Full Breakdown
Vic Fangio Confirms Jalen Carter’s Shoulder Health Ahead of 2026 Training Camp
5/26/2026, 4:25:30 AM
Health Update on Jalen Carter
Jalen Carter missed about a month of the 2025 season after shoulder surgeries. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said his shoulders are fine, noting a good offseason of lifting, an earlier start than usual, and that he is now in a better spot.
Background: 2025 Injuries and Offseason Preparation
Shoulder problems limited Carter’s play during parts of the 2025 campaign. The Eagles began his conditioning early, allowing extra strength work that Fangio credited for his improved readiness entering summer training.
Key Figures & Groups
- Jalen Carter – No. 9 overall pick in 2023, interior defensive tackle.
- Vic Fangio – Defensive coordinator who gave the health update.
- Howie Roseman – EVP and GM handling contract decisions.
- Jordan Davis – DT with a three-year, $78 million extension averaging >$26 million, now the league’s highest-paid nose tackle.
Performance Data & Statistics
In three seasons Carter has logged 108 tackles, 25 for loss, 13.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, All-Pro honors and two Pro Bowls, marking him as a top interior defender.
Financial Implications & Contract Outlook
Carter became contract-eligible in January 2026 but has not received a long-term offer. His fifth-year option is $27.1 million, which would trigger a franchise tag of at least $32.52 million for 2028. By contrast, Jordan Davis’s three-year, $78 million extension averages over $26 million annually. Roseman stresses retaining core linemen, keeping Carter a priority for a future extension or option exercise.
Official Statements & Responses
Fangio said Carter “is in a better spot now than he was.” Roseman’s comments focus on the team’s commitment to keep foundational players on both lines, without a set timeline for a new deal. The sources do not provide a medical assessment of Carter’s shoulders, leaving his health status unverified beyond Fangio’s remarks.
Criticism, Trade Speculation & Opposition
Media reported leaked trade inquiries after Davis’s extension, suggesting Carter’s contract demands may exceed the Eagles’ willingness to pay. Analysts warn prolonged talks could push him toward a top-paid defensive-tackle market.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think his shoulders are fine,” — Vic Fangio, Defensive Coordinator
- “He's had a good offseason of lifting.” — Vic Fangio, Defensive Coordinator
- “I think he started that earlier than normal for him and you can see the difference in that regard.” — Vic Fangio, Defensive Coordinator
- “I think he's in a better spot now than he was.” — Vic Fangio, Defensive Coordinator
What's Next
The Eagles will evaluate Carter’s performance during training camp and decide whether to exercise his fifth-year option before the May 1 deadline. Contract talks are expected to intensify as the 2026 season approaches, with a potential long-term extension or franchise-tag designation likely to shape the team’s defensive strategy.
