The Philadelphia Eagles made several roster moves in the hours following the team’s Week 1 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Philly did enough to win, but the front office clearly sees areas on the roster where there is room for improvement.
The Eagles started the day by announcing the signing of former New England Patriots wide receiver Javon Baker along with the release of linebacker Antwaun Powell-Ryland. Hours later, the Eagles made a big splash by agreeing to terms with 3-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Za’Darius Smith.
“BREAKING: The Eagles are signing 3x Pro Bowl OLB Za’Darius Smith to a 1-year deal with upside to $9M, per multiple sources,” NFL insider Jordan Schultz detailed in a series of September 5, 2025, messages on X.
“Philly adds to its pass-rush with Smith, who recorded 9 sacks with the Lions and Browns last season. Za’Darius Smith spent the day with Philly, and already passed his physical, per source. The Eagles had another pass-rusher.”
Here’s what you need to know about the Eagles’ latest roster moves.
Za’Darius Smith Signed a 1-Year Contract With the Eagles Worth as Much as $9 Million
Smith’s days of commanding a four-year, $66 million contract like the deal the defender signed with the Green Bay Packers in 2019 are likely over. Instead, Smith is inking a team-friendly, one-year deal with the Eagles that could be worth as much as $9 million, per Schultz.
Overall, head coach Nick Sirianni appeared pleased with the Eagles defensive effort against the Cowboys, especially with the team suddenly being without star defensive tackle Jalen Carter for the entire game. Yet, Philadelphia is still searching for answers on a defense that lost several key players during the offseason.
“To give up 20 points against a really good team, a really good offense, I think– again, they’ve got good offensive line, [Cowboys QB] Dak Prescott’s a really good quarterback, two really good wide receivers, a really good tight end, running backs that can make plays with the football,” Sirianni told reporters on September 5.
“I thought BY [DT Byron Young] came in and had that strip, which was huge. Again, goes back to when we win the turnover battle, good things happen for us as a team.”
What Can the Eagles Expect From Za’Darius Smith?
It remains to be seen what kind of impact Smith can make on the Eagles defense. Smith is a 3-time Pro Bowler but has not received the honor since 2022.
It is a low risk move for the Eagles given Smith signed a one-year deal. Philadelphia also has a talented defensive roster, meaning Smith will be surrounded by impact players making the pass rusher’s job a little easier.
New Eagles WR Javon Baker Was Selected by the Patriots in the 4th Round of the 2024 NFL Draft
While not as high-profile of a move, the addition of Baker is also intriguing. Baker is entering his second NFL season after the Patriots selected the playmaker in the fourth round of the 2024 draft.
After a standout college football career at UCF, Baker’s rookie season in New England did not go quite as planned. Baker only recorded one reception during his 11 appearances for the Patriots in 2024.
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