In a story that epitomizes the grind and glory of professional football, Jacob Sykes, a tenacious defensive tackle from the San Antonio Brahmas, has turned heads and defied odds to secure a contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. Sources confirmed to Pro Football Newsroom—with Mike Mitchell breaking the news—that Sykes’ standout performance in the United Football League (UFL) has earned him a coveted spot in the NFL, a dream come true for the former UCLA standout.
Sykes’ journey to this moment has been anything but ordinary. After signing with the Brahmas as an offseason addition ahead of the 2024 season, he initially served as a rotational player. But his relentless work ethic and raw talent couldn’t be contained. By the end of the year, Sykes had clawed his way into a starting role, appearing in three games and racking up 11 tackles, one sack, and five defensive stops. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses hinted at the potential that was yet to fully unfold.
Per league sources: The Philadelphia Eagles are expected to sign DT Jacob Sykes today. That would make him the 15th UFL player signed by an NFL team.
As NFL teams start training camp league wide. Multiple players from @TheUFL have received workouts in recent days.
Sykes… https://t.co/aCl8PZx1MT
— Mike Mitchell (@ByMikeMitchell) July 22, 2025
This past UFL season, Sykes elevated his game to new heights. Starting eight of the Brahmas’ 10 games, he became a cornerstone of San Antonio’s defensive front, amassing an impressive 19 tackles, two sacks, and six defensive stops. His commanding presence on the field made him a force to be reckoned with, catching the attention of NFL scouts searching for untapped talent.
On Monday, Sykes’ hard work paid off in a big way. He was one of three defensive tackles invited to try out with the Philadelphia Eagles, and his performance left no doubt—he was NFL material. The Eagles, known for mining spring football leagues for hidden gems (having previously signed Pittsburgh Maulers DT Olive Sagapolu), saw something special in Sykes. His successful workout sealed the deal, earning him a contract and a chance to shine on the NFL stage.
DO NOT MESS WITH JACOB SYKES! 😤
He gets us our first sack of the day. #TorosUnidos pic.twitter.com/9gccrV590B
— San Antonio Brahmas (@XFLBrahmas) April 14, 2024
This isn’t Sykes’ first brush with the NFL. In 2023, he spent time with the Seattle Seahawks, where he recorded six tackles during the preseason. Though his time in Seattle was brief, it gave him a taste of the big leagues and fueled his determination to return. Now, with the Eagles, Sykes is poised to make an even bigger impact.
Jacob Sykes swin move is nice pic.twitter.com/CDYUBdt2RX
— Rapinas do Mar (Cortes) (@cortesrapinas) August 20, 2023
Sykes’ rise is a testament to the UFL’s growing reputation as a launchpad for NFL talent. As the 15th UFL player—and the second Brahma—to sign an NFL contract this year, his story underscores the league’s role in providing a national platform for players to showcase their skills. Without the UFL, who knows if Sykes’ journey from a rotational player to an NFL hopeful would have been possible?
From UCLA to the UFL and now knocking on the door of the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacob Sykes is living proof that hard work, resilience, and a never-give-up attitude can turn a “nobody” into a star. As he steps onto the NFL stage, all eyes will be on this rising talent to see how far he can go.