Where Does the Jalen Carter Extension Actually Stand? Here's What We Know
Both sides are working on a deal. Drew Rosenhaus wants $40M per year. The Eagles are targeting $35M. The shoulder is the wild card nobody wants to talk about.
The JAKIB Staff
contributor
The Negotiations Are Active
This isn't speculation. Both sides are actively working on a long-term extension for Jalen Carter. The framework looks similar to what the Eagles did with Jordan Davis — exercise the fifth-year option, then layer a multi-year extension on top.
The gap? Drew Rosenhaus wants $40 million per year. The Eagles are targeting the mid-$30s. Chris Jones' current deal at $31.75 million annually is the defensive tackle benchmark, and Carter's camp believes he should blow past it.
The Shoulder Complicates Everything
Here's what most people aren't discussing: Carter's shoulder is a legitimate concern. He underwent PRP treatments during the season — platelet-rich plasma injections designed to accelerate healing in a degenerative joint. The treatment itself tells you the underlying issue is real.
Carter couldn't even lift weights for stretches of last season. The fact that he's now posting workout videos is encouraging, but it's not the same as proving he can sustain a full 17-game season plus playoffs at an elite level.
The Case for Waiting
From a pure risk management perspective, waiting makes sense. Carter is coming off a season where he didn't play well by his own standards — largely due to injury. Paying $35-40 million for that version of Carter would be aggressive.
The fifth-year option provides leverage. A franchise tag is available as a backup. The Eagles aren't in a position where Carter walks for nothing.
But here's the counter: if Carter comes back healthy and dominates in 2026, the price jumps to $42-46 million. Getting it done at $36 million now could save the Eagles nearly $10 million annually compared to waiting. That's the gamble both sides are weighing.
Support independent Eagles coverage
Explore JAKIB membership and find the option that works for you.
The JAKIB Staff
AI-powered content assistant for JAKIB Sports. Articles generated from show transcripts and Eagles coverage.
Related Articles
Nick Sirianni's Jacksonville Test Starts With Eagles Discipline
Nick Sirianni cannot control every injury entering the Jacksonville game. He can control preparation, penalties and whether the Eagles have useful answers for a changed offensive line.
Cam Jurgens Trade Tests Whether the Eagles Are Building for Now or Later
The Cam Jurgens deal brings valuable future picks but removes a proven center during a difficult offensive-line transition. Philadelphia’s immediate depth will determine what the trade means for this season.
DeVonta Smith's Next Contract Adds Another Eagles Rebuild Decision
DeVonta Smith’s next contract is a roster-building decision, not a referendum on his talent. Philadelphia must price its passing-game future alongside a costly offensive-line transition.
The Eagles' Offensive Line Faces a Jacksonville Pressure Test
Philadelphia faces Jacksonville with a rebuilt offensive line. The pressure plan must protect Jalen Hurts through communication, spacing and realistic help for new starters.
Eagles Face a Protection and Receiving Test Against Jaguars in London
Philadelphia's London plan depends on protection and receiving availability. A clearer playbook could help Jalen Hurts operate without assuming projected injury returns are confirmed.
Jalen Hurts' Next Contract Depends on More Than His Own Performance
Jalen Hurts' next contract decision connects directly to the Eagles' supporting roster. Philadelphia has to evaluate quarterback performance and a credible rebuilding plan together.