The Philadelphia Eagles have made another notable decision involving their 2026 draft class.
Philadelphia released rookie edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby while continuing to reduce its roster ahead of the 53-player deadline, according to Ryan Fowler. The Eagles selected James-Newby with the 252nd overall pick in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL draft. He arrived in Philadelphia following a productive final college season at New Mexico, where he recorded nine sacks and 15 tackles for loss.
Eagles have released rookie EDGE Keyshawn James-Newby, per source.
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) August 30, 2026
James-Newby faced a difficult path to the roster from the beginning. Philadelphia entered training camp with established options Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, A.J. Epenesa and Arnold Ebiketie occupying
prominent places in the edge-rusher rotation.
An injury-filled summer made the rookie’s challenge even more difficult. James-Newby missed valuable practice and preseason time before returning late in camp. Although he showed some of the effort and pass-rushing potential that encouraged Philadelphia to draft him, he did not have enough opportunities to separate himself in a crowded position group.
His departure could strengthen undrafted rookie Joshua Weru’s case for one of the final defensive positions. Weru generated positive attention throughout the summer, but Philadelphia’s remaining roster decisions will determine whether the team protects him on the initial 53.
Because James-Newby is a rookie, he will be subject to the NFL waiver process. The Eagles could bring him back on the practice squad if he clears waivers and remains available.
That outcome would allow Philadelphia to continue developing a young pass rusher whose college production made him an intriguing late-round selection. For now, however, James-Newby’s rookie season will not begin on the Eagles’ initial active roster.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles release rookie edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby
