Eagles Waive OL Kenyon Green: A Short-Lived Experiment Ends

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, roster moves are a constant, but some decisions still manage to capture attention and reveal deeper truths about a team’s philosophy. The latest Eagle news revolves around the Philadelphia Eagles’ decision to waive offensive lineman Kenyon Green just five months after acquiring him in a trade with the Houston Texans. This move highlights the Eagles’ unwavering commitment to excellence and their refusal to compromise on quality, even when it means cutting ties with a former first-round pick. Let’s dive into the details and implications of this decision.

Background: The Trade That Raised Eyebrows

Back in March 2025, Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman orchestrated a trade that sent safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and a sixth-round pick to the Houston Texans in exchange for Green and a fifth-round selection. At the time, the move seemed like a low-risk, high-reward gamble on a player who was once highly regarded coming out of Texas A&M. Green, drafted 15th overall in 2022, had shown promise but struggled with injuries and consistency during his time in Houston. The Eagles, known for their ability to rejuvenate offensive line careers, seemed like the perfect place for Green to rediscover his form.

Why the Eagles Moved On

1. Performance and Injury Struggles

Green’s tenure in Philadelphia was plagued by the same issues that hampered his time in Houston: injuries and underwhelming performance. He missed significant time during training camp with injuries, including a wrist issue that saw him carted off the field on August 8. When he was on the field, his performance failed to impress. Green received one of the lowest Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades in the league last season (38.6), and his reps during camp were primarily with the second- or third-team units.

2. Depth and Competition on the Offensive Line

The Eagles boast one of the deepest and most talented offensive lines in the NFL. With stalwarts like Jordan Mailata, Landon Dickerson, Cam Jurgens, Tyler Steen, and Lane Johnson, there were few opportunities for Green to carve out a role. The recent acquisition of tackle Fred Johnson from the Jacksonville Jaguars further crowded the lineup, leaving Green as the odd man out.

3. Organizational Standards

Philadelphia has built a reputation for its “next man up” mentality and its refusal to carry passengers, especially in the trenches. Green’s struggles stood out in a room where excellence is the baseline expectation. As one report noted, “Philly doesn’t keep passengers in the trenches, and Howie wasted no time moving on”.

The Bigger Picture: Lessons from the Green Experiment

The Risks of Reclamation Projects

The Eagles’ decision to waive Green serves as a reminder that not all reclamation projects pan out. While the team has had success stories like Mekhi Becton, Green’s case underscores the inherent risks of betting on players with injury histories and inconsistent performance.

Front Office Flexibility

Howie Roseman’s willingness to admit a mistake and pivot quickly is a testament to the front office’s agility. The Eagles prioritized roster flexibility and depth over sentimentality, an approach that has served them well in recent years.

Impact on the Roster

Despite Green’s departure, the Eagles managed to extract some value from the trade. The fifth-round pick acquired in the deal was later packaged in a trade for wide receiver John Metchie III, softening the blow of Green’s release.

What’s Next for Kenyon Green?

At just 24 years old, Green still has the size and raw talent that made him a first-round pick. His future in the NFL will likely depend on his ability to stay healthy and find a team willing to invest in his development. A practice squad role could be in the cards, giving him time to refine his skills away from the spotlight.

Conclusion

The Eagles’ decision to waive Kenyon Green is a classic example of their no-nonsense approach to roster construction. While the experiment didn’t yield the desired results, it underscores the team’s commitment to maintaining one of the NFL’s most formidable offensive lines. For Green, this marks another setback, but it may also serve as a catalyst for renewal elsewhere. As the Eagles continue to stack wins and build depth, this move will be remembered as a small but telling chapter in their relentless pursuit of excellence.

What do you think about the Eagles’ decision to waive Kenyon Green? Was it the right move, or should they have given him more time? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other articles for more Eagles insights and updates!