This Philadelphia Eagles team is looking very different in 2026 despite many of the players returning from last year’s unit.
A new offensive scheme will play a role in this year’s team not having the same feel. Key additions like Makai Lemon, Jonathan Greenard, and Riq Woolen gives everyone a sense that this is going to be a unique year that’ll either be make or break for a lot of guys.
Looking at who can make an impact on the team, there are more backups on the Eagles than some might expect who can help them. Here are the four most important backups poised for a strong 2026 season.
Tank Bigsby, RB
Many Eagles fans complained throughout 2025 that Bigsby was not getting enough touches, with Saquon Barkley taking most of them. Bigsby was averaging 5.9 yards per carry, while Barkley was averaging just 4.1 yards per carry. Eagles fans hope new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion will be smart enough to know he’s got a weapon in his backfield in Bigsby and include him in the game plan more.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB
Trotter shined at Eagles OTAs as his coverage skills appear to be improving, which is good news for the linebackers. Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell are the clear-cut starters at inside linebacker, but Trotter should get more reps in the rotation. After being a special teams ace over the last few years, Trotter is ready for his new role.
Fred Johnson, OT
Last season, Fred Johnson came up big for the Eagles, filling in for Lane Johnson multiple times as he dealt with injuries at right tackle. Fred Johnson’s heroics in the Eagles’ Week 3 win over the Los Angeles Rams and starting the last eight games at right tackle helped the team get into the postseason. With injuries more likely to happen in some capacity in 2026 on the line, Johnson might be back out there doing it again for them.
Read more: 4 Eagles players no one is talking about (but should be)
Hollywood Brown, WR
If there are four receiver sets for the Eagles, Brown will be out there, but otherwise, he will be just jumping into the rotation when the offense needs to go deep. His speed is something Jalen Hurts has not had besides Quez Watkins. Brown will play a huge role in this passing game in 2026.
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