The NFL’s version of a soft launch for free agency — commonly known as the legal tampering period — begins at noon Monday, allowing teams to negotiate contracts with free agents ahead of the official start of the new league year at 4 p.m. Wednesday. While no deals can be finalized until then, teams often lay the groundwork for major roster moves during this window — and the Eagles have no shortage of decisions to make.
From two highly sought-after free agents who played key roles in the Super Bowl to potential replacements, the team’s salary cap space, and long-term roster planning, there is plenty of intrigue surrounding how the Eagles will approach free agency as they look to defend their championship.
Here’s what to watch for when free agency opens:
Milton Williams and Josh Sweat
After the Eagles signed linebacker Zack Baun and running back Saquon Barkley to contract extensions, it appears there may not be enough cap space to sign defensive tackle Milton Williams or defensive end Josh Sweat. Both players were instrumental in the Eagles' run to the Super Bowl and stood out in the game itself, combining for 4.5 sacks on Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Both Williams and Sweat are expected to command significant contracts on the open market, which could ultimately benefit the Eagles in 2026. The NFL’s compensatory formula factors in several elements, including the average annual value of contracts free agents sign, playing time, and postseason awards. If both players sign lucrative deals, the Eagles could be in line for additional draft compensation.
Will a pair of former Eagles make their way back to Philadelphia?
With Sweat and Williams likely on their way out, a pair of former Eagles are available in free agency, and it’s worth watching whether there’s even an outside shot of them returning to Philadelphia.
Linebacker Haason Reddick did not have the season he hoped for last year after being traded from the Eagles to the New York Jets. Reddick held out for 10 games before eventually returning, finishing with just one sack. The biggest question is whether Reddick is still seeking the long-term, lucrative contract that prompted his trade from Philadelphia or if he would now be open to a short-term deal. If the latter, Reddick could once again be a strong fit as an edge rusher for the Eagles.
The San Francisco 49ers also released Reddick’s former teammate, defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, after he failed to replicate the success he had in Philadelphia. Hargrave finished the season with six sacks, falling short of the production San Francisco hoped for when they signed him to a four-year, $80 million deal in the 2023 offseason. Known more for his ability to rush the passer than stop the run, Hargrave already has experience playing in the Eagles' odd-man fronts, a scheme they have used since 2021.
Like Reddick, if Hargrave is open to signing a short-term deal, he could be a valuable addition to Philadelphia’s defensive line and have a chance to re-establish himself as one of the league’s top interior pass rushers.
Will the Eagles take advantage of the second wave of free agency
According to Over The Cap, the Eagles currently have $22.6 million in cap space, limiting the number of big name free agents that they can add. Last year, they showed a willingness to target players in the “second wave” of free agency, with Baun and offensive tackle Mekhi Becton being two notable additions who contributed during the season.
A few players who could fit that mold this year include New York Giants edge rusher Azeez Ojulari, Washington Commanders defensive tackle Sheldon Day, and other mid-tier free agents who could make an immediate impact in Philadelphia next season.
Compensatory picks for 2026
With rising contract values projected over the next two to three years, the Eagles will likely need to rely on these compensatory draft picks to fill out their roster and develop young players into future starters and contributors. If Philadelphia can secure at least a third-round compensatory pick and either a fourth- or fifth-round selection for both players, it could give them more flexibility in 2026. Knowing they may have extra picks in 2026 could allow the Eagles to be more aggressive on Day 2 of the draft, potentially trading up to target specific players.
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Chris Franklin may be reached at cfranklin@njadvancemedia.com.