Heading into the 2025 season, the Philadelphia Eagles are placing high hopes on Nolan Smith, their third-year pass rusher, after significant roster changes. The departures of Bryce Huff and Josh Sweat, alongside the retirement of Brandon Graham, have left a considerable gap in the pass rush that Smith must fill. Recognized on Pro Football Focus's 'make-or-break' list, Smith is under immense pressure to develop quickly and contribute to the team's Super Bowl aspirations. With the Eagles' depth in the pass rush already tested, his performance this season could be pivotal.

The Arizona Cardinals are counting on outside linebacker Zaven Collins to play a pivotal role in their defense as they look to build upon his promising performances. General Manager Monti Ossenfort has praised Collins, the former first-round pick, for his contributions over the past two seasons, where he showcased his versatility and impact on the field.

Despite the recent signing of Josh Sweat, Ossenfort emphasizes that Collins remains an integral part of their plans moving forward. In 2022, Collins led the Cardinals with five sacks and made significant contributions in tackles and forced fumbles, establishing himself as a key player in various defensive roles.

In a significant reshuffle, the Philadelphia Eagles have made key changes to their defensive lineup by parting ways with notable players like Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, and Brandon Graham. These departures open the door for new talent, including the addition of Bryce Huff, who joins the team to enhance their pass rush. The Eagles aim to reinforce their defense as they prepare for the upcoming season.

This transition suggests the Eagles are making strategic moves to stay competitive within their division and the league. The influx of new players may offer fresh energy and potential to the defensive front, which was pivotal in their previous campaigns.

The Arizona Cardinals' organized team activities (OTAs) have started their second week, showcasing the players present and those who missed practice. Notably absent were outside linebacker BJ Ojulari, who is recovering from an ACL injury, and several newcomers including Josh Sweat, Bilal Nichols, Calais Campbell, and Dalvin Tomlinson. The absence of Justin Jones and Akeem Davis-Gaither is concerning as they were new to the list after attending last week. Budda Baker was seen working on the side, indicating a minor injury. Linebacker Zaven Collins confirmed that Sweat has been present in the building, heightening anticipation for his on-field debut.

The Philadelphia Eagles have faced significant departures along their defensive line this offseason. After a stellar run to the Super Bowl, key players such as Josh Sweat, Brandon Graham, and Milton Williams have left the team, creating a notable void on the defensive front. This loss could impact the Eagles' ability to maintain their defensive prowess, necessitating strategic adjustments as they prepare for the upcoming season.

With the loss of experienced talent, the Eagles will need to rely on younger players to step up and fill these critical roles. The defensive line was a cornerstone of the Eagles' success last season, and maintaining a strong front will be pivotal for their hopes of returning to the playoffs. The team's management must address these gaps quickly if they wish to stay competitive in a tough NFC East.