Eagles LB Oren Burks Fined $8,333 Ahead of Playoff Debut Against Rams
Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Oren Burks is gearing up for one of the most significant games of his seven-year NFL career as the team prepares to face the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round of the playoffs on Sunday. This high-stakes matchup holds the promise of advancing the Eagles to the NFC 
Championship game, but before Burks can focus fully on the game, he must first address a fine handed down by the NFL.
Burks has been fined $8,333 for unnecessary roughness during a play in the Eagles’ wild card win over the Green Bay Packers. Interestingly, no penalty flag was thrown on the field during the game, meaning that the Eagles were not penalized at the time for the infraction. However, after reviewing the play, the NFL determined that Burks’ actions warranted the fine. While the timing of the fine is not ideal, especially so close to such an important playoff game, Burks has remained focused and intent on contributing to his team’s success in the upcoming matchup.
This fine marks Burks’ first and only penalty of the 2024-25 season, a relatively clean record compared to many players across the league. The linebacker will take the financial hit in stride, writing the check and continuing his preparations for the Rams game without distraction. Burks is a seasoned player and knows the importance of staying focused, especially as the stakes rise in the playoffs.
The Eagles’ linebacker unit, which had been a strength throughout the regular season, will now rely heavily on Burks as he steps into the starting inside linebacker role following the injury of Nakobe Dean. Dean, who was a key player for the Eagles, was placed on injured reserve with a season-ending knee injury, leaving Burks and Zack Baun as the primary inside linebackers for the team moving forward. With all eyes on him, Burks is ready to prove his worth and lead the defense.
Burks had an impressive regular-season performance, registering 41 tackles, two forced fumbles, and one defended pass. His ability to contribute both in coverage and in stopping the run has made him a key piece of the Eagles’ defensive unit. Alongside Baun and rookie Jeremiah Trotter, Burks has the challenge of filling big shoes in a crucial playoff run. Despite the pressure, Burks remains confident in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion.
“I’m ready. I’m ready,” Burks said when asked about stepping into the starting role. “The whole year just waiting for an opportunity. They’ve been playing really well, Nakobe and Zack. I’ve been really proud of the room. Everybody, even (Jeremiah) Trotter, when we got in that last game, he shows up and makes plays. Just the mentality we have in the room, it’s just next-man-up mentality.”
The “next-man-up” mentality is one that has defined the Eagles’ defense all season long, and with Burks now stepping into the spotlight, the linebacker room is ready to face whatever challenges the Rams throw their way.
Fans of the Eagles are eagerly anticipating Burks’ performance in Sunday’s game against the Rams. With his determination and strong defensive play, Burks is poised to help lead his team as they aim for a spot in the NFC Championship. The fine may have been an unfortunate distraction, but it’s clear that Burks’ focus is squarely on his next task: helping the Eagles continue their playoff journey and make a push for the Super Bowl.
