DT Malik Jackson to Sign with Eagles

Malik Jackson (middle) with Calais Campbell and Dante Fowler Jr. in 2018. Photo by David Fisher/REX/Shutterstock

The Philadelphia Eagles have plugged one of their major defensive holes after agreeing to a three-year contract with defensive tackle Malik Jackson.

Jackson joins Philadelphia after spending the past three seasons as a member of the stout Jacksonville Jaguars defense. He played a key role in the interior defensive line and was named to his first career Pro Bowl in 2017 for his efforts.

He did see a slight decline in his performance last season, however. Jackson recorded 32 tackles and 3.5 sacks after posting 40 tackles and 8 sacks in the previous season.

The University of Tennessee alum started his career with the Denver Broncos, who drafted him in the 5th round of the 2012 NFL Draft.

Jackson’s work over the first 4 seasons of his career saw him sign a massive six-year, $85.5 million contract ($31.5 million guaranteed) with Jacksonville in 2016.

The Jaguars, who wanted to free up cap space in their pursuit of free agents this offseason, decided to release Jackson and allow him to become a free agent.

This was perfect for the Eagles, who needed to fill the absence created by Haloti Ngata’s departure. Jackson will immediately fill in as one of Philadelphia’s starting defensive tackles, adding quality to an already-formidable unit.

Jackson’s deal, while yet to be officially announced, is said to be for three years and up to $30 million.

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