some players, like cornerback Riq Woolen, have a lot to play for in the game.
Woolen joined as the team's top free-agent signing on a one-year deal. The hope was that he could be a reliable CB2 alongside Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean in the secondary.
So far, the results through six games have been mixed, leading to a fascinating decision for the Eagles. Depending on how the Eagles-Cowboys Monday Night Football showdown goes, Woolen might be looking at his final snaps in a short run in Philly.
Riq Woolen's performance through six games has started an Eagles conversation
Opinions vary on how Eagles fans feel about Woolen's play through the first six games of the 2026 season. His stats include 24 tackles, four pass deflections, and one forced fumble.
According to Pro Football Reference, Woolen's coverage numbers have been mixed. He has allowed a 55.9% completion rate, the second-highest of his five-year NFL career. His major problem is that he has allowed a passer rating of 100 and an average of 13.6 yards per reception; both are career-worst for him.
Pro Football Focus has given Woolen an overall grade of 69.4, ranking him 21st out of 102 eligible cornerbacks. They also gave him a coverage grade of 68.3 (ranked 25th) and a run-defense grade of 69.5 (ranked 36th).
In some respects, experts believe that Adoree' Jackson played better than Woolen is pacing to be. The Philly Special's Anthony DiBona compared Jackson's numbers to Woolen's.
"Eagles CB Riq Woolen has allowed 12.9 yards per reception and 3 TDs in 2026. He has also been called for five penalties.
Adoree’ Jackson allowed 11.7 yards per reception and 2 TDs in 2025. He was called for one penalty."
Eagles CB Riq Woolen has allowed 12.9 yards per reception and 3 TDs in 2026. He has also been called for five penalties.
— Anthony DiBona (@DiBonaNFL) October 23, 2026
Adoree’ Jackson allowed 11.7 yards per reception and 2 TDs in 2025. He was called for one penalty. https://t.co/NkSHnOFGHj pic.twitter.com/xXkNYbjDGr
Could the Eagles trade Riq Woolen after just playing for the team for half the season?
The big question for the Eagles in the next few weeks is who they might trade at the deadline. Woolen has been a popular name since he is on a one-year contract and will most likely not return in the offseason.
That massive decision really depends on how the Eagles perform against the Cowboys. If they win, they will be right behind the New York Giants in the NFC East, so they can't move on from Woolen. If Philly loses this game, it will be 2-5, and it will be easier for them to trade Woolen and load up on draft picks.
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman will have to start thinking about what is best for the team in 2027 and beyond. Getting as many draft picks as possible is their only shot at opening their Super Bowl window.
Read more: DeVonta Smith's injury might force Eagles into move that'll end their 2026 season
Woolen has been a solid player for the Eagles in 2026, but he is not part of their plans unless he goes off over the next few games. Otherwise, he could end up being traded from the team.
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