Jonathan Greenard’s absence will force the Philadelphia Eagles to adjust their edge-rusher rotation at the beginning of training camp. Greenard will open camp on the active/PUP listafter suffering a pectoral strain while lifting weights. The injury is not considered long-term, but every practice he misses will create opportunities for other defenders.
These four players could benefit most.
Jalyx Hunt
Hunt enters camp with a chance to establish himself as Philadelphia’s most dependable young edge defender. He led the Eagles in sacks in 2025, and Greenard’s absence should provide additional first-team snaps. A strong start could keep Hunt on the field regularly after Greenard returns.
Nolan Smith Jr.
Smith remains one of Philadelphia’s most athletic defenders, but availability
and consistency will determine his role. Greenard’s injury should move Smith higher in the initial rotation and give him more opportunities to rush against starting offensive tackles.
Arnold Ebiketie
Ebiketie joined the Eagles after recording 14½ sacks across four seasons with Atlanta. He brings more NFL pass-rushing production than most of the reserve candidates and could position himself as a reliable rotational option by capitalizing on expanded practice work.
A.J. Epenesa
Epenesa offers elite size as an edge rusher at 6-foot-6 and 280 pounds. His size allows him to set the edge, reduce inside and contribute in multiple defensive fronts. Greenard’s absence gives Philadelphia more reason to evaluate Epenesa alongside the starters and determine how broadly he can be deployed.
Greenard is expected to occupy a significant role once healthy, so the early opportunities will not last indefinitely. They can still influence how defensive coordinator Vic Fangio constructs the rotation. Philadelphia did not acquire Greenard to play every defensive snap. Hunt, Smith, Ebiketie and Epenesa must prove the pass rush can remain effective when its highest-paid edge defender leaves the field.
Training camp will begin with all four receiving an opportunity to make that case.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Four defenders who could capitalize on Jonathan Greenard’s PUP stint
