In a twist of fate, the Philadelphia Eagles have reaped long-term benefits from trading away quarterback Carson Wentz. Once thought to be the Eagles’ future, the 2017 Super Bowl-winning QB’s departure ultimately became one of the most influential trades in the franchise’s recent history. Let’s explore how General Manager Howie Roseman turned this blockbuster transaction into a treasure trove of talent.
The Initial Trade Carson Wentz to the Indianapolis Colts
In 2021, the Philadelphia Eagles sent Wentz to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for a 2021 third-round pick and a 2022 first-round pick. Roseman, known for his creativity and foresight, leveraged these draft assets into much more than expected. With each subsequent transaction, he transformed those picks into a formidable core of players, setting up the Eagles as Super Bowl contenders for years to come.
Howie Roseman pulled off a fleece with the Eagles’ trade of Carson Wentz, which led to landing AJ Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jalen Carter, and Cooper DeJean. 🪄 pic.twitter.com/zJcym0g7ks
— JAKIB Sports (@JAKIBSports) April 30, 2024
How Howie Roseman Spun the Draft Picks into Gold
- DeVonta Smith (WR):
Using the third-round pick from the Indianapolis Colts and his first-rounder, Roseman moved up with the Dallas Cowboys to select wide receiver DeVonta Smith. Smith has already delivered two consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, cementing himself as a premier target.
- A.J. Brown (WR):
Roseman then traded the 2022 first-round pick acquired from the Colts to the New Orleans Saints, which enabled him to gather enough draft capital to secure All-Pro wide receiver A.J. Brown. Since joining the Eagles, Brown has consistently exceeded expectations, making 88 or more catches and over 1,400 yards each season. - Jalen Carter (DT):
The 2023 first-round pick from the Saints was used to trade up to No. 9 overall, allowing the Eagles to select defensive tackle Jalen Carter. Carter immediately made an impact as a rookie, recording six sacks and 50 pressures. - Drafting Young Stars in 2024:
In 2024, Roseman traded a second-round pick received from the Saints and several others to the Washington Commanders, gaining a set of picks that brought in cornerback Cooper DeJean, edge-rusher Jalyx Hunt, running back Will Shipley, and linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Philadelphia Eagles Carson Wentz Trade Success
In just three years, the Philadelphia Eagles have transformed the initial Carson Wentz trade into a cadre of young, star players, with picks still in hand for future use. Meanwhile, the Colts used their haul to acquire offensive talent like Bernhard Raimann and Alec Pierce. The Saints, similarly, capitalized on their return, drafting standout wide receiver Chris Olave.
This creative orchestration by Howie Roseman shows how a single transaction can redefine a franchise, placing Philadelphia on the path to sustained success and future Super Bowl contention.
