Philadelphia, PA – June 25, 2025
He may be wearing purple next season, but his heart still bleeds midnight green.
In a heartfelt return to the Philly area, one former defensive contributor for the Eagles opened up about the team that took a chance on him when no one else would — and changed his life in the process. His name wouldn’t show up on Pro Bowl rosters or headline MVP talks, but his presence during the Super Bowl LIX run was deeply felt. And now, months after signing a new deal elsewhere, he’s not hiding his gratitude.
That player is Isaiah Rodgers.
After being suspended for gambling violations and released by the Colts, Rodgers was left without a team — until the Eagles signed him, fully knowing he couldn’t play a single down in 2023. What followed was a quiet but meaningful comeback. Rodgers returned in 2024, played 36% of the team’s defensive snaps, appeared in 15 games, and helped the Eagles win it all. “It’s a team that revamped my career, bringing me back to life,” he said. “So, I’ll never look at a situation like I’m a Viking now and I’ll never deal with you guys again. I’ll still be around as much as I can.”
Rodgers recently inked a two-year, $15 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings — including $8 million guaranteed — but the love for Philly remains strong. He received a standing ovation during the DeVonta Smith Celebrity Softball Game in Allentown and still engages with Eagles fans daily online. “Those are my guys,” Rodgers said about GM Howie Roseman, team security chief Dom DiSandro, and owner Jeffrey Lurie. “We’re all still good. There’s no bad blood.”
He also confirmed he’s already received his Super Bowl ring and mentioned a ceremony will be held on July 18 — potentially breaking news, as the Eagles haven’t officially announced it yet. Rodgers won’t attend the banner-raising against the Cowboys on September 4, but he’ll be watching from home.
As for Week 7, it’s already circled: Eagles at Vikings. “Yeah, I got it marked on my calendar,” he smiled.
For a player who found redemption in Philly and never forgot what the city gave him, this isn’t just a farewell — it’s a love letter in cleats. Stay tuned to ESPN.
