What fighting spirit: Nolan Smith Jr. played out the Super Bowl despite a serious muscle injury.

Throughout the game, the Philadelphia Eagles defense terrorized Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs offense in Super Bowl LIX. An important part of this defense was outside linebacker Nolan Smith Jr.

The impressive performance of the 24-year-old is demonstrated by a report from NFL insider Ian Rapoport: Smith tore his triceps muscle during the Super Bowl – but still played through the second half against the Chiefs.

Eagles pass-rusher Nolan Smith tore his triceps in the Super Bowl LIX win over the Chiefs — and played through it in the second half, per me and @MikeGarafolo

Smith, who played in the second half with one arm, had surgery on Wednesday and will be ready for the 2025 season. pic.twitter.com/Atmq0pcXkV

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 21, 2025

Despite the injury, Smith was able to record two quarterback hits in Super Bowl, while the Eagles’ pass rush took Patrick Mahomes down six times in the 40-22 win.

The 2023 first-round pick has since successfully undergone surgery and is expected to be fit again in time for the start of the new season.

In the regular season, Smith had recorded 6.5 sacks, eight tackles for loss and a forced fumble in 16 games.