Philadelphia, PA – June 25, 2025
A former Philadelphia Eagles starter has issued a candid warning to today’s generation of players, encouraging them to carefully consider the true cost of leaving a championship-caliber team for a bigger paycheck. His words, drawn from personal experience, have sparked renewed discussion among Eagles fans across social media and team circles.
The message comes at a time when several young defenders in Philadelphia are nearing key contract decisions. While outside offers and short-term gains can be tempting, this veteran believes there’s something far more valuable than just numbers on paper: culture, chemistry, and legacy.
That veteran is Jordan Hicks, who left the Eagles in 2019 to sign a four-year, $36 million contract with the Arizona Cardinals. Reflecting on his decision during a recent podcast appearance, Hicks didn’t hold back: “My biggest mistake was leaving the Eagles for a weaker club with a higher salary. When you come from an elite team, it’s difficult to fit in with a lesser one. So, think twice before pushing for a raise, as a bigger salary with a weaker team might soon lower your value.”
Hicks had established himself as one of the smartest linebackers in the league during his time in Philadelphia. Known for his pre-snap reads and ability to lead the defense, he was a key part of the core that helped set the stage for the Eagles' Super Bowl run—even though injuries sidelined him late in the 2017 season.
After joining the Cardinals, Hicks initially posted strong tackle numbers, but soon found himself lost in a rotating door of defensive schemes and coaches. By 2022, he was released and has since bounced between roles with the Vikings and Browns, never quite regaining the impact or identity he had in Philadelphia.
General manager Howie Roseman acknowledged the weight of Hicks’ experience: “Jordan was one of the smartest defenders we had. His story is a reminder that what we’re building here isn’t just about contracts—it’s about consistency and belief.”
The timing of Hicks’ remarks is especially relevant for players like Nakobe Dean and Sydney Brown, both of whom are progressing through crucial years of their rookie deals. As the team weighs long-term priorities with $20+ million in cap space, Hicks’ voice becomes part of a bigger message from within: loyalty to the system that developed you might be worth more than a market offer elsewhere.
One fan on X captured the sentiment best: “Jordan Hicks may not have lifted the Lombardi with us, but his words hit like a champion.”
As the Eagles prepare for another run, the question now lingers inside the locker room: will today’s rising stars learn from yesterday’s regrets?
Stay tuned to ESPN!
