Former Eagle Joins Rival Team Known for Player Transfers
AJ Dillon has agreed to a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. He is the second former Eagles player to sign with Carolina this offseason.
Panthers’ big free-agent splurge
The Panthers also signed edge rusher Jaelan Phillips on the first day of free agency. That agreement runs four years and totals $120 million.
The deal averages about $30 million per season. Philadelphia sought to retain Phillips. The Eagles were not willing to match that annual figure.
| Player | Length | Total Value | Approx. AAV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaelan Phillips | 4 years | $120,000,000 | $30,000,000 |
The Phillips signing ranked at the top of Philadelphia’s priority list. Dillon was a much lower priority for the Eagles.
Dillon’s recent performance and availability
Dillon made limited contributions in 2025. He carried the ball 12 times for 60 yards that season.
He contributed nothing on special teams in 2025. Dillon had signed a one-year deal with Philadelphia last offseason.
He missed the entire 2024 season with a neck stinger. It remains unclear whether he lost a step.
He performed well during training camp and preseason. But he did not receive many offensive snaps.
Career totals
Across five NFL seasons, Dillon has rushed for 2,488 yards. He has scored 16 rushing touchdowns.
Depth-chart outlook and roster impact
In Carolina, Dillon projects as a potential No. 3 running back. Chuba Hubbard and Jonathan Brooks are expected ahead of him.
In Philadelphia, Tank Bigsby and Will Shipley sit behind Saquon Barkley. The Eagles felt they did not need Dillon back.
The move fits a pattern sometimes described as Former Eagle Joins Rival Team Known for Player Transfers. Fans and analysts will watch Dillon’s role closely.
Report via Filmogaz.com, based on reporting from Jordan Schultz.
