Nolan Smith: Everything you need to know

Smith was arrested last Friday in Georgia and is accused of speeding and reckless driving, Tim McManus of ESPN.com reports. According to a representative of the Twiggs County Sheriff's Office, Smith's vehicle was clocked at 130 miles per hour in a 70 mph zone while the 25-year-old was driving on the interstate. A court date for Smith's case has been set for July 14, though he wouldn't have to appear if he agrees to pay the fines associated with his citations. A 2023 first-round draft pick, Smith has accrued 10.5 sacks and 25 quarterback hits over 45 career games during the regular season and was a standout performer in the Eagles' run to the Super Bowl in 2024, when he racked up 4.0 sacks in four playoff contests.

The Eagles exercised Smith's fifth-year option Monday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports. Smith will earn another $13.7 million, guaranteeing his services to the Eagles through 2027. The linebacker is coming off a slightly disappointing season that was spoiled by a lingering triceps injury he originally suffered during training camp. Despite the issue, Smith still started 12 regular-season games, logging 31 tackles (15 solo), including 3.0 sacks. Headed into 2026 healthy, Smith will look to produce a year similar to his 2024 season (42 tackles, including 6.5 sacks), which would help greatly in long-term extension discussions with the organization.

Smith played 12 regular-season games during the 2025 campaign, tallying 31 tackles (15 solo), including 3.0 sacks, and one forced fumble. Smith was sidelined on IR for five games with a triceps injury, leading to a corresponding drop in production. The 2023 first-round pick started all 12 of his games this season, but he played over 50 percent of defensive snaps just eight times. In three years, Smith has accumulated 9.5 sacks over 45 regular-season games. He figures to play a similar rotational role during the final year of his rookie contract in 2026.