Eagles Activate Nolan Smith, Elevate Patrick Johnson for Monday Night Football vs. Packers

The Philadelphia Eagles made a critical roster move just hours before their Monday Night Football showdown, activating linebacker Nolan Smith from Injured Reserve and elevating defensive end Patrick Johnson from the practice squad. The announcements, confirmed at 1:15 p.m. Eastern Time on November 10, 2025, came as a relief to fans who’ve watched the team’s pass rush sputter without Smith’s explosive energy. The Eagles face the Green Bay Packers at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on November 11, 2025, at 8:15 p.m. ET — a nationally televised clash with playoff implications.

Smith’s Long Road Back

Nolan Smith, the 25-year-old first-round pick out of the University of Georgia, hadn’t played since Week 3. He suffered a torn triceps during the Eagles’ 27-24 win over the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on September 22, 2025. The injury forced him onto Injured Reserve the next day, sidelining him for the mandatory minimum four games — but he ended up missing five, as the Eagles waited for him to fully regain strength and timing.

The 21-day practice window, opened on October 21, 2025, gave the team time to evaluate his progress. Smith didn’t just show up to practice — he dominated. According to sources inside the NovaCare Complex, he recorded multiple sacks in walkthroughs and was graded as a full participant in every session from November 7 through 9. His return isn’t just about filling a spot; it’s about restoring the Eagles’ ability to collapse the pocket from the edge.

Why Patrick Johnson? The Unsung Elevator

While Smith’s return grabbed headlines, Patrick Johnson’s elevation might be the smarter long-term play. A 27-year-old undrafted free agent from Tulane University, Johnson has spent four seasons bouncing between the practice squad and the active roster. He’s not a star, but he’s reliable. In his three appearances this season, he logged 12 defensive snaps and forced a fumble against the New York Giants in Week 6.

The Eagles needed depth. Their starting defensive ends, Javon Hargrave and Josh Sweat, have been playing heavy minutes. With the Packers’ offense averaging 382.4 yards per game — and quarterback Jordan Love showing improved mobility — Philadelphia needed bodies who can chase down scrambles. Johnson fits that mold. He’s not flashy, but he’s smart, disciplined, and knows the scheme cold.

Behind the Scenes: Medical and Coaching Decisions

The decision to activate Smith didn’t come from the coaching staff alone. It was a joint call from Head Athletic Trainer Rick Burkholder and Head Team Physician Dr. David Galbraith, who monitored his rehab at the Rothman Institute. Smith’s triceps repair required a six-week healing window, but his strength returned faster than expected. “He’s not just healed,” one insider told Bleeding Green Nation. “He’s hungry. You can see it in his eyes.”

Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio said Smith will rotate with Sweat and Hargrave, likely playing 35-40 snaps. His ability to rush the passer from both inside and outside will give the Packers’ offensive line a new headache. “He’s got that quick first step,” Fangio said after practice. “We missed that.”

The Bigger Picture: Eagles’ Playoff Push

The Eagles enter Week 10 with a 7-2 record, one game ahead of the Packers (6-3) in the NFC standings. This isn’t just another game — it’s a statement opportunity. With Jalen Hurts back to full health and the offense clicking, the defense needed to step up. Smith’s return could be the missing piece.

And the timing? Perfect. The Eagles face the Dallas Cowboys next week, then the San Francisco 49ers in Week 12 — both top-five offenses. Smith’s presence gives them flexibility. They can now blitz more, drop into coverage with confidence, and trust their edge rushers won’t wear down.

What’s Next?

The Eagles also waived linebacker Davion Taylor and signed Ben Niemann to the practice squad — moves that suggest they’re preparing for potential injuries down the stretch. Smith’s return doesn’t mean Johnson is gone. He’ll likely be elevated again next week, especially if the team wants to rest veterans.

For now, the focus is Monday night. The crowd at Lincoln Financial Field will be electric. And when Smith sprints onto the field for the first time in over two months, the roar won’t just be for the play — it’ll be for the comeback.