Nolan Smith Jr. Lands Surprising Ranking Among NFL’s Best Edge Rushers
Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr. has captured the attention of the NFL community after earning a surprising spot on Pro Football Focus’s (PFF) latest ranking of the league’s top 32 edge defenders heading into the 2025 season. Smith’s placement at No. 28 may have caught some fans and analysts off guard, but it reflects his rapid rise and growing influence on one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses.
Smith’s journey to this ranking is impressive, especially considering his relatively short time as a full-time starter. Entering the league as a promising rookie, he initially served as a backup on the Eagles’ defensive line. However, an injury to veteran edge rusher Brandon Graham in the 2024 season opened the door for Smith to step into a more prominent role. He seized the opportunity with determination, showcasing his skills and versatility on both pass rush and run defense.
During the 2024 regular season, Smith registered 50 pressures, which is a key metric in evaluating a defender’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His run defense grade of 74.0 and pass-rush grade of 68.3 from PFF demonstrate a well-rounded player capable of impacting the game in multiple phases. These statistics underline why PFF ranked him among the top edge rushers in the league despite his relatively limited experience.
Smith’s postseason performance was particularly noteworthy and cemented his status as a rising star. In the Eagles’ triumphant run to Super Bowl LIX, Smith led the team with four sacks, playing a critical role in their victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. What makes his postseason performance even more remarkable is that he accomplished this while playing through a torn triceps injury sustained during the second quarter of the Super Bowl itself. Despite the pain and physical limitation, Smith contributed two quarterback hits and took part in more than half of the defensive snaps, showing remarkable toughness and resilience.
The combination of Smith’s statistical output and his ability to perform under pressure has impressed many, though some critics argue that his No. 28 ranking undervalues his true impact on the field. With the departure of longtime Eagles edge rushers Brandon Graham and Josh Sweat, Smith is positioned to take on a larger leadership role within the defense in the upcoming season. This transition could allow him to showcase his talents even more and potentially climb higher in future rankings.
Beyond the numbers, Smith’s rise symbolizes the Eagles’ successful draft strategy and player development system. Drafted with high expectations, Smith has steadily improved his craft, adapting to the NFL’s speed and complexity. His work ethic and football IQ have earned praise from coaches and teammates alike, who see him as a cornerstone of the team’s defensive future.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, many experts expect Nolan Smith Jr. to continue evolving into one of the league’s premier edge rushers. His blend of physicality, technique, and tenacity makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. If he stays healthy and continues to grow, Smith could soon be ranked among the NFL’s elite pass rushers and emerge as a face of the Eagles’ defense for years to come.
In summary, Nolan Smith Jr.’s surprising ranking among the NFL’s best edge rushers is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and emerging talent. From a backup to a key contributor on a Super Bowl-winning team, Smith’s trajectory is on a sharp upward path. The 2025 season will be a critical one to watch as he aims to prove that his ranking is just the beginning of a stellar NFL career.