Overview
- Philadelphia agreed to a four-year extension for Jalen Carter that will take effect in 2028 and keep him with the team through the 2031 season.
- Reports cite totals ranging from $152 million plus bonuses to as much as $160 million with roughly $106 million guaranteed, making Carter the highest-paid defensive tackle by reported guarantees.
- The Eagles will keep Carter on his rookie deal, including the 2027 fifth-year option, until the extension begins which delays the new salary cap hits for Philadelphia.
- Shortly after Carter's deal, the Cleveland Browns signed cornerback Denzel Ward to a two-year, $62.2 million extension with about $52.3 million guaranteed that restores Ward as the highest-paid cornerback.
- Together the moves signal rising market value for top defensive players, a trend that could force teams to adjust roster budgets and contract-timing for other elite defenders.