Nolan Smith's Health Boost Gives Eagles a Chance to Judge His Future
After a full offseason without injury, rookie pass rusher Nolan Smith returns to training camp, offering the Philadelphia Eagles a clearer view of his long-term value.
Three years into his NFL career, first-round selection Nolan Smith remains a question mark for the Philadelphia Eagles as he heads into his contract's last season. A triceps tear incurred during Super Bowl LIX limited his rookie momentum and kept him to just 12 games last year, preventing him from fully showcasing the disruptive pass rush he displayed in 2024. Entering camp fully healthy, Smith impressed coaches with his explosiveness and ability to generate pressure, even beating Lane Johnson for a sack in an open practice.
The competition is stiff, with Jalyx Hunt enjoying a strong camp and Jonathan Greenard expected to rejoin the rotation later. The Eagles will need clear, sustained performance from Smith to decide whether he becomes a cornerstone of their defense.
Why it matters
Smith's health and performance will influence the Eagles' defensive strategy and roster decisions for the upcoming season.
In this story
