Jonathan Greenard’s slow start is a concern for Eagles

The Eaglesacquired Jonathan Greenard to provide a dependable edge presence. Eight weeks into the season, that production has not materialized. Greenard has appeared in five games and recorded no sacks, two tackles, and one quarterback hit. He produced no pressure or quarterback hit during Philadelphia’s 27-10 loss to Washington, according to available charting.Injuries have disrupted Greenard’s season and should remain part of the evaluation. He has dealt with an ankle issue and missed three games, limiting his opportunity to develop continuity within Vic Fangio’s defense. The Eagles nevertheless need significantly more from a player acquired for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 third-round selection.Greenard entered Philadelphia with an established record as a productive pass rusher. He recorded 12½ sacks for Houston in 2023 and 12 during his first season in Minnesota. His production fell to three sacks in an injury-shortened 2025 season, but the Eagles bet on a return to his earlier form. That has not happened. Philadelphia’s defense has too often depended on simulated pressure or isolated individual wins rather than consistent disruption from its edge defenders. Greenard’s absence from the box score has made that problem more pronounced.The remaining nine games must provide clarity. Greenard isn't the only defender responsible for Philadelphia’s inconsistent pressure, but he was acquired to be part of the solution.The Giants matchup offers another opportunity. Philadelphia needs Greenard healthy, disruptive, and able to force quarterbacks off their preferred spot. Without that change, the trade will become increasingly difficult to defend.This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Jonathan Greenard’s slow start is a concern for Eagles