With the Philadelphia Eagles finally moving on from receiver A.J. Brown, they are focused on building a roster with players who want to stick around. The 2026 season will be massive for several players looking to get an extension, and edge rusher Nolan Smith is near the top of the list.
The Eagles want to see what Smith can do next season before they look to extend him. And the latest extension should give him even more motivation to produce. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Seattle Seahawks and edge Derick Hall agreed to terms on a three-year, $42 million extension that could be worth up to $46.5 million with $21 million guaranteed.
The Seahawks decided to retain a player who played a valuable role on a Super Bowl-winning roster without breaking the bank. They provided him with security and locked him in for the next couple of years. If Smith doesn't bring his best foot forward with the Eagles, this is just a glimpse of what he'll be leaving on the table.
Derick Hall's extension should only motivate Eagles edge Nolan Smith
Just last month, Smith was arrested in Georgia for speeding and reckless driving. He was released the following day, and he's due back in court on July 14. This is less than ideal, especially after Smith had an underwhelming season in 2025.
Last season, Smith was forced to miss five games with a triceps injury. Even when he was on the field, Smith didn't play to the level he wanted. In 12 games, he had 31 total tackles, 11 QB hits, and three sacks. Smith still managed to record 33 total pressures, but the team is still looking for more. In 45 career games with Philadelphia, Smith has tallied 91 total tackles, 25 QB hits, 10 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, and 72 total pressures.
As for Hall, he has notched 105 total tackles, 38 QB hits, 12 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks in 48 games with the Seahawks. Both players are from the 2023 draft class, and with their stats very similar, this deal could provide Philadelphia with a framework for Smith's extension.
Read more: Eagles star shouldn't have to wait long for extension after A.J. Brown trade
It comes down to what Smith does in 2026 and if he gives the front office enough confidence to offer an extension. Other players like Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean will look to cash in next offseason. If Smith wants to join that list, he'll need to have a bounce-back season, and this contract may end up being a jumping-off point at the negotiating table.
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