The Philadelphia Eagles are understandably searching for answers after dropping back-to-back games against NFC contenders. Every option is on the table as Philly searches for the needed changes to once again establish itself among the league's top threats. One of the surprising issues that the Eagles have dealt with this season is a pass rush that isn't among the league's elite units. This is a change-up from last season, when the defensive line was consistently dominating down the stretch of the 2024 campaign.
It was an obvious concern for GM Howie Roseman, who went so far as to sign Brandon Graham out of retirement and give up a day two draft pick for Jaelan Phillips, who has been brilliant. However, the unit still needs an obvious change, and even with the results underwhelming, this should be giving Nolan Smith far more snaps down the stretch of the season.
Smith has had an up-and-down tenure in Philadelphia and remains a bit of a mystery down the stretch. However, the defender is 24 and offers far more potential upside than any of Philly's current pass-rushing pieces. If there is any breakout coming or a piece that is yet to reach its full potential, it is Smith.
Eagles Must Give Nolan Smith More Consistent Snaps Down the Stretch
It isn't as if the defense the Eagles have on the field the most is consistently getting the job done. Philly was unable to slow down Dak Prescott and the Cowboys' offense in the second half of a loss. The following week, the Eagles would give up nearly 300 rushing yards and have zero answers for Caleb Williams or the Chicago Bears' rushing attack. With this in mind, the franchise is very open to change, and this should include putting Smith on the field far more often.
While the Georgia product is already playing an important role, his snap count isn't measuring up anywhere close to that of Philadelphia's starters. This is where the Eagles should move him as they attempt to find defensive answers. Smith's upside as a pass rusher remains, and it is time for the Eagles to allow the defender to sink or swim.
Help isn't coming from anywhere else, with the trade deadline far passed and free agency offering zero legitimate pass-rushing options. It is time for the Eagles to focus on their current options and explore who could have a bigger impact in a higher-volume role.
Smith is far from proven, but still should be given a better opportunity based simply on a lack of other established options. Allow the edge rusher the chance to consistently play a high level of snaps down the stretch of the season, and hope this allows you to find a surprise source of pass-rushing production. At worst, you will have your answer on where Smith fits in moving forward as the Eagles continue to reshuffle.