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The Eagles’ practice squad rookie who played 48 unexpected snaps in NFL debut

Keyshawn James-Newby likes to think he’s prepared for whatever challenge he faces. Even playing 48 unexpected snaps in his first NFL game.“Man, you’ve got to prepare yourself for anything,” the Eagles’ rookie edge rusher said after practice Thursday. “Sunday could…

Published: Friday, 23 October 2026 at 7:00 AM
The Eagles’ practice squad rookie who played 48 unexpected snaps in NFL debut
Key Things to Know
  • Rookie edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby played 48 snaps in his NFL debut after being elevated from the practice squad.
  • Injuries to Nolan Smith, Jonathan Greenard, Jalyx Hunt, and A.J. Epenesa drastically increased James-Newby's expected workload.
  • The 48 snaps represent the most by an Eagles defensive player off the bench in his debut since 2012.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Philadelphia Eagles rookie edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby played 48 defensive snaps in his NFL debut following multiple injuries along the defensive front. Elevated from the practice squad for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers, the seventh-round pick was initially scheduled for limited rotational duty before in-game injuries thrust him into an extended role.

Injuries to Nolan Smith and Jonathan Greenard, alongside pre-game absences of Jalyx Hunt and A.J. Epenesa, left James-Newby and Arnold Ebiketie as the team's primary edge rushers. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio praised James-Newby, who recorded two tackles and two quarterback hurries during the Eagles' 25-14 defeat.

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