Eagles Face Edge-Rushing Troubles After Nolan Smith Injury

The Philadelphia Eagles face challenges and opportunities as they approach their Week 4 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Edge rusher Nolan Smith has been placed on injured reserve due to a triceps injury, sidelining him for at least four games and elevating veterans like Za'Darius Smith and Jalyx Hunt into more prominent roles. Despite concerns reminiscent of the 2023 season, the Eagles have started 3-0, showing improvement particularly in pass defense, though run defense and offensive rushing production have room for growth. The Buccaneers' defense, considered one of the NFL's best, aims to pressure quarterback Jalen Hurts with a strong four-man pass rush to disrupt his play and limit the Eagles' run game, which features Saquon Barkley. Both teams will test their defensive strategies in this key early-season contest, with the Eagles seeking to maintain their winning momentum and avoid repeating past struggles.