11 hours ago 2

Meet Jacob Sykes, Eagles’ new young defensive tackle who starred for UFL’s Brahmas

The Philadelphia Eagles are adding a young defensive lineman to their 90-man roster, just in time for the start of training camp.

Per pro football writer Mike Mitchell, the Eagles are expected to sign 25-year-old defensive tackle Jacob Sykes, a former undrafted player out of Harvard who’s played two seasons with the San Antonio Brahmas of the UFL.

Per Mitchell, Sykes will become the 15th UFL player to receive an invite to an NFL training camp.

Sykes, who started nine games for the Brahmas, totaling 19 tackles and 1.5 sacks, would most likely compete for a role on Philly’s practice squad. While the Eagles’ core defensive tackle group is largely solidified entering camp — with Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Thomas Booker and rookie Ty Robinson the clubhouse leaders — it makes sense for GM Howie Roseman to add depth at the position. Byron Young and undrafted rookie Gabe Hall are the current frontrunners for practice squad spots.

Sykes signed with the Seattle Seahawks after going undrafted in 2023, but he’s yet to play a real NFL snap. He’s got decent size at 6-foot-3, 282 pounds, but his superpower could end up being his football smarts. Sykes played three seasons at Harvard, and at Rockhurst High School in Kansas City, he won a state history competition and qualified for multiple state math competitions.

The Eagles hosted three defensive tackles this week, and Sykes reportedly impressed. He has a connection to Philly’s current coaching staff, as he previously worked with Eagles defensive line coach Clint Hurtt in Seattle, per team insider Anthony DiBona.

Added DiBona: “Sykes showcased his closing speed and versatility on the edge in 2024” with the Brahmas.