Entering the 2026 season, there is a lot of good young talent on the Philadelphia Eagles' roster that just hasn't reached their full potential yet.
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman has done a great job over the last six years of using the draft and free agency to make the roster younger, with youth a massive focus. That has led to some bold decisions to move up in drafts and take chances on players in trades.
With time running out, the Eagles are hoping some of them will finally hit their full potential and become the elite talent they were wanting to see. Which four Eagles players are poised to have a breakout season in 2026?
Nolan Smith Jr., EDGE
The injury last year really set Smith back, but there is potential that 2026 could be the year he breaks out. He had 6.5 sacks in 2024, so the ability to rush the passer is there. After getting his fifth-year option picked up, this is Smith's chance to really prove to the Eagles that he can be the perfect partner to Jonathan Greenard for the long term.
Tank Bigsby, RB
There is legit potential with Bigsby being a future starter for the Eagles in the backfield, as crazy as that might sound. The 24-year-old running back averaged 5.9 yards per carry with the Eagles last year, but just didn't get enough touches with a lack of a running game and Saquon Barkley getting all the carries. If Philly commits to using two running backs more often in 2026, this could be the year Bigsby breaks out and might even challenge Barkley in the future.
Dontayvion Wicks, WR
If Eagles fans want to know the full potential of Wicks in the NFL, his rookie year with the Green Bay Packers is a good indicator, after averaging 14.9 yards per catch. Since then, though, he hasn't been over 12 yards per reception in the last two seasons. Philly has been needing size on the outside with A.J. Brown on his way out, so Wicks brings a whole new dynamic to the picture that could finally show what kind of receiver he is.
Read more: Eagles reporter just found another massive 2026 disadvantage team must deal with
Andrew Mukuba, S
While there were some inconsistencies in coverage, Mukuba proved in the preseason and regular season that he has a nose for the football and can be a playmaker. He's back from his lower leg injury that cost him the last month of the season. There's a lot of pressure on him to perform now that Reed Blankenship is gone, but he has all the skills in the world to get rolling in Year 2.
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