Much-hyped Eagles draft pick ends up on 'make-or-break' list

As part of the Philadelphia Eagles' decision to part ways with two pass rushers from their Super Bowl-winning team in Bryce Huff and Josh Sweat, former top recruit and first-round pick Nolan Smith will be thrust into the spotlight on a team looking for yet another championship.

With Huff now in San Francisco after a terrible season with Philly following his big three-year contract and Sweat in Arizona after the Cardinals gave him a huge deal on the open market, Smith has gone from an interesting role player to one of the most impactful starters on this team.

Pro Football Focus listed Smith as the Eagles' representative on their "make-or-break" list entering the 2025 season, citing the need to replace those two in addition to recently retired veteran Brandon Graham.

Smith certainly has the talent to not only replace those players but also improve upon them. However, he needs to put rubber to the road and show that he is capable of that for Vic Fangio's defense to reign supreme again.

Eagles EDGE Nolan Smith listed on "make-or-break" list

Smith's grade from PFF puts him just outside the top 25 among all edge rushers in the league despite not playing as many snaps as some of the best ends in the league. the encouraging part of this grade is the fact his 77.6 run defense number is so high, as that was a concern for a smaller player like Smith in the NFL Draft.

While the Eagles aren't necessarily weak in any particular area, edge rusher might have some questions attached to it. 2024 third-rounder Jalyx Hunt is projected to be a starter on the outside, while two free agent signings in Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari will compete for snaps in a backup role.

If Smith is unable to take a huge leap, which may manifest in the form of double-digit sacks or an equally effective form of production, there could be some real questions as to how this Eagles team will get after the quarterback. Jalen Carter is exceptional, but he can only do so much on the interior.

The Eagles are one of the best drafting teams in the league, and Smith looks to be well on his way to stardom after a surprising fall into Philly's lap. However, if he struggles to take the step forward that everyone wants to see, it might be tough for the Eagles to put together an equally strong defense.