Philadelphia, PA - April 18, 2025 - The Philadelphia Eagles have locked in a cornerstone of their top-ranked defense by activating the fifth-year option for defensive tackle Jordan Davis, securing the run-stopping star through 2026. Reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the move ensures the 2022 first-round pick remains a pillar of Vic Fangio’s unit, which led the NFL in 2024, allowing just 17.8 points per game. With an elite 8.2% run stop rate, Davis is vital to Philadelphia’s Super Bowl LIX title defense as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft.
Drafted 13th overall from Georgia, Davis (6’6”, 336 lbs) has been a force despite missing 12-15 games over three seasons due to hamstring and ankle injuries. In 2024, he notched 3.5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss, 15 quarterback hits, and 45 tackles in 13 games, with a PFF run-defense grade of 80.2 (top 15 DTs). His 8.2% run stop rate, ranking among the NFL’s top 20 DTs, highlights his ability to halt runs for minimal gain, anchoring a defense that held opponents to 3.9 yards per carry (top 5).
“Jordan sets our defensive tone,” Fangio said.
The fifth-year option guarantees Davis $14.1 million in 2026, reflecting GM Howie Roseman’s trust in his growth. “He’s our anchor,” Roseman said. The decision, made ahead of the May 2 deadline, fits Roseman’s strategy of retaining young stars like Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley, with $60 million in 2025 cap space easing the financial burden.
The Eagles face defensive gaps after losing Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, Darius Slay, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Davis’ 32.7% double-team rate (top 5 DTs) frees up Jalen Carter and Travon Walker, but his injury history raises concerns. Still, his playoff sack and Super Bowl impact silenced critics.
“JD’s a beast when healthy,” tweeted @PhillyFaithful.
With the No. 32 pick and eight draft selections, Roseman may target an EDGE (Donovan Ezeiruaku) or safety (Malaki Starks) while relying on Davis to clog the middle. His extension strengthens Philadelphia’s trenches-first identity, ensuring Fangio’s defense remains elite.
