Here’s a bold statement for you: The Philadelphia Eagles are playing a strategic long game in the NFL’s offseason, and it’s all about compensatory picks. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some see this as a smart, calculated move, others argue it’s a risky strategy that could leave the team lacking immediate star power. Let’s dive in.
For the second year in a row, the Eagles are poised to lose several key starters to free agency. And no, they’re not expected to splash big money on external free agents. And this is the part most people miss—this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Why? Because the NFL rewards teams like the Eagles with compensatory draft picks when they lose more players than they gain during free agency. These picks, which fall between the third and seventh rounds, are essentially free shots at talent. But how does this work exactly?
Compensatory picks are awarded based on a formula that considers the value of the contracts departing players sign with their new teams, along with other factors like playing time and individual accolades. For instance, if a player signs a massive deal and becomes a starter elsewhere, the team that lost them could snag a higher-round pick. It’s a bit like the NFL’s way of saying, ‘Sorry for your loss, here’s a consolation prize.’
In 2025, the Eagles lost four compensatory free agents (CFAs)—Milton Williams, Josh Sweat, Mekhi Becton, and Isaiah Rodgers. They gained one, Azeez Ojulari. Interestingly, the pick they would’ve received for Rodgers’ departure is canceled out by Ojulari’s signing. So, what’s the projected haul? The Eagles are expected to land a third-round pick for Williams, a fourth-rounder for Sweat, and a fifth-rounder for Becton. Here’s the breakdown:
Players Lost (APY) - Projected Round
- iDL Milton Williams ($26M) - Round 3
- EDGE Josh Sweat ($19.1M) - Round 4
- RG Mekhi Becton ($10M) - Round 5
- CB Isaiah Rodgers ($7.5M) - Round 6
Player Gained (APY) - Projected Round
- EDGE Azeez Ojulari ($3.5M) - Round 7
These picks will likely be awarded in March, giving the Eagles additional ammunition for the draft. But don’t expect this strategy to change in 2026. With limited cap space—especially if A.J. Brown is traded before June 1—and a lackluster free agency class, the Eagles are doubling down on this approach.
Now, let’s talk about the players who could factor into this formula next year. Tight end Dallas Goedert, edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, linebacker Nakobe Dean, and safety Reed Blankenship are all projected to earn contracts that qualify for compensatory picks. While Phillips might stay, Goedert, Dean, and Blankenship are likely on their way out. Phillips’ situation is a toss-up, with odds hovering around 50-50.
These players are highly ranked in free agent projections across major outlets like NFL.com, ESPN, and The Ringer. For example, Phillips is ranked as high as #3, while Dean and Blankenship could command over $10 million per season. Goedert might land around $10 million as well. Here’s the controversial part—is letting these players walk a smart move, or is the Eagles’ front office risking too much by relying on draft picks instead of proven talent?
General Manager Howie Roseman seems unfazed. He’s openly stated that the Eagles aim to build a championship-caliber team by drafting well, retaining their own players, and only sporadically dipping into free agency. ‘It’s not flashy,’ Roseman admits, but he believes it’s the right way to build a sustainable winner. He compares it to baking a layer cake—start with a solid foundation, add more talent through the draft, and repeat the cycle.
But here’s the trade-off: keeping their own players limits flexibility to sign external stars. Roseman acknowledges this, calling it a ‘shuffle of deck chairs.’ So, the Eagles will likely target players who either don’t count toward the compensatory pick formula or have been released by their previous teams.
Thought-provoking question for you—Is the Eagles’ strategy a masterclass in long-term team-building, or are they missing out on immediate opportunities to contend? Let us know in the comments. And while you’re at it, follow Jimmy & PhillyVoice on Twitter (@JimmyKempski | @thePhillyVoice) and like us on Facebook (PhillyVoice Sports) to stay updated on this evolving story. Don’t forget to add Jimmy’s RSS feed to your reader for more insights!
