What's Happening?
The Philadelphia Eagles have signed veteran pass rusher Za'Darius Smith following their season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. The decision comes after the Eagles failed to record a single sack in their victory over Dallas, highlighting a need for improvement in their pass rush. Smith, previously with the Detroit Lions, was released in March due to cap space issues. The Eagles' pass rush was notably weak, relying heavily on young players like Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith, who have yet to prove themselves at a Pro Bowl level. The addition of Smith, a three-time Pro Bowl player with consistent high-level production, is expected to provide the Eagles with the depth and experience needed to enhance their defensive capabilities.
Why It's Important?
The signing of Za'Darius Smith is crucial for the Eagles as it addresses a significant gap in their defensive lineup. Smith's proven track record, including multiple double-digit sack seasons, offers the Eagles a reliable option to pressure opposing quarterbacks. This move is likely to relieve pressure on younger players like Hunt and Nolan Smith, allowing them to develop without the immediate burden of leading the pass rush. The Eagles' decision to strengthen their pass rush could have a positive impact on their overall defensive performance, potentially leading to better outcomes in future games and enhancing their chances in the competitive NFL landscape.
What's Next?
With Smith now part of the team, the Eagles are expected to see improvements in their pass rush strategy. The presence of a seasoned player like Smith could lead to more favorable matchups for other defensive players, such as Jalen Carter, who will benefit from the added pressure Smith can apply on the outside. The Eagles may continue to evaluate their defensive lineup and make further adjustments as needed to ensure a robust pass rush throughout the season.
