The Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2025 NFL Draft in an interesting position as they look to defend their Super Bowl 59 title. Despite their championship success, the team has lost key players due to free agency and retirement. While they’ve retained some veterans and brought in new talent, there’s still work to be done to sustain a championship-caliber roster. One bold move that general manager Howie Roseman should consider is trading for former No. 1 overall pick Travon Walker to bolster the defensive front.
Teams often hesitate to commit long-term to first-overall edge rushers who don’t immediately become superstars like Myles Garrett. While Walker has been highly productive, he isn’t as dominant as his Jaguars teammate Josh Hines-Allen, who signed a five-year, $150 million extension in 2024. If Walker isn’t willing to accept a significantly lower contract, Jacksonville might consider trading him while his value remains high.
Walker was a top prospect heading into the 2022 NFL Draft, skyrocketing up draft boards due to his elite athleticism. At 272 pounds, he ran a 4.51-second 40-yard dash and posted a 35.5-inch vertical jump. That explosiveness has translated into on-field success, as he has recorded consecutive double-digit sack seasons. His 2024 campaign was his best yet, finishing with 61 tackles, 15 quarterback hits, and 13 tackles for loss over 17 games.
Adding Walker to the Eagles’ defense would reunite him with several former Georgia teammates, fostering instant chemistry. While Pro Football Focus has rated him as a stronger run defender than pure pass rusher in two of the past three seasons, playing alongside defensive tackle Jalen Carter could allow him to thrive. Carter’s presence has already benefited players like Nolan Smith and Josh Sweat, and Walker could experience similar advantages.
Though Walker’s contract isn’t as cost-effective as most rookie deals, it remains manageable. He is set to earn $11.9 million in 2024, with a fifth-year option worth $14.75 million—a reasonable price for a productive edge rusher with room to grow.
With Josh Sweat departing in free agency and Brandon Graham retiring, the Eagles must reinforce their pass rush. While they’ve added Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari, acquiring Walker could be the move that keeps their defense elite. His versatility—playing both as an outside linebacker and with his hand in the dirt—makes him an ideal fit for Philadelphia’s defensive scheme.
Walker’s combination of proven production, untapped potential, and Georgia connections makes him an excellent target for Roseman. For a team focused on defending its championship, making an aggressive move for a former No. 1 pick could provide a crucial defensive boost.