Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman can breathe after making three trades in the last week, as the trade deadline has officially passed. Now, it's back to focusing on the current players on the team.
First up, the great news that the Eagles have opened up the 21-day practice window for edge rusher Nolan Smith. Philly has not had Smith on the field since reinjuring his triceps in the Week 3 game against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Eagles also announced the release of two players, including one of Roseman's favorite players, Patrick Johnson, and wide receiver Terrace Marshall. Johnson's release was made to make room for Jaelan Phillips, who had just joined the team via a trade with the Miami Dolphins. Marshall had to be released after Danny Gray was brought back to join the practice squad.
Smith is returning at the perfect time for the Eagles
Philly has struggled with the pass rush off the edge with just 4.5 sacks from the group this season, none by Smith. It has been a relatively slow start to the season for Smith, who has 10 tackles, one quarterback hit, and one forced fumble in three games.
A lot has changed with the edge rushers since Smith was placed on IR. Za'Darius Smith retired, Ogbo Okoronkwo and Azeez Ojulari joined Smith on IR, Brandon Graham came out of retirement to play with the team, and the Eagles traded for Phillips.
When Smith returns, it will be him and Phillips in the starting lineup with Jalyx Hunt, Josh Uche, and Brandon Graham jumping into the rotation. Eagles fans shouldn't expect Smith to return right away, as the team has been more cautious about when players come back. They have four healthy players who can get the job done.
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It's at least a good step in the right direction to see the final form of the Eagles' edge rushers, but the unit has to play better down the stretch as they get into the playoff hunt.