The 2026 NFL Draft is over, and now teams are making final decisions on the fifth-year options.
The Philadelphia Eagles have decided to exercise the option for pass rusher Nolan Smith, meaning he will earn $13.7 million in 2027.
The Eagles also announced that they picked up the fifth-year option for defensive end Jalen Carter, who was the ninth overall pick in 2023 and also played with Smith at Georgia. Carter’s fifth-year option is worth $27.1 million, according to Over The Cap.
We’ve exercised the 5th-year option for Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith through 2027. pic.twitter.com/OSsi1GuiBl
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) April 27, 2026
Smith was selected in the first round at No. 23 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, and he has played well early on for the Eagles.
Smith had just one sack in 17 games as a rookie, but he earned more playing time in 2024 and finished with 6.5 sacks and a pair of fumble recoveries.
Last season, Smith played just 12 games but had three sacks and showed he is an important part of the defense when he is healthy.
Carter has played in 44 games with 13.5 sacks and four forced fumbles in his NFL career. However, his name came up in trade rumors.
For now, both 2023 first-round picks are staying in Philadelphia in a huge boost for the defense.
