Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis has undergone a significant physical transformation, shedding 26 pounds between last season’s end and the start of training camp. This notable change is reshaping his performance on the field and holds implications for the team’s defensive strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Eagles expect Davis’ weight loss to enhance his stamina and versatility, crucial as he steps into a larger role on a young defense.
The Motivation Behind Jordan Davis’ Weight Loss Journey
Now 25 years old, Davis recognizes the increased responsibility he carries as a more seasoned player in the Eagles organization. After entering the NFL as a first-round draft pick four years ago, Davis has matured both physically and mentally, realizing the importance of fitness not just for football but for his long-term health. His decision to cut back on sugary drinks and unnecessary calories stemmed from a growing awareness that maintaining weight through sheer effort alone—like running off excess pounds—becomes less effective with age.
“I wanted to make the changes because it’s absolutely necessary, like cutting out the extra sugars, cutting out the juice. You can’t drink your calories,”
Davis said.
“I’m starting to understand that and how detrimental that is. I’m getting older. I can’t just go out and run a couple miles and the weight sheds off me. It takes more effort to get in that mode.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
For Davis, turning 25 was a pivotal moment that reinforced the need for discipline and consistency both on and off the field. He is focused on optimizing his physical condition so he can fulfill the demands of a more expansive and critical role on the Eagles’ defense.
Increased Expectations and Leadership on a Young Defense
Davis is no longer just a young prospect; as one of the more experienced players on Philadelphia’s defense, he faces heightened expectations. With veterans Fletcher Cox and Milton Williams no longer on the roster, Davis is tasked with stepping up as both a leader and a key defensive contributor. His weight loss aligns with his growing maturity and desire to be an every-down player who impacts every facet of the game.
“Doing that and being in the best shape of my life so I can provide for the team and be the best player I can be, it’s what I had to do,”
he stated.
“(I’m) understanding that my role is bigger and what’s expected of me is greater and so on. Obviously, you have to change and adapt. I’m just glad I’m at this place now and I can hit the ground running.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
He acknowledged the collective success of the young Eagles defense in the previous season—and the work it took to be the NFL’s best unit—which motivates him now to elevate his performance. Davis wants to contribute more than just traditional run-stopping; he aims to be a multifaceted force on the line.
“I just want to be the best for the team but not just the team but for my brothers.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
What This Slimmer Jordan Davis Means for the Eagles’ Defensive Line
Davis entered the NFL with a reputation as a dominant, physical presence who mainly excelled at stopping the run. His snap counts tell a story of gradual development: 26.4% of defensive snaps in 2022, growing to 44.7% in 2023, then slightly dipping to 37.1%. Despite fluctuating time on the field, Davis has refined his technique with coaches Vic Fangio and Clint Hurtt, expanding his impact beyond early downs.
This past season, he began showing promise as a pass rusher, collecting three quarterback pressures—including a sack—in limited opportunities during the NFC Championship game. He also recorded a sack in Super Bowl LIX while rushing the passer on just nine snaps, proving his ability to make significant plays in critical moments.
As the team looks ahead, they expect Davis to start alongside fellow former Georgia teammate Jalen Carter, who rarely comes off the field. Depth behind them includes Moro Ojomo, rookie Ty Robinson, and Thomas Booker, giving the Eagles a strong rotation on the interior line ready to pressure opponents on every down.
“I do want to be on the field as much as I can and whatever is required or needed of me, I want to be on the field,”
Davis said.
“I don’t want to be a player that comes off every second and long, every third down. I want to be able to make those plays and show the people what I’m capable of because being a run stopper, a one-trick pony, being a run stopper, an anchor, that’s cool and all, but I want to be able to do more.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
He emphasized his desire to be a constant presence rather than a situational player, expressing readiness to meet the demands for all defensive scenarios. This versatility is key to the Eagles’ defensive strategy, which requires strong interior pressure in both running and passing situations.
“I don’t want to be a guy just sitting on the shelf for third down or second and long. I want to provide and play and for however long that is needed I want to make sure I’m ready for what’s expected.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
Addressing Concerns About Power Loss Following Weight Reduction
While shedding 26 pounds has made Davis leaner and more agile, some worry that losing weight might reduce the raw power essential to his role as a defensive tackle. Maintaining strength to dominate blockers and anchor the defensive line is critical. However, Davis insists his power has not diminished; instead, his body feels stronger and more technical.
“The power never left. If anything, I feel like I got stronger over the offseason,”
Davis said.
“It’s causing me to be more technical, too, because at the lighter weight you can’t just bullshit around, and be like I’m 350, they ain’t gonna move me, but it’s just kind of like, I gotta be a little bit more technical, I gotta get down, I gotta make sure I stay down, my arms are locked down, my palms are facing the right way.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
Davis explained that the lighter weight forces greater attention to fundamental techniques, reinforcing proper leverage and hand placement that maximize his effectiveness. He believes this refinement is a key advantage moving forward.
“Just little stuff like that. Not saying it was in the back windshield in the past but it’s just a little emphasized now.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
The results of this transformation will be evaluated once the 2025 season unfolds, but the expectation is for Davis to be a more well-rounded, every-down player. His improved conditioning should allow him to sustain presence on the field longer, increasing his overall impact.
“I’m still the same Jordan Davis, I’m still gonna be that anchor, I’m still gonna be that same player,”
he affirmed.
“But knowing that, with this new weight I can do a lot more, I can move a lot more like on passing reps. I’m gonna be expected to answer that.”
—Jordan Davis, Defensive Tackle
His optimism and readiness to embrace the challenge signal a potential breakthrough for both his career and the Eagles’ defensive front.
Looking Ahead: The Potential Impact on the Eagles’ Defense
Jordan Davis’ weight loss transformation is more than just a physical change; it represents a commitment to evolving his game and meeting the rising expectations placed on him. As he prepares to take on an increased role alongside fellow linemen Jalen Carter and others, his ability to stay on the field for more snaps and contribute as a pass rusher could significantly enhance the Eagles’ defensive schemes.
With the departure of veteran anchors like Fletcher Cox and Milton Williams, the defense leans heavily on players like Davis to anchor the interior line. His combination of power, improved agility, and technical discipline could turn him into a vital asset for Philadelphia, helping the team maintain its status as one of the NFL’s top defensive units.
As the Eagles begin training camp and look toward the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Davis to see how his weight loss transformation translates on the field. If he meets the expectations outlined by coaches and teammates, it will mark a major milestone not only for his personal development but also for the defensive future of the team.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened with Jordan Davis?
A. On November 23, 2012, Jordan Davis, a 17-year-old Black teenager, was shot and killed at a gas station in Jacksonville, Florida. Michael David Dunn, a 45-year-old white software developer, committed the murder after a disagreement with Davis and his three friends over their loud music.
Q. When did Jordan Davis come out?
A. Davis released his first song, “Singles You Up,” in the middle of 2017.