Former Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Nolan Smith appears to be okay after leaving the Philadelphia Eagles’ second preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. The Eagles tied the Browns 18-18.
Nolan Smith suffered a torn pectoral muscle in October and is still returning to full strength. Smith noted that he was taken out of the game for precautionary reasons.
Smith was a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft. However, he still saw significant playing time in first half of the Philadelphia Eagles’ game against the Browns.
Smith frequently worked his way into the opposing backfield against Cleveland. Smith joins a great defense in Philadelphia. He’s in an ideal situation, where he has several veteran pass rushers to learn from, and will not have to start immediately in the NFL.
Dave Uram of KYW radio shared Nolan Smith’s injury update interview via social media:
Eagles rookie edge rusher Nolan Smith said after last night’s preseason game that he felt good despite being pulled with a shoulder injury. He indicated it was precautionary. @KYWNewsradio pic.twitter.com/PpcIIH6sGX
— Dave Uram (@MrUram) August 18, 2023
Nolan Smith’s tackle against Cleveland came on a reverse play against a speedy wide receiver. Smith showed a lot of potential and should be exciting to watch, along with a bunch of other Georgia Bulldogs on the Eagles, in his rookie season.
.@Eagles @SmithNoland2 flashed last night. The talent is real. Turning the corner like a “fine European Sports Car” can make a man a lot of money in this BIZ. Hope the shoulder is OK. #FlyEaglesFly #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/jlEzRw2yuC
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) August 18, 2023