When training camp and the preseason arrive, the Philadelphia Eagles’ decision to bolster their defense may come to light.
Former Detroit Lions third-round selection Julian Okwara, a linebacker, has signed with Philadelphia, the organization revealed on social media on Wednesday. The agreement is a reserve future contract, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson.
Okwara, 26, played four years at Notre Dame before being selected by Detroit in the third round at No. 67 overall. He appeared in nine games over his four seasons with the Lions, including this one, during which he totaled seven tackles, two sacks, and one pass breakup.
In 2021, Okwara had a breakthrough season with the Lions. With 13 games played, a career-high, he performed a wide range of duties on the field. At the end of the season, he had 27 total tackles, 5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 1 interception, and 2 passes defensed.
Okwara has recorded nine career sacks in his career. Like the rest of the club, the Eagles’ front seven performed below expectations in the second half of the previous year. A player like Okwara might bring spark if he makes the 53-man roster, especially with Fletcher Cox and Haason Reddick possibly leaving despite Okwara’s fictitious trade request.
