The Philadelphia Eagles announced their initial 53-man roster, but team leadership made clear that further changes are likely before the start of the season. Executive Vice President and General Manager Howie Roseman addressed reporters at the NovaCare Complex on Tuesday after the team reached the NFL-mandated roster limit.
“I would say this: I would say we’re not done here,” Roseman said. “We’re not done. We’ll see what happens in the next 24 hours. I think I said this the last time we spoke: We’ve got a lot of (2026 NFL Draft) picks here (currently nine, with some projected compensatory selections not included in that total) and we’re happy to use those picks in the draft, but I think, for us, the early part of the season, September, we’ve got to see what we have. If we need something, I’ll do whatever I can to help this football team and be aggressive and Jeffrey (Lurie, Chairman and CEO) gives me that opportunity to do that and so, I don’t think that we’re done. This is a work in progress.”
Roseman noted that building and improving the roster is an ongoing process that extends beyond meeting league deadlines. The current group includes 70 players when accounting for practice squad spots available starting Wednesday.
This offseason saw significant additions on both sides of the ball. Offensively, ten starters return alongside internal improvements from players such as wide receiver Jahan Dotson and right guard Tyler Steen. The team also brought in fullback Ben VanSumeren from defense; running back A.J. Dillon and tight end Kylen Granson through free agency; as well as quarterback Sam Howell, tackle Fred Johnson, and wide receiver John Metchie III via trade.
On defense, Philadelphia focused on increasing speed and versatility across all levels of play. The interior defensive line features Jalen Carter—whom Roseman described as “a special player”—alongside Jordan Davis and Moro Ojomo. “They look primed for a big year and they’re physically dominant as well,” Roseman said regarding Davis and Ojomo.
The emergence of Gabe Hall and Byron Young during spring and summer workouts was highlighted by Roseman as a potential strength for the unit moving forward. Edge rushers Nolan Smith Jr., Jalyx Hunt, Joshua Uche, Azeez Ojulari, and Ogbo Okoronkwo round out a deep group intended to provide consistent pressure.
Philadelphia’s longstanding emphasis on strong line play remains central to its approach. The current roster includes 11 offensive linemen under Run Game Coordinator/Offensive Line Coach Jeff Stoutland’s guidance along with 11 defensive linemen or edge players.
Special teams adjustments are expected soon since there is currently no designated long snapper on the roster—a situation Roseman indicated will change before regular season action begins.
The Eagles face challenges claiming players off waivers due to their position as reigning Super Bowl champions—meaning other teams have priority—but Roseman expressed confidence in his ability to make needed moves using available resources.
With preparations underway for their September 4 opener against Dallas at Lincoln Financial Field, both coaching staff and front office remain focused on finalizing a competitive squad while keeping future seasons in mind.
“I’ll do whatever I can to help this football team,” Roseman said about continuing efforts to strengthen Philadelphia’s lineup.
