Eagles Face Defensive Challenges as Injuries Mount, Eye Ohio State’s Tuimoloau in Draft

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Philadelphia Eagles entered the second half of the NFL regular season with one of the league’s most formidable starting lineups, but injuries to key defensive players have raised concerns about their depth. Inside linebacker Nakobe Dean, a cornerstone of the defense, is sidelined, leaving a significant gap in the team’s defensive scheme.

Dean, alongside Zack Baun, had been instrumental in locking down the linebacker positions, playing a majority of the team’s defensive snaps. The Eagles’ edge defenders are also under pressure, with Brandon Graham on injured reserve and Bryce Huff‘s availability limited. This leaves Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith Jr., and rookie Jalyx Hunt as the primary options heading into the 2025 offseason.

With Sweat’s contract situation uncertain and Graham potentially retiring after a torn triceps injury, The Athletic predicts the Eagles will target Ohio State‘s J.T. Tuimoloau in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Tuimoloau, a 6-foot-5, 270-pound pass rusher, has recorded 22.5 sacks over three seasons with the Buckeyes and has been a standout in College Football Playoff games, amassing 17 total pressures this year.

“Tuimoloau is a smart, alert player who plays the run well and also can get after the quarterback,” said an analyst from The Athletic. “With Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham possibly moving on, the Eagles will be looking for reinforcements on the edges this offseason.”

The Eagles’ focus on defense aligns with their 2024 draft strategy, where they selected Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, and Hunt with their first three picks. General Manager Howie Roseman appears committed to building a young, talented defense on cost-effective rookie contracts.

Huff, who signed a lucrative deal last offseason, has struggled with injuries, including a wrist issue, but returned for the playoff game against the Packers. However, the Eagles may explore trading Huff in 2025 to free up cap space. Graham’s potential retirement further underscores the need for a dynamic edge rusher like Tuimoloau.

Fans will have a chance to evaluate Tuimoloau’s skills on Monday night as Ohio State faces Notre Dame in the college football national championship game. The Eagles’ draft strategy could hinge on his performance, as they aim to address their defensive vulnerabilities and remain competitive in the NFC.