Nebraska’s 12-week countdown to Cincinnati begins with Riley Van Poppel as the program’s 2nd-most indispensable piece. The list shines a light on players who must elevate their games for the Huskers to take a meaningful step forward in 2025, even if none of them become the season’s best. Two weeks out from Arrowhead, the focus is squarely on the front seven and the run game, where Van Poppel is expected to anchor the defense and occasionally pressure the quarterback.

Last year’s attention on stopping the run—exemplified by Nebraska clamping Ohio State’s ground game—leaves a vacuum after Ty Robinson and Nash Hutmacher left for the NFL. Van Poppel, a Texas native at 6’5” and 295 pounds, could seize that vacancy early, wearing a single-digit jersey chosen by teammates as a symbol of grit and work ethic. If he reaches a high run-stopping ceiling and can disrupt plays in the backfield, the door to a potential playoff conversation won’t be firmly closed.

Beyond Van Poppel, the countdown underscores the importance of a disciplined, physical run defense and timely quarterback pressure as Nebraska eyes meaningful improvement in 2025. It’s a brand-new chapter, but the stakes remain high: the opportunity to reshape the ceiling for this program starts with a handful of players ready to answer the bell in training camp and early-season action.

Ty Robinson, a former Nebraska defensive tackle, made an impressive debut in the NFL, recording his first sack with the Philadelphia Eagles during a preseason matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Eagles, who selected Robinson in the draft, displayed confidence in his abilities, and his performance is a promising sign for the team's defensive line moving forward.

Robinson's transition to the NFL has been widely anticipated, as he brings a blend of size and agility that could be pivotal for the Eagles' defensive strategies. As he continues to develop, fans will be eager to see how he integrates into the team's defensive schemes.

The Philadelphia Eagles, hailed for having one of the best rosters in the NFL, were surprisingly omitted from a prestigious list of elite players curated by league executives. Despite offseason losses, the Eagles remain confident in their depth and talent, bolstered by strategic draft picks and savvy low-risk signings.

Among the standout prospects on their roster is Ty Robinson, who is being touted as a potential star. Additionally, Andrew Mukuba, a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate, is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. With these promising players, the Eagles are set to challenge expectations and build on their success from last season.

As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for training camp, the focus shifts to their impressive rookie class from the 2023 NFL Draft, particularly looking ahead to their potential impact in 2025. Among the standout players is Andrew Mukuba, a versatile safety expected to make an immediate impact with his exceptional coverage skills. Another key addition, Jihaad Campbell, brings promising tackling ability and pass-rush potential to the linebacker corps. Defensive tackle Ty Robinson is also anticipated to enhance the Eagles' defensive line. Alongside these, Mac McWilliams adds depth to the secondary, showcasing the Eagles' strategic focus on bolstering both defense and special teams.

General Manager Howie Roseman has successfully crafted another Super Bowl window with this draft class, emphasizing immediate contributions as a significant indicator of success. The Eagles' approach this season could redefine their defensive identity, particularly as they integrate these promising talents into their scheme. With training camp just around the corner, anticipation builds around how these rookies will adapt and perform in the upcoming season.

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to demonstrate their prowess in scouting late-round defensive talent, a strategy that has consistently yielded impressive results over the years. The latest example, Ty Robinson, a fourth-round pick, appears to be on track to follow in the footsteps of notable predecessors. His potential, combined with the Eagles' strong defensive record, suggests he could become a valuable asset on the field.

With the likes of Josh Sweat already showcasing significant development, Robinson's trajectory may see him contribute early in his career. The Eagles' ability to identify and nurture defensive talent late in the draft is a testament to their scouting department's acumen, which is critical for sustaining competitive edge in the NFL.