The defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles are set to open up OTAs later this month as they start trying to repeat in 2025.
OTAs are a great chance for head coach Nick Sirianni and the rest of the Eagles coaching staff to evaluate the entire 90-man roster, which includes the incoming rookie class. Jobs will not be won or lost during OTAs, but certain players can put themselves in a good position ahead of mandatory minicamp and training camp.
That said, veteran pass rusher Josh Uche could use a strong OTAs performance after having a down 2024 season with the New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs. The Eagles signed Uche to a one-year, $1.9 million deal in free agency.
The Eagles went with cheaper options to address their pass rushing department after they saw Josh Sweat sign a huge four-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals and Brandon Graham hang up the cleats.
Philadelphia already has Nolan Smith Jr., likely solidifying himself as one of the starting edge rushers heading into next season. However, the other starting spot is wide open with Jalyx Hunt, Bryce Huff, Ojulari, Uche, and rookie Antwaun Powell-Ryland competing for it.
The Eagles would love to see Huff step up after a dismal 2024 season, but for Uche this a prime opportunity to make a name for himself and become an integral part of Vic Fangio’s scheme.
Last season with the Patriots and Chiefs, Uche had a combined 23 tackles, three quarterback hits, two tackles for loss, and two sacks. His 2024 numbers were eerily similar to what he did in 2023 with the Patriots – 15 combined tackles, six quarterback hits, three tackles for loss, and three sacks.
That said, Philadelphia would love it if the 26-year-old pass rusher could turn back the clock to his 2022 production, where he had 14 quarterback hits, 11.5 sacks (career-high), and nine tackles for loss.
If Uche can become that again during OTAs and in training camp, the Eagles’ defense will have another pass rusher they can throw out there. However, if things don’t pan out with Uche, they can easily move on and find someone else to replace him either in free agency or on the team.