In a season marked by both challenges and triumphs for the Philadelphia Eagles, Nolan Smith has emerged not only as a formidable player but as a symbol of resilience and tenacity. Selected as the 30th overall pick in the NFL draft, Smith's journey through the 2023 season paints the picture of a player developing before our eyes, culminating in a standout performance that fans and analysts are likely to remember for years to come.
A Promising Start
When Nick Sirianni, the Eagles' head coach, reflects on Smith's progression, his appreciation for the young linebacker is evident. "Nolan has just continued to get better," Sirianni remarked. "His teammates love him. He plays hard as I've ever seen anybody play, and this dude is a physical, physical, physical guy." Despite initial challenges, Smith's dedication and perseverance have been crucial in his development as a key asset for the Eagles.
The early part of the season saw Smith struggle to make an immediate impact, with only three pressures recorded before the bye week. However, this slow start was not indicative of his capabilities. Instead, it showcased the patience and time required for new talent to adapt to the demands of professional football. As Sirianni noted, "It takes some time" for players who were dominant in college to adjust and excel in the NFL.
A Late-Season Surge
The latter part of the 2023 season saw Smith truly coming into his own, particularly through his performance in the playoffs. Against the Green Bay Packers, Smith delivered an awe-inspiring performance with two sacks, five pressures, and two quarterback hits, contributing significantly to the Eagles' victory. His pressure rate in that game was a remarkable 16.7%, illustrating his ability to disrupt the opposing offense effectively.
Overall, Smith concluded the season leading the Eagles with 8.5 sacks, including postseason appearances. Over the last four games alone, he recorded 17 pressures and four sacks, with a pressure rate of 15.9%. These statistics underscore not only his burgeoning talent but also his growing confidence on the field.
The Drive Behind the Success
Smith attributes much of his growth to a "growth mindset," a philosophy he embraces wholeheartedly. "I can always get better," Smith shared, reflecting on his continuous improvement. Furthermore, his motivation stems from a deeply personal place. "I'm supposed to be on a port, I'm supposed to be on the graveyard shift right now, anchoring down boats. So I go out there and I just want to make my momma proud and the 10 guys next to me proud," he explained. "When they turn on the film they know 3 is gonna be flying to the ball." This personal drive is mirrored in his performance and has endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
Coach’s Wisdom and Player’s Growth
Sirianni's emphasis on a patient approach to player development is a cornerstone of nurturing talent like Smith’s. "Guys might not come in and just be world beaters, even though they were ones in college. They might not be world beaters right away," Sirianni reminds us. Patience, as preached by Sirianni, is proving to be a vital ingredient in aiding Smith’s transformation from a promising rookie to a key defensive player.
Nolan Smith's trajectory is a testament to both his individual commitment and the strategic patience of his coaching staff. As the Eagles look to the future, Smith's grit and tenacity herald a promising career ahead. In the high-stakes world of the NFL, it is players like Smith who remind us of the power of perseverance and the sweet reward of hard-fought success.