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Eagles add defensive line depth by signing A.J. Epenesa
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- Eagles add defensive line depth by signing A.J. Epenesa
The Philadelphia Eagles made another round of roster moves, adding veteran depth on both lines while moving on from two linebackers.
Philadelphia signed defensive end A.J. Epenesa and guard Michael Jordan, while waiving linebackers Chandler Martin and Isiah King. The moves give the Eagles another experienced pass-rush option and additional interior offensive line depth as the roster continues to take shape before training camp.
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Epenesa is the most notable addition because of his pedigree and potential fit in Vic Fangio's defense. A former second-round pick, Epenesa gives the Eagles another edge defender with size, length and NFL experience. Philadelphia has continued to reshape its pass-rush group around Jonathan Greenard , Jalyx Hunt , Nolan Smith , Arnold Ebiketie , Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and several developmental options, and Epenesa adds another veteran to a competition that will be one of the most important areas to watch this summer.
The Eagles' defensive front remains one of the roster's defining strengths, but the edge rotation is still unsettled. Smith is trying to turn pressures into more consistent production, Hunt is pushing for a larger role, Ebiketie brings pass-rush upside, and Greenard is expected to provide a proven presence off the edge. Epenesa's arrival adds another layer to that group and increases competition for snaps and roster spots.
Jordan gives Philadelphia more offensive line depth at guard, an area the Eagles traditionally prioritize. With Jeff Stoutland gone and Chris Kuper working with Sean Mannion's system, the offensive line is going through a transition in both personnel evaluation and approach. Jordan's experience gives the Eagles another interior option behind a projected starting group that includes Landon Dickerson , Cam Jurgens and Tyler Steen on the inside.
The corresponding moves came at linebacker, where Martin and King were waived. Martin had been part of a crowded linebacker room that includes Zack Baun , Jihaad Campbell , Jeremiah Trotter Jr. , Smael Mondon Jr. , Chance Campbell and Deontae Lawson . King was also competing for a depth and special teams role, but Philadelphia elected to use the roster spots on more help along the line of scrimmage.
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The moves reflect the Eagles' usual roster-building priorities. Philadelphia continues to lean into depth up front, especially with training camp approaching and competition intensifying at defensive end and offensive line. Epenesa and Jordan are not guaranteed roles, but both give the Eagles experienced players at premium positions.
For Martin and King, the timing makes the roster path more difficult. For the Eagles, the message is clear: the front office is still looking for ways to strengthen the trenches before camp begins.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles reshape roster with A.J. Epenesa, Michael Jordan signings
