The Philadelphia Eagles will have many big changes to the unit with key players like Jaelan Phillips, Reed Blankenship, and Nakobe Dean off the team, but one of their replacements will still be a massive difference-maker.
After Phillips' departure, the Eagles made a trade with the Minnesota Vikings during the draft to acquire edge rusher Jonathan Greenard and a draft pick in exchange for two third-round picks. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio spoke to the media about what he sees in Greenard's game that makes him believe he will be good.
"He's had years where he has had good numbers sacks-wise, but like we always discussed, you know, pressure on the quarterback is also important, and he's been able to do that throughout his career," Fangio said via Sports Illustrated's John McMullen. "I think he's strong on the edge versus the run game. We're excited to have him, but I think there's a lot of good there."
Jonathan Greenard has the vote of confidence from Vic Fangio
The Eagles shouldn't lose a beat at all with Greenard jumping into Phillips' spot off the edge. Last year was an up-and-down season for Greenard because of the injury, but he still got plenty of pressure on the quarterback with 47 pressures in 12 games.
Greenard had only three sacks last year, but in previous seasons, he's recorded over 10, and he was a Pro Bowler in 2024. When healthy, he is one of the top pass rushers in the NFL at pressuring the quarterback.
Fangio might be a bit more focused on developing Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt so he can get them to Greenard's level. Going into the 2026 season, Greenard should have the full trust of Fangio and the coaching staff to step up and be a leader in the edge rusher room.
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The defense shouldn't miss a beat despite losing some pieces, and Greenard is a big reason Fangio should still be able to sleep well at night knowing he's got one of the top units in the league.
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