ESPN analyst flags two under-the-radar Eagles defensive linemen for 2026 breakout

Philadelphia’s defensive line is widely viewed as one of the deepest position groups in the NFL, anchored by established names like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. But ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler believes the next wave of the unit could make noise sooner than expected.

In a recent preview, Fowler pointed to defensive tackles Byron Young and Ty Robinson as the pair most likely to “surprise people” during the 2026 season. Neither player has drawn much attention so far, with Carter, Davis, and Moro Ojomo occupying the spotlight on the interior.

Why the timing matters

The stakes could rise quickly. Ojomo is reportedly positioned for a significant contract if his breakout continues, and his potential departure in free agency would open a substantial gap in the rotation. A step forward from Young or Robinson would soften that blow and give Philadelphia a five-player interior group that offenses would struggle to plan around.

Young, a former Las Vegas Raiders draft pick, has appeared in a reserve role for the Eagles and has recorded 2.5 sacks across his career, all in Philadelphia. He appeared in all 17 games last season, giving the club reliable depth off the bench.

Robinson’s path has been more turbulent. Concerns about his performance had some observers questioning whether he would survive final roster cuts. His preseason answered those questions emphatically: he posted a sack and two tackles in the opener, then added two more sacks and four tackles in Week 2 before a quieter finale. His three preseason sacks were enough to secure his standing and turn heads internally.

Off the edge, Jalyx Hunt is another name circled for a potential leap, adding to a front that already ranks among the league’s most formidable.

Media context

The story is a reminder of how central NFL preseason coverage has become for sports media companies. The Walt Disney Company, ESPN’s parent, trades at $105.03, up 0.82% from a previous close of $104.18, with a market capitalization of roughly $181.8 billion. Disney’s Sports segment, which houses ESPN, remains a key driver of the company’s engagement with football audiences as the regular season approaches.

For Philadelphia, the preseason performances of Young and Robinson have already altered the depth-chart conversation. Whether that translates into regular-season production will shape how the Eagles manage the interior line — and how they approach Ojomo’s contract situation.

What to watch

• Regular-season snap counts and rotation usage for Robinson and Young as the 2026 campaign begins.
• Progress on a potential contract extension for Moro Ojomo ahead of free agency.
• Week 1 inactives and roster moves following final cutdowns.
• Disney’s next quarterly earnings report for updates on ESPN and the Sports segment.

Source: original release