What excites – As the Philadelphia Eagles shift into the 2026 season timeline, Vic Fangio said Jonathan Greenard’s value goes beyond sack numbers—emphasizing how Greenard’s career pressure on quarterbacks and run defense strength fits a room built around Jalyx Hunt, Nolan Sm
With NFL free agency, the NFL Draft, and rookie minicamp officially in the rearview, Philadelphia Eagles fans have started counting down the days until they can see the 2026 version of their team in meaningful action.
For returning defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, that wait comes with a familiar question from reporters: what does Jonathan Greenard actually bring—beyond the headlines that often focus on sacks?
Fangio didn’t hesitate when asked what excites him most about the newest addition to the edge group. “That he’s been a good pass rusher. He’s been productive in the rush,” Fangio said via NBC’s John Clark. “He’s had years where he’s had good numbers sack-wise. but like we always discuss. pressure on the quarterback is also important. and he’s been able to do that throughout his career. I think he’s strong on the edge versus the run game. We’re excited to have him, but I think there’s a lot of good there.”.
The praise came with a specific emphasis: Fangio wants the Eagles’ edge production to do more than simply show up in the stat column. Pressure matters, and Fangio pointed to Greenard’s long track record of getting it done as a reason the fit is worth excitement.
Fangio then turned his attention to another player in the same line of work. Jalyx Hunt—expected to play a major role in his third year—was also part of the conversation. When asked what Fangio expects from Hunt as he prepares to enter a contract year in 2027. Fangio said he’s watching a different kind of growth. the kind that doesn’t always show up immediately. “That he’s been a good pass rusher. He’s been productive in
the rush. He’s had years where he’s had good numbers sack-wise. but like we always discuss. pressure on the quarterback is also important and he’s been able to do that throughout his career. I think he’s strong on the edge versus the run game. We’re excited to have him, but I think there’s a lot of good there. With Jaelan Phillips leaving the City of Brotherly Love for a massive $120 million contract with the
Carolina Panthers. the Eagles really did need to add another rusher to a room that also features Hunt. Nolan Smith. and a returning Brandon Graham.
For Eagles fans, the timing matters. Phillips’ exit created a clear need, and Greenard’s addition adds another name to an edge rotation already shaped by Hunt’s expected rise, Nolan Smith’s presence, and Brandon Graham’s return.
Only time will tell whether Greenard can recapture the double-digit sack form he posted in 2023-24. but if Fangio’s reaction is the measurement. the sense of possibility is already in the building—one fueled not just by past production. but by the pressure Fangio believes can change how games unfold.
Vic Fangio Jonathan Greenard Philadelphia Eagles Jalyx Hunt Nolan Smith Brandon Graham Jaelan Phillips Carolina Panthers NFL free agency NFL Draft rookie minicamp