Philadelphia Eagles rookie outside linebacker Nolan Smith, who fell to 30th overall in the first round of this year's NFL draft, has shown than he's a high-energy player during offseason practices. With some of the team's top edge rushers missing from offseason workouts, Smith got plenty of run with the first-team defense, with his quickness and motor standing out. It's clear that he will be in full suit of opposing ball-carriers until the whistle is blown. The 22-year-old has impressive speed and could end up being a steal towards the end of the first round. It will be interesting how his 240-pound frame holds up at the point of attack against bigger offensive lineman at the next level.
Eagles Take Another Defender In Nolan Smith At No. 30
The Philadelphia Eagles selected University of Georgia edge rusher Nolan Smith with the No. 30 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft on Thursday night. The Eagles were expected to place an emphasis on their defensive line early in this year's draft, and that's exactly what they did by taking Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter at No. 9 and Smith at No. 30 in Round 1. If both of those players reach their ceilings, the Eagles D-line could be extremely nasty. Smith was an anchor of the Bulldogs' defense despite being a bit undersized at 6-foot-2, 238 pounds. The 22-year-old has eye-popping speed and explosiveness from sideline to sideline and should be on the IDP radar eventually if he stays healthy.
Nolan Smith Jr.
• OLB
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Eagles
