One of the most impressive performances from the 2025 season on the Philadelphia Eagles was from young edge rusher Jalyx Hunt.
In just his second season, Hunt led the Eagles in sacks (6.5) and interceptions (three) as he became the first player in franchise history to do that. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has seemed to be pleased with his young edge rusher so far and shared his expectations for the 2026 season.
“Just keep doing what he's doing," Fangio said via Inside The Bird's Andrew DiCecco. "He's had a nice progression. I see him growing his game in all aspects. I think he can and will rush better. He'll play the run better. It's just the natural progression. He's had a good progression.
“In his rookie year, he didn't play a lot early (on). Then when BG (Brandon Graham) went down, he started playing more, and I thought for a guy with his background, was kind of a perfect year for him. He ended up playing a good bit if you remember in the playoffs, et cetera. Then last year played a lot, did good. Yeah, I think he's just ready to keep getting better and better.”
Jalyx Hunt will need to take another massive leap in 2026
Last year, Hunt racked up 52 tackles, five stuffs, 6.5 sacks, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one pick-six in 17 games. Those are impressive numbers from a guy who was in and out of the rotation all season, with Jaelan Phillips' arrival taking playing time away from Hunt.
It appears it will be another season of Hunt being in the rotation, with recently acquired Jonathan Greenard and Nolan Smith Jr. expected to be the starters. Hunt and Smith will most likely rotate more often as Greenard will just replace Phillips' spot as the top edge rusher.
Hunt is an impressive talent as he is more athletic than any other edge rusher on the team. He is a true outside linebacker who can drop back into coverage while also pressuring the quarterback. That's something Philly will not particularly get from Greenard or Smith on a consistent level.
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Each season has been better for Hunt, and the hope is that 2026 will be the year he breaks out and showcases his true potential in the NFL.