As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up to defend their Super Bowl title in the 2025 season, their roster is undergoing a transformation. While the team retained key players, they also made strategic moves in the 2025 NFL Draft to bolster their lineup. One such move was selecting defensive tackle Ty Robinson in the fourth round, a decision that could spell the end for veteran DT Thomas Booker IV.
A New Force on the Defensive Line
Ty Robinson, a 6-foot-6, 288-pound powerhouse from Nebraska, is already turning heads in Philadelphia. A five-year starter in college, Robinson showcased his versatility by lining up across the defensive front. His college stats are impressive: 134 total tackles, 26.5 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, and 12 pass deflections over 60 games. Known for his strength at the point of attack and a dynamic pass-rush arsenal—including a devastating bull rush and slick rip move—Robinson is poised to make an immediate impact.
During OTAs, Robinson earned high praise from teammate Jalen Carter, a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defensive line. After a practice session, Carter raved, “You seen him yet? That boy fire, I ain’t even gonna lie. He’s moving good. He’s a big boy. He’s here and he’s working. I think he’s going to have a big impact this season.” With such endorsements and his physical tools, Robinson looks like a steal for Philadelphia in the fourth round.
Bad News for Thomas Booker IV
While Robinson’s arrival strengthens the Eagles’ defensive front, it puts veteran Thomas Booker IV’s roster spot in serious jeopardy. Booker IV, who re-signed with the Eagles on a one-year, $1.03 million deal after the 2024 season, has been a depth piece for the team. In 2024, he appeared in 17 games with one start, recording 18 total tackles, two quarterback hits, and one sack. However, his performance was underwhelming, earning a 53.4 overall grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), ranking 126th among 219 graded defensive linemen. His pass-rush grade (54.1, 171st) and run-defense grade (51.1, 114th) further underscored his struggles.
Booker IV saw limited action, playing just 16% of defensive snaps and 7% of special teams reps. His contract reflects the Eagles’ view of him as a fringe player who must fight to secure a roster spot. With Robinson’s emergence, that fight may already be lost.
A Cutthroat Decision Looms
The Eagles’ front office faces an easy financial decision if they choose to part ways with Booker IV. Releasing him would incur no dead cap hit, making it a low-risk move to clear space for the promising rookie. Robinson’s combination of size, skill, and early praise from teammates positions him as a potential game-changer, while Booker IV’s lackluster performance makes him expendable.
As Philadelphia prepares for another championship run, the rise of Ty Robinson signals a changing of the guard on the defensive line. For Thomas Booker IV, the rookie’s $1.03 million payday may have just ended his Eagles career before it could truly take flight.