Jason Kelce’s replacement, Cam Jurgens, will get an unexpected pay raise thanks to the NFL’s latest decision

The Philadelphia Eagles faced a daunting task in 2024 after legendary center Jason Kelce retired. However, his successor, Cam Jurgens, has exceeded all expectations, earning his first Pro Bowl selection in just his third NFL season.

Jurgens, drafted 51st overall by the Eagles in 2022, delivered a stellar performance throughout the season, showcasing consistency in both run blocking and pass protection.

His efforts were instrumental in the Eagles‘ offensive success, and he played a pivotal role in helping running back Saquon Barkley amass 2,005 rushing yards-enough to earn Barkley his own Pro Bowl nod.

A Well-Deserved Pay Raise

Jurgens’ Pro Bowl selection not only adds to his growing reputation but also qualifies him for a significant salary increase under the NFL’s Proven Performance Escalator (PPE) program.

The PPE policy allows later-round draft picks to earn higher salaries based on playing time and performance milestones.

The Level Three PPE, reserved for players selected in Rounds 2-7 who make a Pro Bowl within their first three seasons, will bump Jurgens‘ base salary from $1,646,322 to a projected $5,217,000 in 2025.

This $3,570,678 raise will count toward the Eagles‘ salary cap, where Jurgens‘ total cap hit for 2025 is expected to be approximately $5,767,095.

Eagles’ Offensive Line Shines

Jurgens‘ standout performance is part of a broader narrative of excellence within the Eagles’ offensive line.

His dominance in run blocking helped the team finish the regular season with an impressive No. 2 seed in the playoffs. Jurgens ranked first across the league in run-block snaps, a testament to his impact on the Eagles‘ rushing attack.

Joining Jurgens in the Pro Bowl are five other Eagles: linebacker Zack Baun, running back Saquon Barkley, right tackle Lane Johnson, left guard Landon Dickerson, and defensive tackle Jalen Carter.

The recognition of multiple Eagles players underscores the team’s overall success and depth.

A Bright Future Ahead

Jurgens‘ performance not only fills the void left by Kelce but also sets the stage for a promising career as one of the league’s premier centers.

His ability to seamlessly step into a leadership role on the offensive line has solidified his importance to the Eagles‘ long-term plans.

With a well-deserved pay raise and Pro Bowl recognition, Jurgens is poised to anchor the Eagles‘ offensive line for years to come, carrying on the legacy of excellence established by his predecessor, Jason Kelce.