One week separates Philadelphia Eagles fans from watching them take on the Washington Commanders in the regular season opener for 2026.
The Eagles have high expectations, hoping to bring the Lombardi Trophy home to Philly again. That will require this very talented roster to step up and play well all season.
Philly will need a lot of their young stars to step up and deliver the many breakout seasons Eagles fans have been waiting for. There are five that meet this criterion and can really have an impact on the 2026 season.
Which Eagles could use a breakout season in 2026?
Tyler Steen, RG
Steen had a strong first full year as the starter, but many fans want to see more from the young offensive lineman. With Lane Johnson retiring after the season at right tackle, there's more pressure for Steen to develop on the right side and play well, or he could be signing elsewhere in free agency next offseason. The Eagles would love for him to take his game to the next level and become the reliable starter they need.
Ty Robinson, DT
Last year, Robinson was either inactive for games or didn't play much of the 2026 season because everyone ahead of him was ahead. After producing three sacks in three preseason games this year, it feels as though his role is about to be elevated for the upcoming season. With Moro Ojomo a potential departure after the season, Robinson showing he can start would make the Eagles feel better about the situation.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB
For the last two years, Trotter has been on the bench and working his tail off on special teams. Nakobe Dean can't hold him back anymore, as Trotter will now be in the rotation at inside linebacker with Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell. This is Trotter's time to prove that he is ready to step up and be a starter on the Eagles' defense.
Darius Cooper, WR
Cooper had a second straight season of blowing it out of the water at training camp. Last year, he caught only nine passes because he didn't play much, so he got a pass. 2026 is different, though, as his role on the team should increase after fully earning Jalen Hurts' trust. Cooper needs to carry that aura from camp into the regular season, as the Eagles need him to step up with A.J. Brown gone and so many new weapons on this offense.
Read more: 5 Eagles who are in the danger zone of not being on the team after 2026
Tank Bigsby, RB
Philly's offense will look very different in 2026, so any returning players will need to step up in some way. The hope is that Bigsby can take his 5.9 yards per carry last year and bring it with him for 2026. Saquon Barkley is a great talent, but taking touches off his hands can really help him throughout the season, so if Bigsby can play well this season, the Eagles' offense could reach new heights.
