As the NFL's open negotiating period approaches Monday at noon ET, a concerning scenario for Eagles fans appears increasingly likely. Pro Football Focus has identified Philadelphia edge defender Josh Sweat as the "perfect fit" for the Washington Commanders' defensive needs.
The Commanders are expected to aggressively pursue edge defender talent, with Sweat emerging as their primary free agent target if potential trades for Cincinnati's Trey Hendrickson fail to materialize.
Sweat delivered another productive season in 2024, generating 66 pressures with a 14.0% pass-rush win rate. His exceptional performance in Washington's preferred 4-3 defensive scheme makes him particularly attractive to the Commanders, as his 85.9 PFF pass-rushing grade in that system ranks fifth among qualified edge rushers over the past two years.
"Considering that only one Washington defensive lineman even eclipsed a 70.0 PFF pass-rushing grade or a 10.5% pass-rush win rate in 2024, Sweat could transform the unit overnight," notes PFF's analysis.
Fresh off Philadelphia's Super Bowl victory, Sweat is projected to command approximately $18-20 million annually on his next contract. His 2024 campaign included eight regular-season sacks-the second-highest total of his career-plus an additional 2.5 sacks during the Eagles' championship playoff run. In three matchups against Washington last season, including the playoffs, Sweat recorded one sack against Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.
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Sweat would represent a significant upgrade to Washington's defense, especially with defensive end Clelin Ferrell and outside linebacker Dante Fowler Jr. heading toward free agency. However, PFF analysts note that while Sweat would dramatically improve Washington's pass rush, his run defense remains a potential concern-ranking just 16th among 20 edge defenders with comparable snap counts in 2024, according to PFF.
Eagles fans now face the uncomfortable prospect of watching a key defensive contributor potentially strengthen a division rival as free agency negotiations begin tomorrow.
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This story was originally published March 9, 2025 at 5:00 PM.