Eagles Edge Rusher Wrongly Named As 'Make or Break' Candidate
Is it too early to say that a third-year edge rusher is entering a "make or break season? Even if that player is coming off an excellent postseason?
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That's the question (or two) surrounding Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith. The former first-round pick from the 2023 draft enjoyed last year's breakout postseason when he recorded a league-high four of his 6.5 total sacks in the playoffs.
Most analysts would consider Smith a 'bigger breakout' candidate. Not someone in a pressure cooker.
Pro Football Focus' Dalton Wasserman isn't one of those analysts.
Wasserman highlighted Smith as a "make-or-break" candidate for the team heading into 2025.
"Smith's make-or-break candidacy isn't an indictment of his NFL resumé as much as it is an indication of the Eagles' need for him to be a star," Wasserman said. "The team lost veteran edge defenders Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham this offseason, making Smith a sure-fire starter for the first time in his career."
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Smith is set to play a significant role on the Eagles defense this year. He needs to produce at a high level if Philadelphia is to have any chance of fielding an elite defensive line.
The organization is confident he can reach that mark this year.
Despite tearing his triceps in Super Bowl LIX, the Eagles strongly believe in Smith's work ethic and abilities.
And to us? And to Philly? That would make him a "re-breakout" candidate, not a "make-or-break" candidate this season.
Related: Eagles Called Potential Landing Spot For All-Pro Safety
Related: Eagles Defense Called 'Miles Ahead' of Last Year's Top Unit
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 18, 2025, where it first appeared.
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