Overview
- The Eagles, which announced the decisions Monday, locked in 2027 option years for both 2023 first-rounders.
- Jalen Carter’s option projects to about $27.1 million and Nolan Smith’s to about $13.7 million, based on CBA tiers tracked by OverTheCap, with both salaries fully guaranteed.
- Carter is a two-time Pro Bowler who had procedures on both shoulders in December, while Smith missed time in 2025 after a triceps injury.
- The choices reflect Howie Roseman’s push to retain homegrown defenders, following Jordan Davis’s extension, as cap executive Bryce Johnston leaves for a role in Atlanta.
- Under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement, teams can add a fifth season for first-round picks after three years, and the salary becomes guaranteed once the option is exercised.