Jalen Carter agreed to a four-year contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles worth $152 million, including $106 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history [1, 2, 3]. The deal, signed in late July 2026, runs through the 2031 NFL season and carries an average annual value of roughly $38 million [1, 2, 3].
Carter, 25, was drafted ninth overall by the Eagles in the 2023 NFL Draft [1, 2, 3]. Across his first three seasons, he recorded 108 tackles and 13.5 quarterback sacks [1, 2]. He earned back-to-back Pro Bowl selections over the last two seasons [1, 2, 3].
In the 2025 season, Carter played 11 games after undergoing shoulder surgery but still posted 33 tackles, 3 sacks, 12 quarterback hits, and 7 passes defensed [2, 3]. He was part of the Eagles' Super Bowl LIX-winning team that season [3]. However, he was ejected from the opener for spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott [1, 3].
Before entering the NFL, Carter pleaded no contest to misdemeanors related to a fatal street racing incident but avoided jail time [1].
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio praised Carter, saying, "He disrupts the game, he’s smart, and he plays hard. There aren’t many like him out there and I’m glad he’s on our side." [1]
Carter's extension surpassed the previous highest-paid defensive tackle contract held by Tennessee Titans' Jeffery Simmons, who signed a three-year, $105.8 million deal [2, 3]. The Eagles also have Jordan Davis, who ranks among the top six highest-paid defensive tackles with a three-year, $78 million contract [2].
Carter's agent team for the negotiation comprised Drew and Jason Rosenhaus [3].
The contract solidifies Carter's role with the Eagles through the 2031 season, marking a major commitment from the franchise to the defensive star [2, 3].
