The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for another season, and with significant changes on the horizon, it's time to take a closer look at some of the players who could step up and take on bigger roles in 2026. While the team has suffered some major losses in free agency, there are still some exciting prospects and under-the-radar players who could make a big impact. Here are six Eagles players who should have elevated importance this season, along with my personal commentary and analysis.
WR DeVonta Smith: From 'One of the Guys' to 'The Guy'
DeVonta Smith has been a consistent starter for the Eagles, but he's yet to truly live up to his potential. With A.J. Brown soon to be traded away, Smith is poised to become the focal point of the Eagles' passing game. This won't be the first time Smith has stepped up; in college at Alabama, he became the unquestioned leader of the passing attack after his teammates were drafted into the NFL. Smith's ability to step up in high-pressure situations is what makes him so fascinating. In my opinion, he's ready to be the alpha receiver on the team and one of the best in the NFL. With the right coaching and support, Smith could become a true game-changer for the Eagles.
LB Jihaad Campbell: A Stealing Selection
The Eagles' selection of Jihaad Campbell in the 2025 draft was hailed as a steal, and for good reason. Despite being injured and missing most of training camp, Campbell quickly impressed with his size, athleticism, and maturity. His ability to step up and take on a bigger role is exactly what the Eagles need from their linebackers. While he has a ways to go as a pass rusher, Campbell's potential is undeniable. Personally, I think he could become a key rotational player in 2026, especially with Nakobe Dean signing with the Raiders. Campbell's recovery timeline and the team's needs make him a player to watch.
RB Tank Bigsby: A Running Back in Waiting
The Eagles' running back situation has been a bit of a mess, but Tank Bigsby could be the solution. While he struggled as a kick returner and didn't get many carries early on, Bigsby proved his worth during a four-game stretch from Weeks 7 to 11. His ability to run effectively and consistently is what makes him so intriguing. In my opinion, the Eagles should have used him more in meaningful games, and maybe Sean Mannion will finally give him the chance he deserves in 2026. With Saquon Barkley still on the team, Bigsby could become a key rotational player and provide a much-needed boost to the Eagles' running game.
iOL Drew Kendall: An Under-the-Radar Backup
Drew Kendall may not be a household name, but he's a key backup for the Eagles' offensive line. With Landon Dickerson and Cam Jurgens battling injuries, Kendall could become an under-the-radar player of importance in 2026. His ability to cross-train at guard and his experience as a healthy scratch make him a valuable asset. In my opinion, Kendall has the potential to become the first guy off the bench at center and maybe guard, providing much-needed depth for the Eagles.
LB Jeremiah Trotter: A Smart and Instinctive Linebacker
Jeremiah Trotter may not have the size or ideal athleticism, but he's a smart and instinctive linebacker. While he didn't get many reps early on in training camp, Trotter has quietly done his job as a core special teamer. With Nakobe Dean signing with the Raiders, Trotter will be the first linebacker off the bench should Jihaad Campbell or Zack Baun go down. In my opinion, he's a key special teams player who could become a rotational linebacker in 2026.
iDL Ty Robinson: A Disappointing Prospect
Ty Robinson was a promising prospect when he was selected in the fourth round of the 2025 draft, but his rookie season was a disappointment. With only 104 snaps played, Robinson needs to step up and beat out the Eagles' backup defensive linemen in his second season. In my opinion, he has the potential to become a rotational player, but he'll need to work hard to prove himself and earn more playing time.
A Look Ahead
As the Eagles gear up for another season, it's clear that some players will step up and take on bigger roles. From DeVonta Smith's potential to become the alpha receiver to Jihaad Campbell's promising debut, there are exciting prospects and under-the-radar players who could make a big impact. With the right coaching and support, these players could become key contributors for the Eagles in 2026. In my opinion, the team has the potential to make a strong run at the playoffs with these players stepping up and taking on bigger roles.
