The Philadelphia Eagles are less than a week away from the first game of the regular season, and there are a lot of players who need to step up for them.
A few players on this team are in the hot seat in 2026. They need to step up and play well, or they'll find themselves playing for other teams if they don't live up to expectations.
Five players fit this category well for the Eagles. Here's a look at who is on this list.
Which Eagles are on the hot seat for the 2026 season?
Tyler Steen, RG
Steen had a good first full year as the starting right guard, but he didn't play like the other four starters who are considered top-10 at their positions. There is room for growth for Steen, but he doesn't have a lot of time to prove it, so the 2026 season is his time. If he doesn't get better, he could be looking for a new team.
Nolan Smith Jr., EDGE
From collecting only three sacks last season to his arrest about a month after his fifth-year option was picked up on his rookie contract, Smith has a lot to prove in 2026. He has not lived up to the expectations of being a first-rounder. This season will determine whether he stays or gets traded in the offseason.
Jake Elliott, K
This is a no-brainer decision after going two straight seasons of hitting under 80% of his field goals. Elliott has all the capabilities to be a great kicker in this league, but he struggles to hit field goals from 50 yards or longer. He's got a chance to silence all the critics by getting his groove back in 2026.
Will Shipley, RB
Shipley has done some good things in the preseason to get back on the Eagles fans' good side, but his regular-season performances over the last few years leave much to be desired. The Eagles might get more out of Tank Bigsby this season, which could lead to big things in the future for him in Philly. Shipley needs to play well if he wants his Eagles career to make a turnaround.
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Jalen Hurts, QB
I know, I know, I know. Hurts being on this list will not be agreed on by fans, and that's understandable. This isn't about him losing his job in 2027, but not seeing a better season will affect his future after 2026.
If Hurts doesn't elevate his game this season, a young quarterback will be drafted in the first or second round to push him. It may not be the right call, but Hurts will be challenged to do better, especially if Nick Sirianni is fired after the 2026 season, which also sounds insane.
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