Eagles Cut Undrafted CB in Last-Minute Roster Decision
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Eagles Cut Undrafted CB in Last-Minute Roster Decision
In a stunning move just before the 4:00 PM ET deadline on August 26, 2025, the Philadelphia Eagles released a veteran cornerback from their 53-man roster, sending shockwaves through the fanbase. Announced amid a whirlwind of roster cuts, this decision has sparked debates about the Eagles’ defensive strategy as they gear up for the 2025 NFL season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on September 4, 2025.
The cornerback, aged 29, joined the Eagles in March 2025 on a one-year deal after stints with the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants. A first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft from USC, he brought extensive experience, with 404 tackles, 61 pass breakups, six forced fumbles, and four interceptions across 97 games, including 82 starts. Last season with the Giants, he recorded 28 tackles and one fumble recovery in 14 games, earning a 69.0 grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 58th among cornerbacks. “I came to Philly to compete and help defend the Super Bowl title,” he said during training camp, eager to team up with former Giants teammate Saquon Barkley.
Yet, his time with the Eagles ended abruptly. Despite starting in most preseason games and showcasing his speed and coverage skills, he couldn’t outshine the fierce competition at cornerback. The Eagles boast a talented secondary with Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Kelee Ringo, and rookie Cooper DeJean, who impressed with standout interceptions. The recent trade for Jakorian Bennett from the Raiders further crowded the position, pushing him to the roster’s edge. Bleeding Green Nation noted his failure to dominate in final preseason drills, especially compared to younger players like Eli Ricks and Parry Nickerson, who offer similar value at a lower cost.
The cut aligns with General Manager Howie Roseman’s strategy. Nearing 30, the cornerback didn’t fit the Eagles’ focus on long-term youth. Releasing him saves cap space without dead money, as Roseman hinted: “We’re building for a sustainable future.” With A.J. Brown’s health uncertain, the Eagles prioritized resources for positions like the offensive line (Fred Johnson) and wide receiver (John Metchie III) to ensure depth for the opener.
This move carries risks. The Eagles’ secondary must gel quickly to face the Cowboys. “We made tough calls, but the team is on the right path,” coach Nick Sirianni might say, reflecting the NFL’s harsh reality. Fans worry that losing his experience could expose vulnerabilities, especially after Josh Sweat’s departure.
Now entering waivers, the cornerback could be claimed by teams like the Steelers or Vikings for his proven track record. For Eagles fans, this cut underscores the brutal business of football: even seasoned warriors can fall in the roster crunch. Will this streamline the defense or reveal weaknesses? The season will tell, but Philly’s front office clearly isn’t shying away from bold moves to keep soaring.
The player cut is Adoree’ Jackson.
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