Nolan Smith Injury Update: Eagles Place OLB on IR, Eye November Return

Nolan Smith is heading to injured reserve after the Philadelphia Eagles confirmed the move on Wednesday. The team placed Smith, cornerback Jakorian Bennett, and wide receiver Darius Cooper on IR while signing three players to the active roster. The main keyword “Nolan Smith injury update” has been making headlines as the Eagles reshuffle their lineup early in the season.

The Eagles are 3-0 this year, but Smith’s absence will test their defensive depth. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Smith strained his triceps and is expected to miss several weeks. The Eagles hope to have him back against the Green Bay Packers on November 10 after the team’s bye week.

Nolan Smith Injury Update and Official Details

Smith had offseason surgery on his triceps following the Super Bowl and recently aggravated the same injury. This setback forced the Eagles to move him to IR, ruling him out for at least four games. The roster changes also saw the team add safety Marcus Epps, tight end Cameron Latu, and cornerback Parry Nickerson to the 53-man squad.

The former Georgia Bulldogs star showed his potential in 2024, recording 6.5 sacks during the regular season and four more in the playoffs. His impact helped the Eagles capture the Super Bowl. Head coach Nick Sirianni praised his development, saying patience was key to Smith’s breakout. In his rookie season, Smith managed just 1.5 sacks, but his growth was clear last year.

In 2025, Smith has appeared in three games and tallied 10 tackles with three pressures. While those numbers are modest, his role as a versatile pass rusher remains vital. The Eagles now face the challenge of adjusting their defensive scheme until Smith returns.

Impact on the Eagles’ Season

Philadelphia’s defense has been central to their strong 3-0 start, which includes wins over the Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Rams. Losing Smith temporarily means leaning on other linebackers and edge players. The Eagles’ front office responded quickly, bolstering depth with new signings.

Fans and analysts alike will monitor how the team handles upcoming games without Smith. The timeline points to a possible return in mid-November, giving the Eagles hope he can contribute in the second half of the season. If Smith picks up where he left off in 2024, his comeback could provide a major boost heading into the playoff push.

The Nolan Smith injury update highlights both the risks of lingering injuries and the importance of roster flexibility. While the Eagles lose a key defender, the team remains confident in maintaining its momentum until his return.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Nolan Smith injury update?

He strained his triceps and was placed on injured reserve. He is expected back after the bye week in November.

Q2: When could Nolan Smith return to play?

Reports suggest he may return for the Eagles’ game against the Green Bay Packers on November 10.

Q3: How has Nolan Smith performed this season?

In three games, he recorded 10 tackles and three pressures before the injury setback.

Q4: How will the Eagles manage without Nolan Smith?

The team signed three players to strengthen depth and will rely on other linebackers and pass rushers until Smith returns.

Q5: What impact did Nolan Smith have last season?

He recorded 6.5 sacks in the regular season and a team-record four sacks in the playoffs, helping the Eagles win the Super Bowl.