Idaho Vandals Linebacker Isiah King Signs UDFA Contract with Philadelphia Eagles After 2026 NFL Draft
MOSCOW, Idaho — Former University of Idaho linebacker Isiah King has signed an undrafted free agent contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, becoming the first member of Idaho’s 2025 roster to earn a professional opportunity in the NFL. The signing came at the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Draft on Saturday.
King, a native of San Diego, California, spent his college career in Moscow developing from a raw defensive back into one of the Vandals’ most productive defensive players. His journey from special teams contributor to full-time starter to NFL signee represents the kind of player development story that head coaches point to when recruiting the next generation of Vandals.
A Career Built Through Development and Discipline
King arrived in Moscow in 2021 as a defensive back, appearing in three games while preserving his redshirt eligibility. The transition to linebacker in 2022 marked a turning point in his career. As a redshirt freshman, he recorded 19 tackles and an interception, showing early promise in his new role.
By 2024, King had become a key rotational piece for the Vandals’ defense, tallying 48 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, and a sack. His 2025 senior season was his best yet. As a full-time starter, King posted career highs across the board — 79 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and three sacks — while also forcing a fumble. His performance throughout the season made a strong case to NFL scouts evaluating FCS talent heading into the draft cycle.
His progression mirrors the kind of story that defines Idaho football: a player arriving with potential, committing to the process, and emerging as a program cornerstone. The Vandals’ continued efforts to build a competitive program have helped attract and retain athletes capable of competing at the next level.
Head Coach Thomas Ford Praises King’s Journey
Idaho head coach Thomas Ford, who was present for nearly all of King’s time in Moscow, expressed genuine enthusiasm for his former player’s achievement. Ford had previously worked with King as a coordinator before taking the helm as head coach.
“I couldn’t be more excited for Isiah! He embodies what being a Vandal is all about,” Ford said in remarks released by the program. “Watching him go through his development here has been so rewarding. Played a ton of [special teams] as a young player for me when I was the coordinator and had a phenomenal senior season here in Moscow. Everyone in the building knew he was a Sunday guy, so I’m ecstatic to see him get his chance with the Eagles!”
Ford’s comments underscore the importance of player development at the FCS level, where athletes often need multiple seasons to refine their game before attracting attention from NFL organizations.
King Joins a Championship Roster in Philadelphia
King will join the Eagles as part of their 2026 draft class. Philadelphia, the reigning Super Bowl LIX champions, did not select a linebacker during the draft’s proceedings in Pittsburgh. King’s undrafted signing fills that positional need within the team’s post-draft roster building.
King will also be joined in Philadelphia by former Idaho teammate Keyshawn James-Newby, who completed his college eligibility at New Mexico and was selected by the Eagles in the seventh round of the draft. The two former Vandals will have a familiar face as they navigate the transition to professional football.
Additionally, safety Cole Wisniewski, who played at North Dakota State before finishing his career at Texas Tech, provides another FCS connection within the Eagles’ incoming roster group.
King’s signing adds to a growing list of accomplishments tied to the University of Idaho football program and reflects the broader investment the Vandals have made in developing talent. The University of Idaho community has taken notice of such milestones, as athletic achievements often align with the school’s academic and institutional pride. Student achievement at the University of Idaho continues to draw attention both on and off the field.
What Comes Next
Isiah King will report to Philadelphia for rookie minicamp and offseason activities as the Eagles begin preparations for the 2026 NFL season. His path from Moscow to the NFL — built through patience, positional flexibility, and production — will serve as a benchmark for future Vandals pursuing professional opportunities. Idaho fans and the Moscow community will be watching as King attempts to earn a roster spot with the Super Bowl champions.