While many teams might have panicked after seeing two key defensive linemen depart in free agency for nearly $200 million combined, the Philadelphia Eagles remained composed.
That confidence stems partly from the presence of star defensive tackles Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis — both former first-round picks — still anchoring the line. It also helps that edge rusher Nolan Smith, another first-rounder, is returning after posting 10.5 combined sacks in the regular season and playoffs.
The Eagles also trust their draft strategy and talent evaluation — a belief that led them to select massive defensive lineman Ty Robinson in the fourth round (No. 111 overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft.
NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Dave Zangaro highlighted the 6-foot-5, 288-pound Robinson as a player who could help fill the void left by free agents Josh Sweat and Milton Williams, as the Eagles prepare to defend their Super Bowl crown.
Nearly $200 Million in Departures
Sweat, who led the team in sacks in 2024, signed a 4-year, $76.4 million deal with the Arizona Cardinals, while Williams joined the New England Patriots on a 4-year, $104 million contract. Together, they tallied 18 sacks last season, including 4.5 in the Super Bowl LIX victory over the Chiefs.
“After losing Williams, the Eagles will need players like Moro Ojomo, Jordan Davis, and rookie Ty Robinson to step up in the rotation,” Zangaro wrote on June 16. “Ojomo has shown potential, but replacing Williams won’t be easy. Davis has been effective against the run but still hasn’t developed as a pass rusher. Robinson is a compelling addition, but he’s still a rookie taken in the fourth round.”
What Robinson Brings to the Eagles
Robinson wrapped up a strong senior year at Nebraska with career-best numbers in tackles (37), sacks (7.0), tackles for loss (13), and pass deflections (4), earning All-Big Ten honors.
He followed that up with a standout performance at the NFL Combine, running a 4.83-second 40-yard dash after trimming down from 310 pounds.
“Bully with a rough, physical style that forces opponents to match his intensity,” NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein wrote. “He’s built for the trenches and can play in both odd and even fronts. He strikes first with his hands and compensates for his average flexibility with raw upper-body strength. While he may not become a star, his motor, toughness, and physicality could make him a steady contributor.”
Robinson may not need to start immediately to make an impact. Like Williams — who only started 19 games over four seasons, 17 of them in the last two years — Robinson could thrive in a rotational role while learning from Carter, Davis, and Smith.
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