Philadelphia Eagles adjust edge-rusher rotation for Week 1 matchup against Washington
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 7:54 PM
Last updated Sep 7, 2026

The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for their Week 1 matchup against Washington while managing the availability of edge rusher Jonathan Greenard. Greenard is dealing with a pectoral injury, forcing the team to adjust its pass-rush plans for Sunday's game. Nolan Smith Jr. is expected to handle the largest workload among healthy defenders, though the team intends to monitor his snap count to prevent early-season fatigue. If Greenard remains unavailable, Jalyx Hunt is projected to receive the first opportunity to rotate into the lineup. Additional depth options include A.J. Epenesa, who provides size on early downs, and Arnold Ebiketie, who may see limited snaps in passing situations. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio plans to rely on a rotation of defenders and interior pressure from Jalen Carter to mitigate the impact of Greenard's potential absence.
- •Jonathan Greenard remains uncertain for Sunday's game due to a pectoral injury.
- •Nolan Smith Jr. is positioned for the largest role on the defensive line.
- •Jalyx Hunt and A.J. Epenesa are scheduled for situational rotational work.
- •The Eagles plan to use interior pressure from Jalen Carter to support the edge group.
- 7:54 PMYahoo Sports — Projecting Eagles’ edge-rusher rotation entering Week 1
"Jonathan Greenard’s health will shape Philadelphia’s opening edge-rusher rotation
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