The Eagles don't have to decide whether or not to pick up the fifth-year option on Jordan Davis' rookie contract until after the NFL draft.
But how the Eagles feel about the defensive tackle could determine what they do in the seven-round draft, held from April 24-26.
As the Eagles' first-round pick in 2022, the Eagles have until May 1 to decide about Davis' fifth-year option. If the Eagles pick it up, Davis' salary will increase from $3 million this season to about $13 million for 2026.
If they decline, Davis will become a free agent after this season.
So if the Eagles pick a defensive tackle early in the draft, that could be an indication that they won't pick up Davis' option. If they don't draft someone in the early rounds, then that would be an indication that they will pick up Davis' option for 2026.
On the one hand, $13 million in 2026 might seem like a lot for someone like Davis, who plays just 40% of the snaps. And this draft is deep with defensive tackles, especially in the first two rounds.
So the Eagles could draft a defensive tackle who can fit into the rotation this season with All-Pro Jalen Carter, Davis and Moro Ojomo. Then that draftee can take on a bigger role in 2026 as Davis heads to free agency.
On the other hand, Davis' play improved greatly as last season went on. And Davis was a force in the postseason, sacking Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl.
As for the $13 million salary in 2026, consider that the Eagles just lost fellow defensive tackle Milton Williams to the New England Patriots in free agency on a contract that is double that, $26 million, in average annual value.
So, Davis' fifth-year option could be a relative bargain. Keep in mind that Carter's next contract − he'll be eligible for an extension after the 2025 season − will most likely dwarf Williams', let alone Davis' fifth-year option.
But Carter's extension wouldn't take effect until 2028. That means the Eagles could pick up Davis' option for 2026, then let him leave in free agency while saving their money for Carter.
