Many teams began free agency with splash signings on Monday. As expected, the Philadelphia Eagles lost both defensive end Josh Sweat and defensive tackle Milton Williams. Sweat signed a four-year, $76.4 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals, while Williams signed a four-year, $104 million contract with the New England Patriots.
While Eagles fans were anticipating that both guys would no longer be on the team in 2025, losing Williams hurts the most. Having an athletic defensive tackle who knows how to get after the quarterback completed the defensive line. That said, there were a few other free agent options available to fill that role.
Among them were Grady Jarrett and Javon Hargrave. Unfortunately for the Eagles, both players are now off the market. Jarrett signed with the Chicago Bears, while Hargrave signed with the Minnesota Vikings, according to Tom Pelissero. Hargrave joining the Vikings shuts down the possibility of a reunion between him and the Eagles before the end of his career.
Eagles Miss Out on Javon Hargrave Reunion
Prior to his time with the San Francisco 49ers, Hargrave spent three seasons (2020-2022) in Philadelphia. During those three seasons, the now 32-year-old defensive tackle racked up 161 tackles, 24 TFLs, 23 sacks, 112 QB hurries, and two forced fumbles.
Moreover, Hargrave had two seasons with a pass rush grade of 90 or above and one season at 83.9, according to PFF. That type of production made him a beloved Eagle.
Despite that, Philadelphia opting not to re-sign the 32-year-old might be a smart move. Hargrave missed most of last season with an injury, so there's no telling how he will perform next season. Furthermore, his contract details are not yet public, meaning Minnesota could have spent a lot on Hargrave.
If that's the case, then the Eagles didn't have a chance of re-signing him anyway. With both Jarrett and Hargrave off the market, Philadelphia must pivot to another option.