Philadelphia, PA – May 3, 2025 – The Philadelphia Eagles, reigning Super Bowl LIX champions, bolstered their linebacker corps with an undrafted gem. Their latest signing, a tackling machine, steps in to fill the void left by an injury-plagued star.
K.C. Ossai, a Louisiana standout, signed for $150,000 guaranteed. His 126 tackles, 4 sacks, and 2 interceptions in 2024 echo Nakobe Dean’s tenacity, offering hope to stabilize a defense rocked by Dean’s latest knee injury.
Ossai, at 6’2”, 233 pounds, blends power and speed. His 4,62-second 40-yard dash and 14,5 tackles for loss in 2024 showcase versatility, ideal for Vic Fangio’s scheme, bolstering a unit with Jalen Carter’s dominance.
“He’s relentless,” coach Nick Sirianni declared. Ossai’s All-Sun Belt honors and special teams snaps mirror Dean’s dual-threat role. From Lafayette to Philly, his journey fuels optimism to anchor alongside Lane Johnson’s line.
Dean’s torn patellar tendon sidelined him for the 2025 playoffs, following a 2023 Lisfranc injury. Ossai joins Jihaad Campbell’s 117-tackle spark, challenging Ben VanSumeren for snaps in a defense eyeing another title run.
The Eagles’ $60 million cap, freed by cutting Mekhi Becton, supports Ossai’s deal. With Saquon Barkley’s 2,005 yards driving the offense, Ossai’s grit could fortify protection for Jalen Hurts’ 4,028 yards.
Fan buzz, ignited by Jake Elliott’s clutch kicks, grows despite Rick Lovato’s Giants move. Carson Wentz and Breece Hall loom as Cowboy threats, but Ossai’s hunger counters their NFC East challenge.
Ossai’s 298 career tackles, paired with Jalin Conyers’ flair, position Philly for a repeat. If Fangio unlocks this UDFA’s fire, the Eagles’ defense could soar, chasing another Lombardi Trophy in 2025.
