Okoronkwo’s torn triceps would push the Eagles’ edge depth toward a breaking point, likely forcing Ojulari into a bigger role while Smith, Hunt and Johnson absorb more snaps. With Nolan Smith already on IR, Sunday’s matchup with Denver becomes a pivotal test for the rotation and for any external help Howie Roseman might pursue.

The group has produced minimal pressure this season (five sacks total), and Vic Fangio’s preference for four edge rushers active on game day sharpens the urgency to find a workable mix. If Okoronkwo is out, Ojulari’s involvement bills as a key fantasy lever for the week ahead and beyond.

Philadelphia’s season-opening win spotlighted a glaring roster hole: a shaky No. 2 outside corner opposite Adoree' Jackson. The Eagles promoted Patrick Johnson and added Tank Bigsby, signaling shift in the backfield depth amid Will Shipley’s rib injury. Za'Darius Smith joined to bolster the pass rush, but the secondary remains the focal point as the team pushes for quick fixes to avoid costly setbacks in big games.

Draft-day pivots aside, the organization's latest moves emphasize a two-pronged approach: shore up the edge with Smith and strengthen the outside corners with Jackson and Bennett, while preserving a stable RB room with Bigsby. If the secondary isn’t stabilized soon, even a win like Week 1 won’t excuse a recurring matchup problem against sharper offenses.

Patrick Johnson and Marcus Epps were elevated by Philadelphia for the home opener vs Dallas, adding edge rush help and safety depth as the Eagles shuffle a veteran-heavy group for a prime-time clash. With Tanner McKee sidelined, Kyle McCord wasn’t activated, leaving Hurts to lead and Sam Howell as backup in a game plan that leans on the run game and special teams.

Britain Covey could handle punt returns while DeJean or Dotson take returns, and the trio of Blankenship, Sydney Brown and Drew Mukuba anchors the safety corps. Fantasy angles tilt toward Hurts as the clear centerpiece; Johnson and Epps provide depth more than direct Week 1 value.

Eagles should resist veteran signings after rosters are set. Isaiah Simmons’ release by Green Bay suggests caution with aging names; Philly should prioritize internal depth over high-priced reclamations. The path to pressure is through development, not nostalgia.

The LB corps—Nakobe Dean, Smael Mondon, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell—offers youth and upside, with Dean aiming for action by Week 5. Patrick Johnson’s release reinforces a depth-first approach. Rumors of Gilmore or Clowney are noted, but Travon Walker from Jacksonville stands out as a potential, long-term edge option rather than a quick fix.

Bottom line: avoid big-name past-prime deals; lean into the current group and smart, cost-effective additions that preserve chemistry and ceiling for fantasy value.