PHILADELPHIA — Eagles linebacker/edge rusher Nolan Smith, a first-round pick in 2023, played in 17 games as a rookie, but much of his time was on special teams or in a limited rotation on defense. And he heard the grumblings from fans.

Last year was different. He began to break out. He played in 16 games on defense and ended up starting in 10. He finished with 42 total tackles, 6½ sacks, 11 QB hits, a forced fumble and a pair of pass deflections.

Now, he’s looking to get to the next level in defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s system.

“The next step in my game is, personally, just to be that pass rusher,” Smith said during OTAs this week. “Be that pass rusher, keep rushing, but also be the ultimate player.

“I don’t think Coach Vic knows, but, man, he coached some of my favorite guys in

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