Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jalyx Hunt
Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jalyx Hunt | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
One thing was clear from the Philadelphia Eagles' training camp: edge rusher Jalyx Hunt would be really good in 2026, and he showed it in Week 1 against the Washington Commanders.
The Eagles picked up a much-needed 24-22 win over the Commanders, giving them some momentum. Philly's defense held Washington in check for most of the game but tired by the end after spending so much time on the field.
Guys like Zack Baun and Jalen Carter were forces on the Eagles' defense, but Hunt was truly playing at a whole different level. His sack production may not have been there, but wow, he was certainly making life miserable for Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Jalyx Hunt was all over the place for the Eagles in Week 1 vs. Commanders
Looking at the basic stat line, Hunt only had three tackles. That doesn't sound like enough for everyone to celebrate, but he pressured Daniels all day.
SumerSports released the pass-rush win-rate leaders ahead of Monday Night Football, when the Kansas City Chiefs face the Denver Broncos. Hunt led the list with 29.6% in the win over the Commanders.
The X account, NFL Researcher, shared the most pressures by a defender also ahead of Monday Night Football. Hunt was tied for fifth on the list with seven.
Most QB pressures in Week 1 through Sunday, per @NextGenStats…
1. Aidan Hutchinson – 10
1. Dallas Turner – 10
3. Trey Hendrickson – 8
3. Blake Cashman – 8
5. Tavius Robinson – 7
5. Jalyx Hunt - 7
— NFL Researcher (@NFL_Researcher) September 14, 2026
Hunt was great last season in his breakout year in the NFL, leading the Eagles in sacks (6.5) and interceptions (three), the first player in franchise history to do so. He also had 52 tackles, 24 quarterback hits, nine tackles for loss, three pass deflections, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one pick-six in 17 games. Hunt also had 55 pressures and 31 hurries in the 2025 season.
This guy showed off his versatility early and often in 2025. The same thing happened in Week 1, with his pass-rushing skills on full display. Last season showed that he can drop back into coverage and still pressure the quarterback the very next play; that kind of versatility is rare among NFL edge rushers these days.
He faced more pressure, though, with Jonathan Greenard ruled out and Hunt needing to step up. He certainly was able to do that and was the Eagles' best pass rusher in the game. Hunt may not be the perfect defender yet, but Philly needs to develop him for the future.
Depending on what happens with Greenard, Hunt and Nolan Smith Jr. could still be off the edge as starters for the Eagles' Week 2 game against the Tennessee Titans. Hunt has every reason to become a full-time starter whenever Greenard is ready to go.
Read more:Landon Dickerson's surprising trip to IR now opens 2 pathways for Eagles
Philly should consider itself lucky to have found Hunt in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft and to have developed him into the potential superstar he is now. He's quickly becoming one of the best players on this Eagles' elite defense because he's better than most at his age.
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