Man, the Eagles’ defense just cannot catch a break. OLB Nolan Smith Jr. got knocked out with a concussion against the Panthers, and he’s been ruled out for the rest of the game, adding another huge hit to their already struggling edge rushers.
Another Edge Rusher Down for Philly
This wasn’t just some sideline tap, either. Smith went down hard on the field and was evaluated right there before heading straight to the locker room without his helmet. It was pretty clear from that moment he wouldn’t be coming back, and the concussion ruling just confirmed it. Before he left, Smith was actually having a solid game, racking up three total tackles and a huge sack on the Panthers’ opening drive. He couldn’t finish it, but that early play showed what he brings.
Who’s Left to Rush the Passer?
The worst part for the Eagles is that Smith’s injury came at a time when he was already stepping up big time. Jalyx Hunt and A.J. Epenesa were already out of this Sunday’s game with their own injuries, elevating Smith’s role even more. Now, the active edge rushers are Jonathan Greenard, Arnold Ebiketie, and Keyshawn James-Newby. James-Newby, by the way, just got elevated from the practice squad for this game, and made his NFL regular season debut right after Smith got sidelined. Talk about being thrown into the fire, huh? This D-line is looking seriously thin.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleeding Green Nation.
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