The Philadelphia Eagles' 2025 season was a disappointment, finishing 11-6 and failing to make it past the first round of the playoffs. With a new year comes new expectations, and the Eagles have a few key players who will be under the microscope in 2026. Will they rebound from their down seasons, or will they regress further? Let's take a closer look at 11 Eagles players who had down seasons in 2025 and project their chances of a bounce-back year.
QB Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts had a difficult season, with the Eagles' offense struggling under his leadership. The team was slow to get out of the huddle, and Hurts' play sequencing and personnel decisions were often questionable. However, Hurts has a history of responding to scrutiny, and with a new offensive coordinator, he may be able to turn things around. Personally, I think Hurts will rebound, but it won't be easy. The scheme can't be worse than it was last year, right? I'm optimistic, but it's a tough call.
RB Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley had an incredible 2024 season, but 2025 was a step back. He had fewer touches and didn't seem to have the same explosive juice. Barkley won't have another season like 2024, but he should be more efficient in 2026. I predict a half rebound, as he regains his form and becomes a force again.
C Cam Jurgens
Cam Jurgens had a back injury in 2024 and underwent a procedure to alleviate nerve pain. He missed most of training camp and didn't play to his standard in 2025. However, he's now healthier and participated fully in spring practices. I believe Jurgens will rebound, but it won't be easy. Back injuries are tricky, and he'll need to stay healthy.
LG Landon Dickerson
Landon Dickerson has a long history of injuries, and 2025 was no different. He battled through various ailments and looked banged up consistently. I'm less confident in Dickerson's rebound than in Jurgens'. His injury history is a concern, and I predict a regression in 2026.
RT Lane Johnson
Lane Johnson was still an elite player when healthy in 2025, but he missed eight games with a Lisfranc injury. He's not injury-prone, and I expect him to rebound in 2026. He's in great shape and has a history of staying healthy.
TE Dallas Goedert
Dallas Goedert had a drastic drop-off in blocking efficiency in 2025, despite staying healthy. At 31 years old, tight ends don't typically age well, and I predict his decline will accelerate in 2026. I'm concerned about his future performance.
iDL Jalen Carter
Jalen Carter had a disappointing season after an All-Pro performance in 2024. He dealt with shoulder issues and had a procedure on both shoulders. However, he's in a better spot now, and I expect him to rebound in 2026. His talent is undeniable, and he'll be a force again.
EDGE Jonathan Greenard
Jonathan Greenard had his two best seasons in 2023 and 2024, but struggled in 2025 due to a shoulder injury. He'll get a fresh start in Philly and is projected as the Eagles' top pass rusher. I predict a rebound, as he regains his form and becomes a key player.
EDGE Nolan Smith
Nolan Smith had a breakout season in 2024 but struggled in 2025 due to a triceps injury. He's a rugged player, but his health is a concern. I'm not sure we'll see the Nolan Smith of 2024 again, and I predict a regression in 2026.
CB Riq Woolen
Riq Woolen had a strong spring training, and I believe he'll rebound in 2026. The Seahawks let him walk in free agency, and the Eagles showed they don't want him to leave. I predict an improvement, as he regains his form and becomes a key player.
K Jake Elliott
Jake Elliott has become too unreliable over the last two seasons, and I predict a regression in 2026. He doesn't have the power leg that many other kickers have, and his reliability is a concern. It's hard to confidently predict an improvement.
In conclusion, the Eagles have a few key players who will be under the microscope in 2026. While some may rebound, others may regress further. It's a tough call, but I'm optimistic about the team's future. The Eagles have a history of responding to scrutiny, and with a new year comes new opportunities. Let's see if they can turn things around and have a successful 2026 season.
