Josh Sweat Makes Unexpected Change Ahead of 2024 Season

The Philadelphia Eagles got one step closer to the 2024 season this week with the start of their OTA program. These workouts will allow newcomers to get some reps in, while entrenched veterans have a chance to start building momentum with their new teammates.

Pass rusher Josh Sweat is someone who'll be a key part of the Eagles' defense once again, this time on a revamped unit. With this group sporting some new faces, it turns out Sweat is making a change of his own.

Several Philadelphia beat reporters spotted this weekend that the Eagles' website features an updated jersey number for Sweat, who's apparently switching from No. 94 to No. 19 in 2024. This marks the third time Sweat has changed his digits, as the former fourth-round pick wore 75 during his rookie campaign.

In addition, quarterback Tanner McKee -- who previously owned No. 19 -- is now rocking No. 16.

The NFL's loosening of number restrictions will allow Sweat to wear a number that's not traditional for defensive lineman. This has been a popular jersey for players in recent Philly history, with the likes of JJ Arcedga-White, Golden Tate and Miles Austin all donning these digits since 2015.

Perhaps this switch-up will bode well for Sweat, who's coming off of a 6.5-sack season in 2023 that was his lowest total since 2020. He's just one year removed from 11 sacks and his first-ever Pro Bowl nod, though, so it's obvious he has double-digit upside.

Maybe he'll even sniff No. 19 while wearing that number, if new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has an immediate impact on this group.

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