Eagles trade Jordan Davis for 2027 first-rounder and 2029 second-rounder
Philadelphia accepts a 2-7 start and moves on from a star defender as it builds a future roster.
By Lorenzo Patterson ·
The Philadelphia Eagles traded defensive end Jordan Davis to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday for a first-round pick in 2027 and a second-round pick in 2029. The move sends a clear signal that the current season is effectively over for a team that has lost two of its last three games.
General manager Howie Roseman acted with the deadline in mind, though the trade was completed 24 hours before the Tuesday 4 p.m. deadline. The acquisition strengthens Jacksonville’s top-10 defense, which now features a player under contract through 2029. The Jaguars hold a three-game lead in the AFC South and have a favorable schedule remaining.
For the Eagles, the trade addresses a contract that may have been miscalculated. Davis signed a three-year, $78 million extension in March. Since then, his production has slowed. He has recorded one and a half sacks in the first nine games of the season, down from four and a half in 2025. His snap count percentage has also dropped from 61 percent to 52 percent.
The draft capital received offers potential flexibility. Both picks are projected to fall between Nos. 30 and 55. Roseman has shown a knack for value in that range, selecting All-Pro corner Cooper DeJean at No. 40, Nolan Smith Jr. at No. 30, Landon Dickerson at No. 37, and Cam Jurgens at No. 51. These players have become key contributors to the roster.
The trade also implies a future direction for the defensive line. The Eagles did not trade defensive tackle Moro Ojomo, who is a free agent after this season. Ojomo, a 2023 seventh-round pick, recorded six sacks in 2025 but has none this season. His presence suggests Philadelphia intends to extend his contract, though the decision is not yet confirmed.
Context for the trade lies in the team’s quarterback situation. The Eagles have lost two of their last three games and are 2-7. They have cycled through multiple starters, including Jalen Hurts, who is dealing with blood clots, and rookie Cole Payton. Only one team in NFL history has reached the postseason after a 2-7 start.
Roseman’s moves were part of a wider Monday reset. The Eagles acquired safety Jessie Bates from the Atlanta Falcons and defensive tackle Davon Godchaux from the New Orleans Saints. Both players are free agents next season, offering immediate help without long-term commitment. This contrasts with the long-term cost of the Davis contract.
The team’s offense has struggled, and the earlier trade of A.J. Brown to the Patriots now looks favorable given Brown’s injury issues and low output. The Eagles are betting on a younger core and increased draft capital to rebuild. The loss of a popular team captain underscores a willingness to prioritize long-term assets over short-term continuity.
