The Eagles' 2026 Evolution: Who Steps Up?
The Philadelphia Eagles are no strangers to upheaval. Year after year, they’ve faced significant roster turnover, forcing them to rely on internal growth and unexpected breakouts. 2026 is no different. With key departures and a looming trade, the Eagles are poised for another season of reshuffling. But who will rise to the occasion? Let’s dive into six players I believe will have elevated roles—and why their success (or failure) could define the Eagles’ trajectory.
DeVonta Smith: From Sidekick to Superstar?
One thing that immediately stands out is DeVonta Smith’s impending transformation. For years, he’s been the Robin to A.J. Brown’s Batman. But with Brown’s departure, Smith isn’t just stepping into the WR1 role—he’s inheriting the weight of an entire passing game.
What makes this particularly fascinating is Smith’s history. At Alabama, he wasn’t always the guy. He shared the spotlight with future NFL stars like Calvin Ridley and Jaylen Waddle. Yet, in his senior year, when the stage was his alone, he delivered a Heisman-winning, championship-clinching performance.
Personally, I think the Eagles are betting on that version of Smith. The organization believes he’s wired to be an alpha, and I agree. But here’s the catch: the NFL is a different beast. Defenses will scheme against him relentlessly, and the pressure to carry the offense will be immense. If he succeeds, it’s a game-changer. If he falters, the Eagles’ passing attack could sputter.
What many people don’t realize is that Smith’s success isn’t just about stats—it’s about leadership. Can he command the respect of Jalen Hurts and the locker room? That’s the real question.
Jihaad Campbell: The Next Great Eagles Linebacker?
Jihaad Campbell is a player I’ve been watching closely. Drafted 31st overall in 2025, he was hailed as a steal—until injury concerns pushed him down boards. But Campbell defied expectations, recovering from labrum surgery faster than anyone anticipated.
What this really suggests is that Campbell is more than just a physical talent—he’s mentally tough. His rookie season was a rollercoaster: starting strong, losing his job to Nakobe Dean, and then quietly waiting for his next opportunity. That maturity is rare in a 22-year-old.
From my perspective, Campbell’s 2026 role is pivotal. With Dean gone, he’s the heir apparent at linebacker. But there’s a wrinkle: another shoulder surgery will sideline him for most of the offseason. If you take a step back and think about it, this could be a blessing in disguise. Campbell has time to refine his pass-rushing skills, an area where he’s still raw.
The Eagles’ defense needs him to be more than just a run-stopper. If he can develop into a hybrid edge/linebacker threat, he could be the cornerstone of this defense for years.
Tank Bigsby: The Forgotten Man?
Tank Bigsby’s story is one of missed opportunities. Traded for in 2025, he was miscast as a kick returner and underutilized as a runner. But when given a chance, he flashed brilliance—averaging 5.9 yards per carry, nearly two yards better than Saquon Barkley.
What’s frustrating is how the Eagles handled him. Why trade two draft picks for a player you barely use? In my opinion, it’s a coaching failure. Bigsby’s explosive running style could have complemented Barkley’s power, but instead, he was relegated to garbage time.
This raises a deeper question: Will new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion finally unlock Bigsby’s potential? If so, the Eagles’ backfield could be a strength. But if history repeats itself, Bigsby will remain an afterthought—and that would be a shame.
Drew Kendall: The Unsung Hero?
Drew Kendall isn’t a household name, but he could be the Eagles’ secret weapon in 2026. A fifth-round pick in 2025, he spent most of the season as a healthy scratch. But here’s the detail I find especially interesting: he cross-trained at guard and center, making him a versatile backup.
With Landon Dickerson and Cam Jurgens battling injuries last season, the Eagles’ interior line depth was exposed. Kendall could be the first man off the bench, and in a league where injuries are inevitable, that’s a critical role.
What this really suggests is that Kendall’s value lies in his adaptability. He won’t be a Pro Bowler, but he could be the difference between a collapsed pocket and a Super Bowl run.
Jeremiah Trotter: The Special Teams Ace Turned Starter?
Jeremiah Trotter is the epitome of a grinder. Overshadowed by higher-profile linebackers, he’s carved out a role as a special teams standout. But with Nakobe Dean’s departure, Trotter could finally get his shot as a rotational linebacker.
What many people don’t realize is that Trotter’s lack of size and athleticism is offset by his football IQ. He’s a smart, instinctive player who knows how to be in the right place at the right time.
In my opinion, Trotter’s role in 2026 will be defined by opportunity. If Jihaad Campbell or Zack Baun goes down, Trotter will be the next man up. And given the physical demands of the NFL, that’s not an if—it’s a when.
Ty Robinson: Now or Never?
Ty Robinson is at a crossroads. Drafted in the fourth round in 2025, he barely saw the field as a rookie. With just 104 snaps, he’s running out of time to prove himself.
A detail that I find especially interesting is Robinson’s age. At 25, he’s older than most second-year players, which means the Eagles expected him to contribute sooner. But so far, he’s been outshined by younger players like Moro Ojomo.
If you take a step back and think about it, 2026 is make-or-break for Robinson. The Eagles’ defensive line depth is thin, and he needs to step into a rotational role. If he can’t, it’s hard to see him sticking around much longer.
Final Thoughts: A Season of Uncertainty and Opportunity
The Eagles’ 2026 season is a gamble. They’re relying on players like DeVonta Smith and Jihaad Campbell to take massive leaps, while hoping unproven talents like Tank Bigsby and Ty Robinson finally deliver.
Personally, I think this team has the potential to surprise—but only if everything breaks right. The margin for error is razor-thin, and one injury or underperformance could derail their season.
What this really suggests is that the Eagles are at a crossroads. Are they a contender or a rebuilder? The answer lies in the hands of these six players. And as we’ve seen time and again, in the NFL, anything can happen.
