Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for the 2025 season with a focus on their edge rusher position, following a year of significant developments. Defensive Ends/Outside Linebackers Coach Jeremiah Washburn is optimistic about the talent available, particularly highlighting Nolan Smith's progress. Smith, in his third year, had an impressive 2024 season with 6.5 sacks in the regular season and a franchise-record four sacks during the postseason. Despite suffering a torn triceps in the Super Bowl, he is expected to recover for the upcoming season.

Josh Sweat, who has been with the Eagles since 2018 and played a key role in their Super Bowl victory, will enter free agency. His performance could attract considerable interest from other teams. The future of veteran Brandon Graham remains uncertain as he completes his 15th season with the Eagles.

Jalyx Hunt is another player to watch as he enters his second year after showing promise during his rookie season by increasing his defensive snaps significantly during playoffs. Bryce Huff aims to make a comeback after dealing with a wrist injury that required surgery last year.

K.J. Henry and Ochaun Mathis are also on the roster looking to secure spots on the team and contribute to its success.

Coach Washburn praised Smith's development: "Just the detail of the game, he's really taken that to heart. And just kind of taking something from every vet that he's been around, he's taken a little something from each guy and put that in his game and put it all together."

Smith's stats improved remarkably from one sack in 188 snaps (16 percent) during 2023 to six-and-a-half sacks over 586 snaps (52 percent) in 2024, along with increased pressures and hits.

As March approaches, Josh Sweat remains scheduled as an unrestricted free agent come March 12th.