DONE DEAL: Philadelphia Eagles Re-Sign Former Pro Bowl Spanish Offensive Tackle Alejandro Villanueva to 3-Year, $450 Million Contract with $320 Million Guaranteed
Philadelphia, PA – May 7, 2025 — In one of the most stunning and inspirational moves of the NFL offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles have re-signed former Pro Bowl Spanish offensive tackle Alejandro Villanueva to a three-year,
$450 million contract, including a record-breaking $320 million in guaranteed money. The deal makes Villanueva the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history and brings a remarkable career full-circle — back to the franchise where it all began.
The 6-foot-9 Villanueva, a U.S. Army veteran and native of Spain, returns to the Eagles a decade after he first entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2014.
Though he was released before playing a game for the team, his path would soon lead him to success with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he became a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the most respected figures in the league.
Now, at age 36 and nearly four years removed from his last NFL snap, Villanueva is staging a comeback that few saw coming — but one that he insists is fueled by purpose, preparation, and unfinished business.
“This is about legacy,” Villanueva said during a press conference at the NovaCare Complex. “I’ve never stopped training. I’ve never stopped believing. Coming back to Philadelphia feels right. It feels like destiny.”
A Historic Deal
Villanueva’s new contract is not only historic for an offensive lineman, it rivals some of the biggest deals given to star quarterbacks. The contract’s terms include:
- $450 million total over three years
- $320 million guaranteed
- $100 million signing bonus
- Annual average salary of $150 million
The massive financial commitment signals just how confident the Eagles are in Villanueva’s ability to return to elite form — and how serious they are about pushing for another Super Bowl run.
General Manager Howie Roseman praised Villanueva’s discipline, leadership, and rare combination of size and athleticism.
“Alejandro is a force on and off the field,” Roseman said. “His work ethic is unmatched, and when he came in for workouts, it was clear he’s still got it. This isn’t just a feel-good story — this is a football decision. We believe he will make an immediate impact.”
The Comeback Nobody Expected
After retiring following the 2021 season with the Baltimore Ravens, Villanueva spent his time in media, philanthropy, and international military outreach. However, privately, he maintained a strict training regimen. Sources say he remained in top-tier shape and quietly told close confidants that if the right opportunity came along, he would consider a return.
That opportunity came when the Eagles began searching for a veteran presence to solidify their offensive line. After an initial visit and workout, the team was reportedly “blown away” by Villanueva’s strength, speed, and agility — which appeared virtually unchanged from his prime years.
Head Coach Nick Sirianni didn’t mince words about the signing.
“He’s a competitor, a warrior, and a leader,” Sirianni said. “His toughness matches the spirit of Philadelphia. We couldn’t be more excited to bring him back home.”
International Buzz and Cultural Significance
Villanueva, who was born in Mississippi but raised in Spain, remains one of the most iconic international players in NFL history. His return has generated enormous buzz across Spanish sports media, and fans in Europe are celebrating what many are calling a “historic sports moment” for Spain.
NFL officials are reportedly in early talks with the Eagles about hosting a 2026 international game in Madrid, capitalizing on Villanueva’s popularity to grow the game in Europe.
“Seeing a Spanish-born star return to the NFL and sign a deal like this is monumental,” said Javier Garcia, editor-in-chief of Marca Fútbol Americano. “It inspires an entire generation of Spanish athletes.”
What It Means for the Eagles
Villanueva is expected to slot in as the starting left tackle, protecting Jalen Hurts and serving as a mentor to younger linemen. His leadership and experience could prove vital for a team looking to reassert itself as a Super Bowl contender.
Hurts, who met Villanueva for the first time this week, said he was honored to share the huddle with him.
“This man is a legend,” Hurts said. “He’s been to war, he’s been to Pro Bowls, and now he’s back to go to battle with us. Let’s go win.”
Final Word
From undrafted rookie to Pro Bowler, from Army Ranger to global ambassador, and now from retired veteran to record-breaking signee — Alejandro Villanueva’s story is far from over. And with his return to Philadelphia, the city that gave him his first NFL opportunity, the next chapter promises to be just as unforgettable.
“This isn’t just a comeback,” Villanueva said with a smile. “It’s a mission. And it’s time to finish it.”
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