The Eagles have added depth to their wing forward group. The team announced Wednesday that Julian Okwara has signed a reserve/future contract. Okwara previously spent his four-year career with the Lions, starting a total of four games over the past three seasons. His time in Detroit allowed him to team up with his brother Romeo Okwara, but he saw a limited role in 2023.
Julian was released last month to make room for IR activation James Houston. He ended up on Detroit’s practice squad when the team’s postseason ended, but he did not receive a futures contract. As a result, Okwara was free to sign with any team and he joined the Eagles. Philadelphia’s cornerback situation is currently in flux, thanks in large part to the team’s decision to allow Haason Reddick to seek a trade.
The two-time Pro Bowler has made it clear that he wants to extend his contract with the Eagles through 2024, but it will be interesting to see if the team and player can come to an agreement on that. Defensive end Brandon Graham hits free agency at the same time. The franchise leader in passing — and a member of Philadelphia’s Core Four — plans to play at least one more season. While he would likely only sign with the Eagles if it works out this spring, the team currently has several question marks.
Okwara will look to carve out a depth role with the likes of Josh Sweat and 2023 first-round pick Nolan Smith. Okwara had a career-high five sacks and a 40% rushing share in 2021. That showed considerable potential given the situation, but the 26-year-old has only recorded four sacks over the past two seasons. His playing time decreased significantly in both years, playing in just nine games during the 2023 campaign. In the offseason, Okwara will try to earn a spot on the 53-man Eagles squad in search of clarity in the pass rush department.
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