With the trade deadline looming, the Philadelphia Eagles are actively chasing an edge rusher to plug a glaring hole in their defense. Their pass rush has lacked bite this season and the clock is ticking.
Oct 26, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jahan Dotson (2) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants in the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
The urgency is real. Veteran Za’Darius Smith unexpectedly retired in early October after signing with Philadelphia. First rounder Nolan Smith is sidelined with a triceps injury.
Meanwhile rotational players like Azeez Ojulari and Ogbo Okoronkwo have yet to deliver consistently at the edge. The Eagles’ edge defenders rank 16th in overall grade and 19th in pressure rate this season. Without steady pressure the team risks being exposed in critical moments.
Their window is narrow and [the need is more](https://gridironheroics.com/eagles-michael-carter-trade-jets/) than depth. They need a player who can make a difference. Someone who forces quarterbacks off rhythm and alters the opponent’s game plan. They are officially in must act mode.
Two names stand out on the radar. Jaelan Phillips of the Miami Dolphins is 26 and showing flashes of pass rush talent. But his recent injury history raises questions.
On the other hand, Jermaine Johnson of the New York Jets is a former Pro Bowler but is reportedly off limits unless the asking price is high.
The Eagles must balance cost and reward and decide whether to spend premium draft capital for one year of production or explore a longer term, less costly alternative.
**Philadelphia Eagles Face High-Stakes Edge Rusher Decision That Could Make or Break Playoffs**
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If the Eagles pull the trigger on the right edge rusher the payoff could be immediate. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio would get the boost needed to convert sporadic pressure into reliable disruption.
Real results could show up as more third down stops, fewer clean throws allowed, and a sense of confidence in the locker room. The tactical upside is clear. Win the battle off the edge and the whole defense becomes a weapon instead of a vulnerability.
But if Philadelphia hesitates or balks at the price, the risk is equally clear. They could head into the postseason with a glaring deficiency. Every matchup becomes an opportunity for opponents to exploit the edge, chase the quarterback, and tilt the field in their favor.
The trade clock is ticking. The team may stay quiet on the surface this week, but behind closed doors, the phones are ringing. The decision they make or choose not to make could define how far this season goes.