While the Philadelphia Eagles have shown a willingness to give second chances to players with troubled pasts, the organization takes a calculated and cautious approach when it comes to the NFL Draft—and that process starts with one man: Dom DiSandro.
Known affectionately as “Big Dom” to Eagles fans, DiSandro is far more than the imposing figure often seen next to head coach Nick Sirianni on the sideline. As the team’s senior advisor to the general manager, chief security officer, and gameday coaching operations lead, DiSandro plays a pivotal role in evaluating draft prospects—particularly when it comes to off-field character concerns.
General manager Howie Roseman recently pulled back the curtain on how integral DiSandro is to the organization’s talent acquisition philosophy.
“We do have objective criteria that we look at to take players off our board,” Roseman explained. “We start with these basic principles of, ‘We will not draft because of this.’ When we get past those guys, then we obviously have a process we go through. That starts with Dom.”
It’s not just vetting arrests or disciplinary actions—it’s about reading people. Understanding the nuances. Knowing what might fly under the radar.
“I don't think there's any doubt that he's the best in the National Football League, and in my opinion all of sports, at what he does,” Roseman continued, praising DiSandro’s unmatched ability to assess personalities and uncover red flags others might miss.
This rigorous pre-draft character evaluation stands in stark contrast to the Eagles’ documented willingness to offer second chances to veterans and prospects with legal issues. From Michael Vick to more recent acquisitions like Jalen Carter, the team has consistently opened its doors to players who have shown growth and accountability—but it remains especially vigilant when it comes to prospects just entering the league.
That’s where DiSandro’s decades of experience come in. Since joining the Eagles in 1999, he’s been a behind-the-scenes force in helping guide the team from perennial playoff contender to Super Bowl champion. He doesn’t just run background checks—he digs deep, gathering intel from coaches, administrators, former teammates, and law enforcement. It’s a job that requires not just information gathering but emotional intelligence.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approached, DiSandro’s work was again a central part of the Eagles’ war room strategy. With the organization holding eight picks over the first five rounds, the emphasis on character and culture remained just as strong as the focus on physical ability.
And Philly thinks it won again.
The Eagles understand that championship rosters aren’t built on talent alone—they’re built on trust, discipline, and locker room chemistry. DiSandro’s vetting process reflects that philosophy, ensuring every draft pick fits not just the scheme, but the culture.
In a league where headlines are too often dominated by off-field issues, Philadelphia’s measured approach—anchored by Big Dom’s tireless work—continues to be one of the franchise’s greatest competitive advantages.