There might not be a Philadelphia Eagles player under more pressure entering the 2026 season than edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr.
Last season was already bad enough for Smith, missing four games to injury and only posting three sacks. In the offseason, despite getting the fifth-year option picked up on his rookie contract, he got arrested, which really put him behind the eight-ball in 2026. Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton predicted a bust on every NFL team in 2026, with Smith on the wrong side of things as the Eagles' selection.
"In three seasons, Smith has recorded 91 tackles (10 for loss), 10.5 sacks and 33 pressures. For a recent first-rounder, he's posted modest pass-rushing numbers. Moreover, he has started in 22 out of 45 games with defensive snap counts below 58 percent in each of his three seasons.
The Eagles acquired established veteran starting edge-rusher Jonathan Greenard from the Minnesota Vikings. Jalyx Hunt, a 2024 third-rounder, made a second-year leap, registering 52 tackles (nine for loss), 6.5 sacks, 29 pressures and three interceptions (returning one for a touchdown). Greenard and Hunt may be far more impactful than Smith on the edge in 2026."
Nolan Smith can't afford for this prediction to become a reality
Hunt played well last year, leading the Eagles in sacks (6.5) and interceptions (three), ensuring his future with the franchise will be bright. His versatility should serve as a credible threat to Smith's future.
Greenard will always be the number-one pass rusher on the team, no matter what happens. He has posted 12 or more sacks in 2023 and 2024, making him the clear choice to be the top guy.
Smith finds himself in an awkward spot, with the most to prove and a lot of pressure on him to get it done. As a former first-round pick, the Eagles had high hopes for Smith being the next great pass rusher. While he has shown flashes of that in 2024, last year felt like a wash and soured the taste in everyone's mouth about him.
2026 is the most important season of Smith's career because if he doesn't perform well, the next offseason will bring some very interesting scenarios to the table. Trading him might be the best option for the Eagles, even if they only get a third- or fourth-round pick. Anything for him would be better than nothing.
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The Eagles are hoping that it doesn't come down to that, and Smith will step up in the best way. He just has to hope he can get on the franchise and the fan base's better side and help the team out in 2026.
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