Howie Roseman explains Jonathan Greenard trade, Eagles’ Day 2 picks

TL;DR

Howie Roseman discussed the Eagles' Day 2 draft picks, including the trade for Jonathan Greenard, emphasizing his pass-rushing capabilities. The Eagles also selected Markel Bell and Eli Stowers, expressing excitement about their potential impact.

Key points

Eagles traded for Jonathan Greenard to enhance pass rush
Markel Bell was selected for his unique size and potential
Greenard's contract won't affect future deals for other players
Eli Stowers is expected to create mismatches as a tight end

Philadelphia Eagles

TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 28: General manager Howard Roseman of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on from the sidelines during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Eagles wrapped up Day 2 of the draft pretty early by their standards, but after trading away their late-third round pick, they were done after taking Markel Bell at No. 68. Howie Roseman and Nick Sirianni met with reporters shortly afterward and were in great spirits, joking around with big smiles, as they took their seats. Later in the press conference Roseman shrugged off any suggestion that they were willing to trade away some of their picks this year due to the quality of the players available, but he explained that they just felt like the value of the players they traded for outweighed the value of the lost picks. Here’s what the GM and head coach had to say:

On the Jonathan Greenard trade

“**ROSEMAN:** In a vacuum, always looking to improve our pass rush. To improve our lines. He’s one of six guys that’s had 12 or more sacks two of the last three years. Just a really fun guy to watch, a guy we’ve been studying for a long time.” Howie went on to say that as the offseason goes on, things progress and change, and as they approached the draft, . He later gave credit to the Vikings GM for being tough but fair in their negotiations and said that the Eagles felt like it was the right move to make after finishing up Round 1 of the draft and seeing how things played out. The GM explained that they watched every game of Greenard’s from the 2025 season and it showed that the LB is a relentless player with physical tools, he can win in multiple ways, and he’s hard to block. He’s someone that the Eagles would account for when they played the Vikings, and that stood out. Howie also said that Greenard’s contract won’t affect how they approach and ’s future deals. Those were things that they talked about over the past couple weeks, but they wanted to make sure that they would still have the flexibility to sign their young defensive players.

Q&A

Why did the Eagles trade for Jonathan Greenard?

The Eagles traded for Jonathan Greenard to improve their pass rush, as he has consistently recorded 12 or more sacks in two of the last three years.

What did Howie Roseman say about Markel Bell's potential?

Howie Roseman highlighted Markel Bell's unusual size and length, noting he had zero quarterback sacks allowed in the previous season and sees significant potential in him.

How will Jonathan Greenard's contract affect other players on the Eagles?

Roseman stated that Greenard's contract will not impact their approach to future deals for players like Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith, ensuring flexibility for signing young defensive players.

What are the expectations for Eli Stowers as a tight end?

Head coach Nick Sirianni expressed excitement about Eli Stowers' unique athleticism and potential to create mismatches, emphasizing his ability to develop further in the tight end role.