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Eagles Rookie DB Waived Ahead of 53-Man Roster Deadline After Refusing IR Pay Cut

August 25, 2025

What was supposed to be the final stretch of camp preparation for the Philadelphia Eagles has turned into a roster shake-up just days before the 53-man deadline. The team found itself in an unexpected standoff with a rookie who challenged the system — and lost.

The flashpoint came with the injured reserve designation, a routine NFL mechanism meant to protect roster depth and allow players recovery time. Instead of accepting the process, the rookie declined to sign the paperwork, putting the front office in a corner.

General manager Howie Roseman didn’t mince words:

“In Philadelphia, we demand commitment. If you put a paycheck above your health and above this team, then you don’t understand what it means to wear midnight green.”

The rookie in question, BJ Mayes, a defensive back signed as an undrafted free agent out of Texas A&M, had already missed preseason time with an undisclosed injury. His refusal to accept the IR designation not only jeopardized his health but also removed him from contention in an already crowded secondary room.

At Texas A&M, Mayes showed flashes — over 100 tackles, several tackles for loss, and crucial pass breakups in SEC play. His length and aggressive coverage instincts made him a developmental project worth a look. But with the roster deadline looming, his decision left little room for patience.

On the eve of cutdown day, the Eagles made it official: BJ Mayes will not be part of the initial 53-man roster.

For Mayes, who arrived in Philadelphia with quiet promise and a chance to grow into a role, it’s a swift and final end before his NFL journey could truly begin. For the Eagles, it’s a reminder of what the organization values most: discipline, sacrifice, and the willingness to put team above self.

Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."