Eagles expect Jonathan Greenard to return sooner rather than later

Jonathan Greenard missed valuable practice time while learning the Philadelphia Eagles' defense, but the organization expects its veteran edge rusher to return sooner rather than later. The Athletic's Brooks Kubena asked general manager Howie Roseman how quickly Greenard could get up to speed after defensive coordinator Vic Fangio acknowledged that his role would include some new coverage responsibilities.

"Us not having him on PUP and missing time here shows that we anticipate him playing sooner rather than later," Roseman said. "What that timetable is, again, we'll keep close to the vest."

Placing Greenard on the physically unable to perform list would have required him to miss at least the opening four games. Keeping him on the active roster leaves open the possibility of an earlier return. Philadelphia acquired Greenard during the draft, sending third-round selections in 2026 and 2027 to Minnesota for the veteran and a seventh-round pick. He is expected to become a central piece of a rotation that includes Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, A.J. Epenesa and Arnold Ebiketie.

"The guy's a tremendous football player," Roseman said. "He's got a tremendous ability to affect the quarterback."

Greenard must learn some responsibilities that differ from those in his previous assignments, but his primary job will remain pressuring quarterbacks and strengthening a defensive front that the Eagles consistently prioritize.

Roseman also praised Greenard's conditioning, leadership and approach during his rehabilitation.

"We expect him to have a high impact on this team this season," Roseman said. "For all accounts of what he's done and how he works and how he leads, he's as advertised."