Beloved Eagles Star Signs One-Day Contract to Retire at 31 After Texans Release

Philadelphia, PA – September 9, 2025

The Philadelphia Eagles brought a familiar face home on Monday, as beloved defensive back Jalen Mills signed a ceremonial one-day contract to retire as an Eagle at age 31.

For fans in Philly, it was more than a transaction — it was a homecoming. Mills, once the green-haired spark of the Eagles’ secondary, became a symbol of grit, swagger, and unshakable confidence during his five years in midnight green. He wasn’t just another defensive back — he was a cult hero. Fans embraced his fearless energy so much that they gave him the nickname “Green Goblin,” a moniker that quickly became part of the Eagles’ culture.

Mills’ career began as a seventh-round pick in 2016, a long shot who quickly earned respect for his fearless mentality. By 2017, he was a starting cornerback on a defense that helped deliver the Eagles’ first Super Bowl championship, making clutch plays throughout the postseason, including on the biggest stage in Minneapolis.

Though he later transitioned to safety and had stints with the New England Patriots and Houston Texans, his heart — and his legend — always belonged to Philadelphia. Over nine NFL seasons, Mills recorded 392 tackles, 7 interceptions, and countless moments that fueled the Eagles’ relentless identity.

His time away from Philly was marked by ups and downs, including injuries and changing roles, but he never lost the confidence that made him a fan favorite. Even in Houston, fans back in Philadelphia remembered the finger wags, the energy, and the fearless trash talk that set him apart.

“Jalen Mills is part of Eagles history forever,” GM Howie Roseman said. “He represented this city with toughness and passion, and he’ll always be remembered as a champion here.”

For Eagles fans, Mills’ one-day deal is a fitting close to a journey defined by resilience, underdog spirit, and a Super Bowl ring that will shine in Philadelphia forever. His retirement at 31 marks the end of a chapter — but the Green Goblin’s legend will always echo in Lincoln Financial Field.