Philly Leader

Joshua Uche, a young and determined outside linebacker, addressed the Philadelphia media virtually after signing a one-year contract with the Eagles. The signing took place at the NovaCare Complex, marking a new chapter for Uche, who joined as a free agent following his stint with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024. Previously, he was traded to the Chiefs from the New England Patriots, where he spent four and a half years.

Uche's time with the Chiefs was limited in terms of playing opportunities, but he remains optimistic about returning to his peak performance. In 2022, while with the Patriots, he achieved a career-high of 11.5 sacks. At 26 years old, Uche believes he still has much to offer on the field.

"Being 26 years old, I've got a lot left in the tank," Uche stated. "It just comes down to opportunity and getting on the field doing my job."

Pro Football Focus reports that since 2022, Uche holds a pressure rate of 16.7 percent among edge defenders in the NFL.

The former Michigan second-round pick expressed his desire to join a successful defense and demonstrate his capabilities within the Eagles organization.

"I view it as an opportunity to compete and help bolster a team that's already had so much success," Uche commented on joining Philadelphia.

He also spoke highly of working under Head Coach Nick Sirianni and Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio: "To play for a coach like (Head Coach Nick) Sirianni and coach (Defensive Coordinator Vic) Fangio is an honor."

Uche anticipates benefiting from participating in a full offseason and Training Camp after last year's midseason transition.

"It will be beneficial... I think that's going to play a major factor for me personally," Uche said regarding adapting to his new environment.

In his career spanning 64 games, Uche has accumulated notable statistics including 86 tackles (65 solo), 34 quarterback hits, and 20.5 sacks. Despite being relatively young, he brings substantial NFL experience to Coach Jeremiah Washburn's group of edge rushers.

Reflecting on watching fellow players Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt during the Super Bowl, Uche remarked: "Watching those guys in the Super Bowl – reckless abandonment... I'm just excited to be a part of this group."