The Philadelphia Eagles have questions at edge rusher heading into the 2026 season, and the answers will determine how dangerous Vic Fangio’s defense can be.

Jalyx Hunt led the Eagles in both interceptions (3) and sacks last year with 6.5 sacks, a performance that shows how much the team needs from its pass-rushing group. The addition of Jonathan Greenard from the Minnesota Vikings for two third-round picks was supposed to bolster that unit, but his availability remains a concern.

Greenard has been banged up throughout the offseason and just returned to the practice field for the first time in months. It remains unclear whether he will be ready for Week 1. When healthy, Greenard has been a productive pass rusher, but durability issues have plagued him over the last few years.

The Eagles paid a meaningful price to acquire him, and at some point, that investment has to translate to production on the field.

Hunt leads the way, Nolan Smith needs a bounce-back

Hunt was arguably the best player at Eagles training camp, and people around the league believe he could be in line for a double-digit sack season. That kind of production would give Philadelphia a legitimate top-tier pass rusher to build the defense around.

Then there is Nolan Smith, who finds himself in a prove-it year. Smith had one strong season but took a step back last year and dealt with some off-the-field issues. He is playing for a contract, which should provide motivation.

Whether that translates to consistent on-field production is a fair question.

The Bryce Huff cautionary tale

The Eagles have seen this kind of situation before. Philadelphia’s highest-paid player on its Super Bowl team was edge rusher Bryce Huff, who ended up as a healthy scratch and is now retired. That is the worst-case scenario for Greenard, who was brought in to be a difference-maker. The talent appears to still be there, but how much does he have left in the tank, and how quickly can he ramp up after missing so much time?

Interior depth gives the Eagles a foundation

Somebody in the edge rusher room has to step up because the interior of the defensive line is loaded. Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis anchor the group, and Moro Ojomo is a name to watch as a depth piece who could carve out a bigger role. If the Eagles can pair that interior dominance with legitimate edge production, Fangio is going to have a field day scheming against opposing offenses.

The talent is there on paper. The health and consistency from the edge rusher group will determine whether this defense reaches its ceiling.