Green Bay, WI – April 25, 2025 – The Philadelphia Eagles sent shockwaves through the NFC East, executing a blockbuster trade with the New York Giants on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft to secure Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart at pick No. 35. The move, confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, bolsters Philly’s pass rush and cements their title defense.
The Eagles traded their second-round pick (No. 64), third-round pick (No. 96), and a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Giants, receiving pick No. 35 and a sixth-round pick (No. 200) in return. The deal mirrors the Browns-Jaguars swap for Travis Hunter, showcasing GM Howie Roseman’s bold vision.
Stewart, a 6’6”, 280-pound dynamo, recorded 9 sacks, 15 pressures, and a PFF pass-rush grade of 80.2 in 2024. His speed and run-stopping prowess (77.4 run-defense grade) make him a perfect successor to Josh Sweat, who joined Arizona. “Shemar’s a game-changer,” coach Nick Sirianni said.
With Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt starting, the Eagles’ edge depth was thin post-Brandon Graham’s retirement. Stewart, ranked No. 22 by ESPN, pairs with Travon Walker to fortify Vic Fangio’s top-ranked defense (17.8 points allowed per game). “He’s a steal,” NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah noted.
The Giants, after drafting Shedeur Sanders, gained picks to address needs like offensive line, per The Athletic. The trade stunned Philly fans, still buzzing from Dallas Goedert’s extension and Grant Calcaterra’s trade-demand drama. “Roseman’s cooking,” tweeted @PhillyFaithful.
Eagles’ $60 million cap space absorbs Stewart’s rookie deal (4 years, $10 million), leaving room for moves like pursuing Budda Baker. Roseman’s gamble, trading two top-100 picks, limits Day 2 options but prioritizes a high-upside pass rusher.
As the draft continues, Philly’s remaining picks (No. 165, others) may target a cornerback or tight end like Harold Fannin Jr.. “This sets our defense apart,” CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco said. The Eagles, eyeing back-to-back titles, have reignited NFC East rivalries with this seismic trade.
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