Eagles agree to deal with five-year veteran LB

In need of new depth along the edge, the Eagles will look to Josh Uche. The former Patriot and Chief has a one-year deal in place with Philadelphia, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports.

Uche flashed potential at times during his New England tenure. The former second-rounder recorded 11.5 sacks in 2022, but he was never able to carve out a anything more than a rotational role, instead operating as a third-down specialist. Uche regularly found himself attached to trade talk, and in 2024 a deal was made.

The Michigan product was dealt to Kansas City as a rental addition for the second half of the campaign. Uche wound up making six appearances with the Chiefs, but he saw a snap share of only 22%. After failing to record a sack and producing only one QB pressure, the team elected not to use him during the playoffs. Uche will now look to compete for a regular role with the Eagles.

To no surprise, Philadelphia was unable to retain Josh Sweat. The top edge rusher on the market landed a four-year deal with the Cardinals, including $41M in guarantees. His loss will be felt after a strong regular season in 2024 and a memorable performance in Super Bowl LIX. Brandon Graham, meanwhile, is dealing with another triceps tear as he contemplates retirement.

Presuming Graham hangs up his cleats, his absence (along with Sweat’s) will leave plenty of snaps available along the edge. Uche, 26, will provide upside as a potential sack artist, although his underwhelming Chiefs spell will temper expectations upon arrival in Philadelphia. To say the least, the Eagles will hope this deal pans out better than last offseason’s lucrative free agent deal for Bryce Huff.

In addition to Huff, the Super Bowl champions have 2023 first-rounder Nolan Smith and 2024 third-round selection Jalyx Hunt on the books. Uche’s ability to fit in with that group (one which, given general manager Howie Roseman‘s track record, will likely include at least one draft addition next month) will determine his success in Philadelphia and his earning power in 2026.