Eagles Add Super Bowl Champion Cornerback Riq Woolen on One-Year Deal
The Philadelphia Eagles have bolstered their secondary with the signing of cornerback Tariq Woolen, a recent Super Bowl champion from the Seattle Seahawks. The deal is a one-year contract worth up to $15 million, marking Philadelphia’s first free-agent acquisition of a player from outside the organization in 2026. NFL.com and CBS News reported the agreement on March 10, 2026.
Woolen’s Background and Recent Success
Woolen, who will turn 27 in May, spent the past four seasons with the Seahawks, culminating in a Super Bowl victory over the Novel England Patriots. Yahoo Sports highlighted his recent championship win. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of the University of Texas San Antonio, Woolen quickly made an impact, earning a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie after tying for the league lead with six interceptions. CBS News noted his early success.
Role with the Eagles
The Eagles’ acquisition of Woolen addresses a need at the No. 2 cornerback position opposite All-Pro Quinyon Mitchell, following Adoree’ Jackson’s departure in free agency. CBS News detailed this need. Philadelphia intends to maintain All-Pro Cooper DeJean in the slot, with Woolen expected to start at outside cornerback alongside Mitchell. Kelee Ringo, Mac McWilliams, and Michael Carter II will provide depth in the secondary. CBS News confirmed the planned depth chart.
Recent Performance and Scheme Familiarity
While Woolen has demonstrated high-level play, including contributing to the Seahawks’ Super Bowl run, his performance has been inconsistent in recent seasons. He started just seven regular-season games in 2025, rotating with Joshua Jobe. NFL.com reported on his recent playing time. Notably, Woolen is familiar with aspects of the Eagles’ defensive scheme, having previously played under Eagles defensive line coach Clint Hurtt, whose scheme had Vic Fangio influences, during his rookie season with the Seahawks. NFL.com highlighted this connection.
Eagles’ Cap Situation and Other Moves
The one-year deal is structured to minimize the immediate impact on the Eagles’ cap space, utilizing void years to spread out the financial commitment. NFL.com explained the cap implications. The Eagles have also been active in other free agency moves, signing tight end Johnny Mundt and negotiating a contract with Michael Carter II to lower his cap hit. They have also seen edge rusher Jaelan Phillips depart for the Carolina Panthers, linebacker Nakobe Dean sign with the Las Vegas Raiders, and safety Reed Blankenship join the Houston Texans. CBS News provided details on these transactions.
Key Takeaways
- The Eagles have added a Super Bowl-winning cornerback in Riq Woolen on a one-year, $15 million deal.
- Woolen will compete for a starting role opposite Quinyon Mitchell.
- The signing addresses a key need in the Eagles’ secondary.
- The contract structure is cap-friendly for the Eagles.