Eagles Bring All-Pro Superstar Back to Philly in a Trade Amid Ben VanSumeren’s Injury

Philadelphia, September 8, 2025

With linebacker Ben VanSumeren sidelined and the defense suddenly stretched thin, the Eagles are reportedly weighing a dramatic answer: a blockbuster reunion with All-Pro pass rusher Haason Reddick. In an NFC race where every early misstep can cost playoff leverage, a move like this could recalibrate Philadelphia’s September outlook overnight.

Down in Tampa Bay, the situation is fluid. Reddick signed a one-year, $14 million deal with the Buccaneers this spring after a rocky 2024 with the Jets, but speculation is growing that contenders are circling. For the Eagles, the timing and fit are undeniable: they need a proven linebacker to stabilize the front seven, and Reddick already knows Vic Fangio’s system and the Philly culture.

From a football perspective, the upside is obvious. The Reddick × Eagles reunion would instantly juice the pass rush, freeing Josh Sweat, Jalen Carter, and Jordan Davis while giving Nakobe Dean a veteran anchor at the second level.

During his two seasons in Philadelphia (2022–2023), Reddick stacked up 27 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, and 3 recoveries, ranking among the league’s most disruptive defenders. His ability to bend the edge, collapse pockets, and hunt quarterbacks in the biggest games helped carry Philly to Super Bowl LVII.

With VanSumeren out, his gravity alone would change protections: quicker pressures, more one-on-ones inside, and tighter coverage shells that keep quarterbacks off balance.

Risks exist, and the Eagles know it. Tampa Bay would demand meaningful compensation, and the numbers must align. Reddick’s current deal runs just one season, but Philadelphia would need to juggle cap space through void years or salary offsets to make it work.

Still, Howie Roseman has built a reputation on bold strokes. A package of mid-round picks with performance escalators tied to playoff wins — or a cap-sharing setup with Tampa retaining part of Reddick’s salary — could grease the wheels.

Emotionally, this would be more than a trade. It would be a homecoming. Reddick is a Camden, NJ native, a Pro Bowler twice in midnight green, and still beloved in Philadelphia for his relentless motor. Bringing him back would electrify Lincoln Financial Field, reminding the NFC that Philly’s championship window remains wide open.

The Eagles aren’t chasing headlines. They’re chasing wins, drives, and January leverage. And if the numbers add up, a reunion with Haason Reddick amid VanSumeren’s absence could be the decisive early move that keeps Philadelphia’s season on script — and their Super Bowl dreams alive.