Alternative options have diminished significantly
The thought of giving up significant compensation in a trade for a player and then immediately having to give a large contract extension can be understandably difficult in many situations. However, there are some exceptions to that.
Given the landscape of current free agency options, a trade for Yannick Ngakoue would be worthwhile for the Eagles. The rationale behind that is the fact that it’s unlikely they will land Jadeveon Clowney and there is a massive drop-off between Ngakoue and the next top available pass rusher.
The NFL Draft is theoretically an option for the Eagles to add more firepower at the EDGE spot. The main drawback is that Philadelphia is not in a position to select an elite prospect for this role. They already have enough good but not great options, so a development route is not worthwhile.
If the Eagles believe that some of their more youthful options at defensive end can grow into being high-level players, then more power to them. Until then, keeping an open mind and remaining opportunistic to add a more dynamic option like Ngakoue would be wise.
