Philadelphia, PA – May 15, 2025 – As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up to defend their Super Bowl LIX title, the team’s secondary could use a veteran boost. With the draft over and the trade market quiet, The Philly Voice’s Evan Carter is urging GM Howie Roseman to sign Mike Hilton, a $37 million free agent cornerback from the Cincinnati Bengals, to bolster the Eagles’ already formidable defense.
Hilton, a 30-year-old slot corner, has been a reliable playmaker throughout his eight-year career with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Bengals, starting 56 games. Known for his ability to cover the slot and force turnovers, Hilton’s veteran presence could complement stars like Jalen Carter and Quinyon Mitchell, who combined for 7 interceptions in 2024. “Hilton’s experience and grit fit the Philly mold,” Carter wrote, noting his knack for taking the ball away.
Despite a down year in 2024—where Hilton allowed a 105.6 passer rating when targeted—he remains a valuable depth piece. Spotrac projects his market value at $12.3 million annually over three years, totaling $37 million, but Carter believes the Eagles could sign him for less, given his late availability in May. “He’s a steal for a contender like us,” Carter argued, highlighting Hilton’s potential role as a high-level backup or situational starter under Vic Fangio’s scheme.
The Eagles’ secondary, featuring Darius Slay and Cooper DeJean, is already stout, but adding Hilton could provide insurance against injuries. Fans on X are intrigued, with one posting, “Hilton in Philly? Let’s lock down the NFC!” Lane Johnson echoed the sentiment, saying, “We’d welcome a vet like that to push us.”
Hilton’s signing would also intensify the Eagles’ rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys, who recently added Kaiir Elam to pair with Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland. With A.J. Brown and Jalen Hurts leading an explosive offense, Hilton could be the final piece for another Super Bowl LX run. Roseman, known for savvy moves like signing UDFA Hollin Pierce, might just strike again.
