
Eagles outside linebacker Nolan Smith was arrested this past Friday for speeding and reckless driving, as detailed by ESPN’s Tim McManus.
Notes from the Twiggs County Sheriff’s Office indicate Smith was traveling 135mph in a 70mph zone on the interstate prior to being stopped at 10:41pm. Smith posted bond shortly after being booked, per the sheriff’s office. A future court date has been set.
Smith entered the league in 2023 as an Eagles first-rounder. He represents one of several former Georgia defenders selected by Philadelphia in recent years. The Bulldogs have developed a reputation for off-field incidents given the number of driving charges in particular which have emerged over the years, although this is the first arrest in Smith’s case.
After operating as a backup during his rookie season, Smith took on a starting role in 2024. The 25-year-old posted 6.5 sacks in the regular season and added another four during the playoffs. Expectations were high after he played a key role in Philadelphia’s Super Bowl run, but Smith was limited to 12 games in 2025. He totaled three sacks in that span.
Eyeing an upgrade along the edge after Jaelan Phillips‘ free agent departure, the Eagles swung a trade for Jonathan Greenard. The former Vikings Pro Bowler will be counted on to handle starting duties, and at least a two-year run alongside Smith can be expected. Roughly one month ago, the Eagles elected to pick up Smith’s fifth-year option; he is under team control through the 2027 campaign as a result. Smith will collect $13.75MM that season.
The Eagles will begin spring practices on May 21 by starting OTAs. Those will be followed by mandatory minicamp June 9-10. Smith’s availability on that front will be tied to the timing of his upcoming court date.
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