The Philadelphia Eagles possess one of the NFL's most complete rosters, but even championship contenders enter every season with players who must step up and provide more.
The Birds are stacked with young players and key veterans preparing to inherit larger roles. Others are veterans attempting to reestablish themselves after uneven performances. As the season opener against Washington looms,t here are a handful of players on the roster who need to take another jump.
Here are five Eagles who must improve during the 2026 season.
Smith enters a pivotal stage of his development after having his fifth-year option exercised. His speed and effort have never been questioned, but Philadelphia needs him to become a more consistent pass-rushing threat who can win without being schemed into favorable situations. Jonathan Greenard, A.J. Epenesa, Arnold Ebiketie and Jalyx Hunt give Vic Fangio options on the edge. Smith must separate himself by finishing pressures and holding up against the run.
Steen's physical ability has always made him an intriguing option along the interior offensive line. Now, the Eagles need dependable week-to-week production from a player who has Pro Bowl potential. He must play with better balance in pass protection, recognize pressure more quickly, and eliminate the lapses that can derail otherwise productive possessions. A strong season in a contract year would stabilize the offensive line and reduce the need to accelerate the development of Philadelphia's younger blockers.
#Eagles #philadelphia #Veterans
The Birds are stacked with young players and key veterans preparing to inherit larger roles. Others are veterans attempting to reestablish themselves after uneven performances. As the season opener against Washington looms,t here are a handful of players on the roster who need to take another jump.
Here are five Eagles who must improve during the 2026 season.
Smith enters a pivotal stage of his development after having his fifth-year option exercised. His speed and effort have never been questioned, but Philadelphia needs him to become a more consistent pass-rushing threat who can win without being schemed into favorable situations. Jonathan Greenard, A.J. Epenesa, Arnold Ebiketie and Jalyx Hunt give Vic Fangio options on the edge. Smith must separate himself by finishing pressures and holding up against the run.
Steen's physical ability has always made him an intriguing option along the interior offensive line. Now, the Eagles need dependable week-to-week production from a player who has Pro Bowl potential. He must play with better balance in pass protection, recognize pressure more quickly, and eliminate the lapses that can derail otherwise productive possessions. A strong season in a contract year would stabilize the offensive line and reduce the need to accelerate the development of Philadelphia's younger blockers.
#Eagles #philadelphia #Veterans
2 months ago
