Despite there being a better feeling among Philadelphia Eagles fans with the edge rusher room, there are still some questions regarding Nolan Smith Jr. and Jalyx Hunt.
Hunt had a career season last year, leading the Eagles in sacks and interceptions, while Smith has hit a rough patch with injury and an arrest this offseason, but did have his fifth-year option picked up on his rookie contract. All of that has not helped Smith out entirely as he faces a massive 2026 season, looking to show improvement.
Sports Illustrated's Justin Melo made a suggestion for the Eagles in his latest 2027 NFL mock draft. Melo thinks the Birds could select Oregon edge rusher Matayo Uiagalelei with the 24th overall pick.
"The Philadelphia Eagles believe in keeping the cupboard restocked at pass rusher. Matayo Uiagalelei was generating significant 2026 buzz before deciding to return to school. Uiagalelei is a big-bodied powerful rusher with an early-down skill set."
Could Nolan Smith be replaced if another bad season happens in Philly?
During his junior year, Uiagalelei racked up 34 tackles, six sacks, three pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. In 2024, he was named a first-team All-Big Ten selection with the Ducks.
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is always looking for big, athletic edge rushers to join his defense. Uiagalelei is exactly that and would be a great fit for Fangio's defense, as he can be a rotational player early in his career.
This move, though, would certainly put Smith on the hot seat after just three sacks in 12 games during the 2025 season. For the Eagles to look at an edge rusher in the 2027 NFL Draft, that would mean things went south for Smith.
Philly would have Smith under contract through the 2027 season with the fifth-year option being picked up, but that doesn't mean he would have to stay on the team. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman could look at offloading him in a trade elsewhere to collect a pick or two, while saving some money.
Read more: How Eagles' All-Pro corners separate themselves from rest of the NFL
At this point, Hunt has the Eagles' full confidence to be the other starting edge rusher alongside Jonathan Greenard in the future, leaving someone like Uiagalelei to be a good potential backup. Smith should know that his time with Philly could be running out quicker than expected if he folds for a second straight year.
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