PHILADELPHIA — Nolan Smith did not need a lengthy explanation to describe how he is approaching one of the most important seasons of his NFL career.
“If you don’t make plays … you don’t eat,” Smith said.
The Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher’s message was brief, but it captured the urgency surrounding his fourth season. Smith has developed from a first-round prospect into a meaningful part of Philadelphia’s defensive front. The next step is proving he can consistently affect games as a pass rusher, run defender and complete outside linebacker.
Smith enters training camp as part of a remodeled edge group. Jalyx Hunt is coming off a productive season, while Philadelphia added Jonathan Greenard, A.J. Epenesa and Arnold Ebiketie during the offseason.
Greenard’s pectoral injury has temporarily removed one veteran from practice, but the competition for snaps remains significant.
That depth gives defensive coordinator Vic Fangio options. It also means opportunities must be earned.
Nolan Smith on how he’s approaching 2026:
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) August 3, 2026
“If you don’t make plays… you don’t eat.”
Huge year for the fourth-year edge this fall. pic.twitter.com/LpXTXmaVor
Smith’s speed, effort and ability to pursue plays across the field have never been in question. His development will be measured by whether he can convert those traits into more pressures, sacks, tackles for loss and disruptive snaps. Philadelphia needs its edge defenders to complement an interior line built around Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis and Moro Ojomo.
The Eagles do not necessarily need one outside linebacker to handle every snap. Fangio can rotate players based on matchups, personnel packages and game situations. Smith can still separate himself by becoming the player Philadelphia trusts in its most important moments, particularly on passing downs.
Training camp production will not guarantee regular-season success, but it can establish Smith’s place within the rotation. Every one-on-one rep, team period and preseason snap provides another opportunity to demonstrate his growth.
Smith understands the situation. Philadelphia’s pass-rush rotation is talented enough that reputation and draft status will not secure playing time. Making plays will.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Nolan Smith enters pivotal Eagles season with a simple message
