Eagles Get Ready to Soar: Young Core Leads Charge, Bringing Joy and Anticipation to Fans

The Philadelphia Eagles are a rare team in today’s NFL—a powerhouse franchise that’s both a Super Bowl contender now and built for long-term success. With the sixth-youngest roster in the league (average age: 25.6 years), the Eagles have a wealth of young talent that hasn’t even reached its prime.

The team’s core players, from Jalen Hurts to Jordan Mailata, are locked into contracts that secure Philadelphia’s dominance for years to come. Heading into the offseason, the Eagles have key players under contract, a manageable list of free agents, and few glaring holes to fill.

Jalen Hurts leads a quarterback group that’s locked in.

Jalen Hurts is the franchise cornerstone, under contract until 2028. His growth into an MVP-caliber player has been crucial to the Eagles’ rise. Behind him, the Eagles have a pair of capable backup quarterbacks signed through next season, offering stability and depth at the league’s most important position.

Saquon Barkley headlines a deep running back room.

Saquon Barkley, one of the Eagles’ most successful free-agent signings ever, is under contract for two more seasons. While his heavy 2024 workload raises questions about longevity, his elite talent makes him the focal point of the rushing attack.

A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith form an elite WR duo.

Wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are both under contract for at least the next four seasons, giving the Eagles a dynamic duo that strikes fear into defenses. Their chemistry with Hurts has been a key driver of the team’s offensive success.

Dallas Goedert remains a reliable option at tight end.

Dallas Goedert has proven to be one of the league’s top tight ends when healthy, contributing as both a pass-catcher and blocker. While durability has been a concern, he’s still under contract and could be extended this offseason on a team-friendly deal.

However, Goedert’s age may have Howie Roseman looking to build the depth chart. With a deep 2025 draft class at the position, the Eagles could look to add depth for the future.

An offensive line built for dominance.

Jordan Mailata has blossomed into a star at left tackle and is under contract for four more years, giving the Eagles stability on the edge. At 34, Lane Johnson continues to be one of the NFL’s best right tackles, showing no signs of slowing down.

Landon Dickerson and Tyler Steen provide the Eagles with a young, talented foundation at guard. Dickerson is under contract for four more years, while Steen offers a cost-effective in-house option if Mekhi Becton departs in free agency. Becton had a bounce-back year but could receive offers beyond the Eagles’ price range.

At center, Cam Jurgens has become a critical piece of the offensive line and is poised for a long-term extension that could keep him in Philadelphia through 2030. His consistency and leadership ensure stability at the heart of the line.

Jalen Carter anchors a strong defensive line.

Jalen Carter is already one of the best interior defensive players in the league at just 23 years old. Milton Williams is another key contributor, though his free agency will test the Eagles’ ability to retain him. Moro Ojomo provides solid depth, while Jordan Davis excels as a run-stuffer but has yet to fully deliver on his first-round potential.

Nolan Smith has emerged as a reliable starter, making significant strides in 2024. Brandon Graham’s future is uncertain as he recovers from a triceps injury, but his leadership remains invaluable. Meanwhile, Josh Sweat could test the free-agent market after a productive season, and rookie Trevor Hunt has shown flashes of promise in the rotation. The Eagles will need to decide if they can retain Sweat or turn to Hunt for a larger role.

Zack Baun leads the linebacker group.

Zack Baun had a breakout 2024 season, earning the most All-Pro votes among linebackers. With Nakobe Dean sidelined after a playoff injury, Baun’s presence becomes even more critical. The Eagles will likely seek veteran help while developing rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean shine at cornerback.

Rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean exceeded expectations in 2024, becoming key contributors in the secondary. Veteran Darius Slay remains reliable, though his future is uncertain. Kelee Ringo could also step into a larger role after a solid year on special teams.

Safeties provide stability in the secondary.

The Eagles’ safety group—Reed Blankenship, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, and Sydney Brown—is locked in for the next two years. Blankenship, in particular, could be a candidate for a long-term extension this offseason, ensuring continuity in the back end.

The Eagles’ future is as bright as their present.

The Philadelphia Eagles aren’t just a team built for this year—they’re built for the future. With young stars leading the way, the franchise has the talent and stability to contend for years to come. Eagles fans should feel confident knowing that their team isn’t just ascending—they’re here to stay.