Eagles bolster secondary with Michael Carter II trade
The Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move on Wednesday, enhancing their cornerback depth by acquiring Michael Carter II from the New York Jets. In return, the Eagles sent wide receiver John Metchie III and a sixth-round pick in the 2027 draft to New York, along with receiving a seventh-round draft pick in the same year.
Addressing Cornerback Needs
Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman has often highlighted the cornerback position as a strength, largely due to the emergence of young talents like Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. However, the team has experienced challenges in their nickel packages, particularly on the outside. Veteran Adoree’ Jackson and third-year player Kelee Ringo have shown inconsistency, while recent addition Jakorian Bennett has been sidelined for five games due to a pec injury.
DeJean has established himself as a formidable player, excelling in both outside and slot roles. His versatility has proven valuable, but the Eagles needed further support to solidify their secondary options.
Carter’s Profile and Potential
Michael Carter II, a fifth-round selection from Duke in the 2021 NFL Draft, quickly made a name for himself. He became the NFL’s highest-paid slot cornerback following a three-year, $30.75 million extension with the Jets in 2024. Currently under contract through 2027 with a total of $20.3 million, only $2.7 million of that is guaranteed. To facilitate the trade, Carter reportedly waived $5 million in injury guarantees for the 2026 season.
Despite his financial success, Carter has faced injury challenges over the past two years. In 2024, he missed four games due to a back injury, and this season, he has been sidelined for three games with a concussion. Although he returned to action against the Cincinnati Bengals, he managed to play only six defensive snaps, falling behind Jarvis Brownlee Jr. in the slot rotation.
Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 183 pounds, Carter has primarily operated as a slot cornerback throughout his career. In 65 games, he has tallied two interceptions, 26 pass breakups, 10 tackles for loss, and three fumble recoveries.
Strategic Flexibility for the Eagles
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio recently addressed the idea of moving DeJean to the outside full-time. “When you have one of the better players at a certain position, you hate to take a really good player and potentially diminish his impact elsewhere,” Fangio noted. However, the addition of Carter could provide Fangio with the flexibility to adjust his defensive schemes based on opponents and their receiving strengths.
Carter is often compared to Avonte Maddox, a former Eagles defensive back known for his ability to play both the slot and safety positions while also stepping outside when necessary. The key for Carter will be earning Fangio’s trust, which could significantly enhance the Eagles’ secondary options.
Metchie’s Departure and Impact
John Metchie’s trade marks a notable shift for the Eagles. Acquired earlier from the Houston Texans in exchange for tight end Harrison Bryant and a 2026 sixth-round pick, Metchie has struggled to find his footing in a crowded receiver room led by A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Jahan Dotson. With only four receptions for 18 yards this season, Metchie’s opportunities dwindled further when undrafted rookie Darius Cooper returned from injured reserve, taking on key blocking responsibilities in 13 personnel sets.
As the Eagles look to enhance their defensive capabilities, the addition of Michael Carter II not only strengthens their secondary but also opens up new strategic possibilities for defensive alignments. This trade exemplifies the Eagles’ commitment to bolstering their roster as they aim for success in the competitive landscape of the NFL.
