Is Nolan Smith about to silence his critics?
Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport thinks so. In his "Bust to Breakout" predictions for 2026, Davenport named the Eagles linebacker as a prime candidate to shed the bust label and emerge as a star.
The Bold Prediction
Davenport projects Smith to:
- Lead the Eagles in sacks in 2026
- Make his first Pro Bowl
- Form a dominant three-man rotation with Jonathan Greenard and Josh Sweat
What Went Wrong in 2025
After a breakout 2024 season (6.5 sacks), Smith regressed significantly:
- Just 3 sacks in 12 games
- Missed time with a triceps injury
- Josh Sweat outplayed him with 6.5 sacks and 24 QB hits
Why 2026 Could Be Different
The Eagles exercised Smith's fifth-year option, showing faith in the 25-year-old. He'll make $13.7 million in 2027.
Coach Nick Sirianni remains a believer:
"He is just a nasty, violent football player. I know how physical Nolan is. He's heavy-handed. Big-time hitter. Man, he is so tough."
Playoff Dominance
Smith owns the Eagles franchise record for most sacks in a single postseason with 4 during the Super Bowl LIX run. In 6 career playoff games:
- 22 tackles
- 4.5 sacks
- 20 QB pressures
- 7 QB hits
If Smith can stay healthy and replicate his playoff form in the regular season, that Pro Bowl prediction might be conservative.
