ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler just dropped a bomb, predicting two Philadelphia Eagles defensive linemen, Byron Young and Ty Robinson, are set to “surprise people” big time in the 2026 season. Seriously, if you thought the Eagles’ defensive line was already elite, get ready for a whole new level of terror for opposing offenses. We’re talking about a unit that’s already got superstars like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, plus Moro Ojomo looking at a major contract if he keeps up his breakout, and Jalyx Hunt ready to explode off the edge. But Fowler’s pointing to the guys flying under the radar, and that’s where the real excitement brews.
The Quiet Storm Brewing in Philly’s Trenches
Fowler didn’t mince words, writing, “Watch for Byron Young and Ty Robinson to become the next young Eagles defensive linemen to surprise people.” And you know what? He’s probably right. These aren’t the names grabbing headlines like Carter, Davis, or even Ojomo, who’s been soaking up the limelight. But with Ojomo potentially heading to the open market and free agency, the Eagles absolutely need Young and Robinson to step up in a huge way. Their breakout isn isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a critical piece of the puzzle for a team already loaded with talent.
From Depth Option to Dominance? The Young & Robinson Story
Let’s talk about Byron Young first. He was a Las Vegas Raiders draft pick, but he’s made his mark with the Eagles, racking up all 2.5 of his NFL career sacks in Philly. Last season, he played in all 17 games, and while he might have been seen as a depth option, he wasn’t a terrible one. That’s a solid foundation. But then there’s Ty Robinson. Man, this guy’s journey is wild. Last season, he wasn’t playing well at all. There were real concerns, enough that he looked like he might not even make the 53-man roster. How’s that for low expectations?
But then preseason hit, and Robinson flipped the script entirely. In Week 1 of the preseason, he bagged 1.0 sack and two total tackles. Impressive. Week 2? He doubled down with 2.0 sacks and four tackles. Even though he only got one tackle assist in the third and final preseason game, his 3.0 sacks in the preseason alone were more than enough to prove he’s someone you absolutely need to watch this season. That kind of turnaround, going from potential cut to a preseason monster, tells you everything you need to know about his drive.
If Fowler’s prediction comes true, and Young and Robinson truly “surprise people,” the Eagles are looking at a defensive line that’s five-players deep and absolutely terrifying. Imagine that kind of rotation, that relentless pressure. It’s not just a problem for opposing offenses; it’s a full-blown nightmare. Keep an eye on these two when the 2026 season kicks off. They might just be the secret weapons everyone’s been overlooking.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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