Eagles' Nolan Smith Placed on IR with Triceps Injury, Reportedly Eyes Return After Bye

The Philadelphia Eagles placed outside linebacker Nolan Smith on injured reserve with a triceps injury, the team announced Wednesday.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Smith strained his triceps during the Eagles' 33-26 win over the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday and is expected to remain out through the team's Week 9 bye.

He "could" return against the Green Bay Packers on Nov. 10, per Schefter.

Smith previously tore his triceps during Philadelphia's Super Bowl LIX victory and later underwent surgery. Schefter noted that he "aggravated" the same injury against Los Angeles.

The 24-year-old didn't register a sack to open his 2025 campaign, but remained a key piece of the Eagles' front seven. Smith recorded 10 tackles, one quarterback hit and one forced fumble in three appearances.

He also racked up eight pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.

Smith was selected by Philadelphia with a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, primarily operating on special teams as a rookie before carving out a role on the team's first-string defense in 2024.

He amassed eight tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks in 16 games last season, including 10 starts. Smith stepped up during the Eagles' playoff run that culminated in a championship, registering four sacks and one forced fumble in four postseason appearances.

Philadelphia will rely on several contributors to make up for Smith's upcoming absence including Jalyx Hunt, Joshua Uche and Za'Darius Smith. Patrick Johnson and Azeez Ojulari are also candidates to receive more snaps moving forward.

The Eagles currently sit atop the NFC East standings with a 3-0 record as they begin their Super Bowl defense.