****

In the wake of Brandon Graham's season-ending triceps injury sustained during the Philadelphia Eagles' victory over the Los Angeles Rams, the team faces significant challenges in reinforcing their pass rush. Graham, a key defender for the Eagles this year, leaves a sizable void that won't be easy to fill. This setback comes as Josh Sweat also deals with injuries from the same game, and Bryce Huff goes on injured reserve, leaving the Eagles' edge rusher lineup rather thin. Currently, Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt are the only healthy edge rushers on the roster, necessitating immediate roster adjustments.

With the trade deadline passed, the Eagles are likely to consider free agent options. One notable name on the market is Jason Pierre-Paul (JPP). Turning 36 in January, JPP has expressed interest in playing this season, and boasts 94.5 career sacks. Although his recent stint with the Miami Dolphins was brief, JPP had a more productive session with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, hinting he might still contribute effectively.

Another veteran option is Melvin Ingram, who turns 35 soon. Ingram also has familiarity with Nick Sirianni from their time together at the Chargers. In his last season with the Miami Dolphins, Ingram played on 95 defensive snaps, recording 1.5 sacks.

Justin Houston, also 36 in January, had a short tenure with the Carolina Panthers in 2023 before requesting release and joining the Dolphins for a playoff game. He managed half a sack and two tackles for loss earlier this season.

Bruce Irvin, at 37, is another elder statesman available. After signing with the Dolphins, Irvin only played a limited number of defensive snaps without registering any notable stats.

For a slightly younger alternative, the Eagles might consider Rasheem Green, a 2018 third-round draft pick who averages 3.2 sacks per season. Although Green did not make the cut during this year’s Jaguars training camp, his youth provides a potential edge over older free agents.

Jannard Avery is another option worth mentioning. Despite having limited playing time since last suiting up for the Eagles in 2021, Avery, 29, could be a familiar face to bring back into the fold.

Kemoko Turay is also mentioned as an unenviable choice. Once a second-round pick by the Colts, Turay struggled to make a significant impact in subsequent stints and currently resides in the UFL, with uncertainties around his readiness to play due to injury.

Lastly, Takkarist McKinley, the No. 26 pick in the 2017 draft, is available. Despite not having a standout season with the New York Jets, McKinley offers the Eagles a slightly younger option compared to the aforementioned veterans.

Given the limited intriguing options, much will depend on how defensive coordinator Vic Fangio assesses these players. The possibility exists that the Eagles may initially promote Tarron Jackson from the practice squad while evaluating these free agents. As the Eagles navigate this adversity, the forthcoming roster changes will be keenly observed by fans and analysts alike.