The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft as they aim to rebuild their defense following the departure of several key players after their Super Bowl-winning season. Since free agency began, the team has seen multiple defensive contributors sign with other franchises.
Among the departures, defensive end Josh Sweat joined the Arizona Cardinals, defensive tackle Milton Williams signed with the New England Patriots, and safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was traded to the Houston Texans. The secondary also took a hit with cornerbacks Darius Slay and Isaiah Rodgers moving to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings, respectively. Additionally, linebacker Oren Burks signed with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Despite these losses, the Eagles managed to retain All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun on a lucrative three-year, $51 million contract. They also signed several players to one-year deals, including cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and pass rushers Azeez Ojulari and Joshua Uche. Moving forward, Philadelphia must also address upcoming contract extensions for key players like defensive tackle Jalen Carter, linebacker Nolan Smith, and center Cam Jurgens.
To compensate for their defensive losses, the Eagles are expected to be aggressive in the draft, with reports suggesting they will trade up to secure a much-needed safety.
Eagles Expected to Trade Up for Safety Malaki Starks
According to The Athletic’s Brooks Kubena, Philadelphia is projected to trade with the Minnesota Vikings to move up to the 24th overall pick, targeting Georgia All-American safety Malaki Starks. The Eagles currently hold multiple future draft assets, including three third-round picks in 2026 and four fifth-round selections in 2025, making a trade feasible. Kubena reports that Philadelphia would likely send their 32nd overall pick, a fifth-round selection, and a 2026 third-round pick to complete the deal.
Starks, a standout at Georgia, was a key part of the Bulldogs’ 2022 national championship team, where he played alongside current Eagles defenders Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith. Over three seasons, he showcased his abilities with six interceptions, 17 pass breakups, and 197 total tackles. His athleticism was on full display at the NFL Combine, where he recorded a 4.50-second 40-yard dash and a 33-inch vertical jump.
NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein describes Starks as a versatile defender with strong ball skills and the athleticism to contest deep plays. While he needs improvement in route anticipation and tackling angles, his talent makes him an attractive option for Philadelphia as they seek to rebuild their secondary.
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