What An In-Depth Look At Surprising New Eagles Rookie Jalyx Hunt.

There are many names that Eagles fans and media were pleased to see in training camp this year, but Jalyx Hunt was not one of them. However, he’s been the Eagles rookie, taking over the spotlight over other rookies like Quinyon Michell and Cooper DeJean.

In training camp, Hunt has received reps with the second-team defense on the other side of Nolan Smith. While it’s still early, he’s made plenty of buzz that will make fans excited to see him in action. Here’s an in-depth outlook on the Eagles rookie and what to expect from Hunt in 2024.

Jalyx Hunt was the fourth-round selection for the Eagles in this previous draft. Hunt started as a safety at Cornell University but went to Houston Christian University in 2022. After transferring, he made the adjustment to becoming an edge rusher and was a formidable force at the FCS level in 2023.

Being a former safety and track athlete, Hunt is an exceptionally easy and explosive athlete who possesses very good bend and a closing burst to get to the quarterback. At the combine, Hunt measured in at 6’4” and 252 pounds, ran a 4.64 forty-yard dash, and had a 37.5” inch vertical leap.

He’s the type of athlete NFL management covet on the edge but was considered as a developmental prospect. Hunt’s major shortcoming and question marks focused on his strength and ability to stand up in the run game. He has a slighter physique than many other edge rushers and experienced instances of getting pushed around in college.

Additionally, like other young pass-rushers, analysts felt he needs some time to perfect his technique and add additional pass-rush maneuvers. His shortcomings and the fact he played against lower competition contributed to him becoming a day-three draft pick. Albeit a fascinating one, nonetheless.

It’s still too early to determine what role Jalyx Hunt may play in this defense. However, if he sustains this level of play in the preseason, there’s a potential we could see him in week one.

The Eagles likes to keep the defensive line fresh and cycle men in and out. While the edge rusher room is currently full with Brandon Graham, Josh Sweat, Bryce Huff, and Nolan Smith, Hunt can still carve out himself a restricted role early. Like Nolan Smith in 2023, that role may just be a designated pass-rusher on third downs.

However, that role might be highly valuable against teams like the Detroit Lions, San Fransisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys. If he gains some playtime, he may keep all the edge rushers fresh throughout the season. Plus, no team will ever say no to more good pass-rushers.

If the noise and hype don’t come to fruition this year, he’s still shown wonderful signals for his future. Learning from Brandon Graham will also be a tremendous help to him in his profession.

With Graham entering his final season and Josh Sweat nearing the final year of his contract, Hunt’s improvement will be appreciated in the following years. Whether we see him this year or not, his performances have been tremendously encouraging.

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