Philadelphia, PA – October 12, 2025

The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly in the final stages of negotiating a trade with the Buffalo Bills to acquire edge rusher Michael Hoecht, a former standout defender, who is in the final year of a one-year, $2.985 million contract, according to league sources. The trade is pending a medical evaluation expected to take place early next week.

Eagles receive: EDGE Michael Hoecht, 2027 sixth-round pick
Bills receive: 2026 fifth-round pick

The move comes after Michael Hoecht’s challenging tenure with the Bills, marked by a limited role in the 2025 season due to a crowded defensive line rotation. Hoecht, who has been a rotational player since signing with Buffalo, expressed growing dissatisfaction with his situation. Sources close to the team indicate that Hoecht felt underutilized, particularly in pass-rush situations, due to the Bills’ depth at the position. The Bills, looking to clear roster space and gain draft capital, have been open to moving on from the talented but underutilized edge rusher.

Hoecht’s limited snaps, among the lowest for a Bills defender in recent years, have sidelined him for much of the 2025 season. However, with Buffalo prioritizing younger talent and roster flexibility, the team has reportedly decided to part ways with Hoecht, paving the way for trade discussions with the Eagles.

The Philadelphia Eagles, in urgent need of bolstering their pass rush, see Hoecht as a high-motor, versatile defender who could complement Bryce Huff’s explosive edge presence and rotate with Josh Sweat and Nolan Smith. Hoecht is expected to slot in as a key situational rusher—potentially a DE2/DE3 role opposite Huff—giving the Eagles fresh juice on third downs and in NASCAR fronts. The organization is conducting a thorough medical evaluation to ensure Hoecht is physically ready to contribute following his reduced playing time.

If the trade is finalized, Hoecht’s arrival in Philadelphia could mark a fresh start for the 27-year-old defender, who earned recognition as a breakout player with the Los Angeles Rams before joining Buffalo. Eagles fans and analysts are eager to see if Hoecht can recapture his Rams-era spark and help stabilize a pass rush that has struggled to finish plays in critical moments.