Eagles Decline G Kenyon Green’s Fifth-Year Option

Kenyon Green has not developed as hoped in the NFL, as illustrated by the fact he has already been traded. The former Texans guard now finds himself on track for 2026 free agency, to no surprise.

The Eagles are declining Green’s fifth-year option, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Exercising it would have locked Philadelphia into a $16.69MM commitment for the 2026 season, which would not be feasible given his performances to date. The former No. 15 pick missed all of the 2023 season due to a shoulder injury and has not met expectations when on the field.

Green made 14 starts during his rookie season, a year in which he was charged by PFF with four sacks and 47 pressures allowed. Upon returning from the injury in 2024, he remained a key figure on Houston’s offensive line (nine starts in 12 games). Once again, however, pass protection was an issue; Green was one of several interior blockers who struggled during the year and contributed to the Texans’ underwhelming offensive performance. Part of the team’s renovations up front included the decision to move on from Green.

The Texas A&M product was traded to the Eagles in March as part of a package which saw safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson head to Houston. Green will compete for a starting spot at right guard after seeing Mekhi Becton thrive in that role in 2024. The former Jets first-rounder parlayed his one-and-done Eagles campaign into a two-year, $20MM pact with the Chargers. It would certainly be notable if that feat were to be repeated in Green’s case during the coming campaign.

At a minimum, the 24-year-old will give the defending Super Bowl champions depth along the interior of the offensive line. Tyler Steen represents a candidate to win out the RG gig over Green, especially considering how late in the draft Philadelphia added rookies up front. Remaining healthy will be a key target for Green, and he could help his market value with a strong showing in Philadelphia.

In the event a first-team role proves to be elusive, though, free agency will no doubt be limited next spring. The Eagles now have four offensive linemen attached to lucrative deals, and another major commitment would come as a surprise if it were made in Green or another blocker.