Eagles Lock in Defensive Stars

0:00It's April 27th. You're listening to NFL News today, AI-powered football coverage. I'm Cory with the story. The Philadelphia Eagles just locked in their defensive stars, Jalen Carter, and Nolan Smith by picking up their fifth-year options. Both 25-year-old former Georgia Bulldogs went first round in 2023, and now they're under contract through at least the 20-27 season. The Eagles' option cost $27.1 million, while Smith's runs $13.8 million. This move gives General Manager Howie Roseman more runway to hammer out long-term extensions. He drafted these guys along with Jordan Davis, who already inked a $3.78 million deal last March. The Eagles have been stacking their defensive line with these young talents, planning cap space around their big contracts. Fans and analysts see Carter as the cornerstone. A two-time pro-boulder and second team all pro last year with 13.5 career sacks. Opponents' game plan around him, even if injuries cut his 2025 season short to 11 games.

1:04Smith brings Heat 2 with 10.5 sacks over three years, including a playoff breakout, but back-to-back triceps tears sideline him. Meanwhile, the team added edge rushers like Jonathan Greenard on a four-year, $100 million repacked, and rising Jelix Hunt, so Smith's spot isn't locked forever. Still, exercising these options keeps the core flexible for two more years. These picks mark four straight first rounders with fifth-year options secured, signaling Philly's all-in on that dominant front staying put.