The Philadelphia Eagles' 2025 season was a study in unmet expectations, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering: What went wrong, and can the team rebound in 2026? As someone who’s followed this team closely, I can tell you that the answer lies not just in the stats, but in the stories behind the players. Let’s dive into the key figures who underperformed last season and explore whether they’re poised for a comeback or further decline.
The Quarterback Conundrum: Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts has always been a player who thrives under pressure, and 2026 will be no different. What makes this particularly fascinating is how much of his 2025 struggles were beyond his control. The Eagles’ offense was a mess of procedural penalties, outdated route concepts, and baffling personnel decisions. Personally, I think Hurts’ ability to rebound hinges less on his talent—which is undeniable—and more on whether the coaching staff can finally build a scheme that maximizes his strengths. If you take a step back and think about it, Hurts has never had two consecutive down seasons. But if 2026 doesn’t go his way, the whispers about his future in Philly will grow louder. My prediction? He’ll rebound, but it’s not just about him—it’s about the system.
The Workhorse Dilemma: Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley’s 2024 season was historic, but it came at a cost. What many people don’t realize is that running backs with heavy workloads rarely sustain their production the following year. Barkley’s 2025 wasn’t a failure; it was a regression to the mean. In my opinion, his 2026 will be better, but not because he’ll return to 2024 form—that’s an unrealistic expectation. Instead, it’s about efficiency. With a healthier offensive line and a scheme that’s historically favored running backs, Barkley should see improvement. But let’s be clear: the turbo-charged version of Barkley is likely a thing of the past.
The Injury-Plagued Linemen: Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson
Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson are two sides of the same coin: both talented, both battling injuries. Jurgens, however, seems to be on the upswing. His stem cell treatments and full participation in spring practices suggest he’s closer to a full recovery. Dickerson, on the other hand, has accumulated a concerning amount of wear and tear. One thing that immediately stands out is how often Dickerson looks physically drained after games. While Jurgens is likely to rebound, Dickerson’s future is less certain. This raises a deeper question: How much can we expect from players with such extensive injury histories?
The Defensive Standouts: Jalen Carter and Jonathan Greenard
Jalen Carter’s 2025 was a head-scratcher, but let’s not forget he was coming off a season where he led all interior defensive linemen in snaps. Fatigue and injuries played a role, but Carter’s talent is undeniable. Personally, I think he’ll bounce back in 2026, especially if his shoulders are truly healed. Jonathan Greenard, meanwhile, is a wild card. His 2025 was marred by injury, but his track record suggests he still has prime years ahead. What this really suggests is that the Eagles’ defensive line could be a force in 2026, provided these players stay healthy.
The Aging Veteran: Dallas Goedert
Dallas Goedert’s decline in run-blocking efficiency is concerning, especially at 31. Tight ends rarely age gracefully, and Goedert’s 2025 performance might be a sign of things to come. In my opinion, his receiving skills will keep him relevant, but his days as a complete tight end are likely behind him. This isn’t just about one player—it’s about the broader trend of how age impacts positional performance.
The Uncertain Future: Nolan Smith and Jake Elliott
Nolan Smith’s undersized frame and rugged playing style make him a high-risk, high-reward player. His 2025 injuries were a setback, and it’s hard to see him returning to 2024 form. Jake Elliott, meanwhile, has become a liability. Missed kicks in critical moments have cost the Eagles dearly. Personally, I think Elliott’s time in Philly might be coming to an end unless he can regain his consistency.
The Wildcard: Riq Woolen
Riq Woolen’s 2025 was a disappointment, but his spring performance with the Eagles has been eye-opening. What makes this particularly fascinating is how quickly he’s adapted to a new system. If his offseason form translates to the regular season, Woolen could be one of the Eagles’ biggest steals. In my opinion, he’s a player to watch in 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Eagles’ 2026 season will be defined by how these players respond to adversity. Some, like Hurts and Carter, seem primed for a rebound. Others, like Dickerson and Elliott, face steeper climbs. What this really suggests is that the Eagles’ success isn’t just about individual talent—it’s about health, scheme, and leadership. If you take a step back and think about it, this team has all the pieces to contend, but only if everything falls into place. Personally, I’m cautiously optimistic, but as we’ve seen, expectations can be a double-edged sword in Philadelphia.
