Howie Roseman Masterclass: Replacing Josh Sweat without breaking the bank

The Philadelphia Eagles faced a significant challenge this offseason when standout edge rusher Josh Sweat departed for a lucrative four-year, $76.4 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals.

Rather than overpaying to retain him, general manager Howie Roseman took a calculated approach — adding two ascending pass rushers, Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari, for a fraction of Sweat’s price tag. This maneuver not only preserved cap flexibility but also infused the Eagles’ defensive front with youth and potential.

Eagles Add Azeez Ojulari at a Bargain Price

In a savvy move, Howie Roseman signed former New York Giants edge rusher Azeez Ojulari to a one-year, $4 million deal. Ojulari, just 25 years old, has showcased strong pass-rushing ability when healthy. After setting a Giants rookie record with 8.0 sacks in 2021, injuries limited his availability over the next three seasons. However, his efficiency remained undeniable — last year, he posted 6.0 sacks and 10 QB hits in just 11 games, despite playing fewer than 400 snaps.

The Eagles capitalized on Ojulari’s untapped potential at a steep discount. His market value was projected at $7.6 million annually, but Howie Roseman managed to bring him in for nearly half that figure. If he stays healthy, Ojulari could thrive alongside Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, much like Sweat and Milton Williams did before him.

Josh Uche Brings High-Upside Edge Depth

Philadelphia didn’t stop with Ojulari. Howie Roseman also inked former New England Patriots pass rusher Josh Uche to a one-year deal. Uche, 26, enjoyed a breakout 2022 campaign with 11.5 sacks and 49 pressures but struggled to find his footing after a midseason trade to Kansas City last year.

>> Buy Philly Sports Apparel from the TLL Online Shop

With Sweat gone and Brandon Graham nearing retirement, the Eagles needed cost-effective reinforcements on the edge. Uche provides just that, offering the potential to rebound under the tutelage of new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. His quick first step and ability to disrupt in passing situations make him a perfect rotational piece in Philadelphia’s front seven.

Howie Roseman’s Cost-Effective Roster Management

Rather than committing $76 million to Sweat, Roseman addressed the Eagles’ pass rush needs by signing Ojulari and Uche for a combined one-year cost far below Sweat’s annual salary. The flexibility gained from these signings allows the Eagles to allocate resources elsewhere while keeping their defensive front fresh with a deep rotation.

The Eagles have long thrived on building through the trenches, and this offseason’s moves align with that philosophy. If Ojulari and Uche reach their potential, Philadelphia could once again boast one of the most disruptive pass rush units in the league — all while avoiding a hefty financial commitment.

With these savvy additions, Roseman once again proves why he’s among the best general managers in football, turning a potential setback into an opportunity for long-term success.