Nolan Smith’s emphatic response to potentially playing in Week 10
The Philadelphia Eagles won back-to-back games before entering their Week 9 bye. Philadelphia rebounded from a two-game skid that had fans and analysts panicking about the defending Super Bowl champs. While the Eagles struggled at times in the first half of the season, they should once again be a powerhouse after resting and reloading over the break.
GM Howie Roseman swung several high-profile deals aimed at improving the Eagles’ disappointing defense. But the team will also benefit from Nolan Smith’s return from injury. Smith landed on IR following Week 3’s win over the Los Angeles Rams.
The former first-round pick is ready to get back on the field in the Eagles’ Monday Night Football matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Asked if he expects to play, Smith was emphatic. “Oh yeah. Hell yeah,” the third-year linebacker said, per The Athletic’s Zach Berman.
Nolan Smith set to rejoin Eagles’ defense in Week 10
Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Smith missed the last five games with a triceps injury. It was a concerning development as the 24-year-old defender tore his triceps in the Super Bowl and needed surgery. The Eagles were cautious with his rehab, hoping to avoid further damage.
Fortunately, Smith’s recovery went well and Philadelphia opened his 21-day return window this week. He practiced in full ahead of Monday night’s matchup.
Jordan Love and company could have their hands full with a refreshed and reinforced Eagles defense. In addition to Smith, Philadelphia’s pass rush will feature newly acquired linebacker Jaelan Phillips, who was added in a trade deadline deal with the Miami Dolphins.
The Eagles also bolstered their secondary by trading for Jaire Alexander and Michael Carter II. And the recently unretired Brandon Graham should suit up for Monday Night Football.
Philadelphia’s offense also benefited from the bye, as the week off provided an opportunity for the team to rest. This was particularly important with AJ Brown and Saquon Barkley nursing injuries. Both Brown and Barkley practiced in full ahead of Week 10’s clash with Green Bay.
Alvin Kamara Fires Back at Engagement Backlash: ‘I Don’t See Color’ – Running Back Responds to Critics With Powerful Message of Love and Equality
New Orleans — In the wake of his high-profile engagement to longtime girlfriend, model and social media personality Maya Johnson, Saints running back Alvin Kamara has found himself at the center of an unexpected controversy. Fans, pundits, and even celebrity commentators took to social media to debate Kamara’s choice, sparking heated discussions about race, privilege, and public perception.
Speaking candidly during a rare press conference at the Saints’ training facility, Kamara addressed the backlash head-on.
“I’ve seen the posts. I’ve read the comments. But here’s the truth: I don’t see color,” Kamara said, his voice calm but resolute. “Maya has been by my side through everything — the good, the bad, and the chaotic moments. My love for her isn’t about race, it’s about the bond we share, the trust, and the life we’re building together.”
The running back’s engagement, which was announced earlier this month with a stunning ring and a heartfelt social media post, quickly went viral. Fans celebrated, but some critics questioned the relationship dynamics, sparking a wave of debates across platforms. The discussion soon extended beyond sports and celebrity circles, touching on broader cultural conversations about relationships, public image, and personal freedom.
Kamara, who has consistently maintained a reputation as one of the NFL’s most grounded stars, made it clear that he won’t let social media drama overshadow his personal life.
“People will always have opinions. That’s fine,” Kamara continued. “But I know who I am, I know what I value, and I know the woman I’m marrying. Nothing else matters.”
Maya Johnson also spoke briefly during the press conference, emphasizing the couple’s shared commitment and support for one another. “Alvin and I have built something real, something lasting. Social media doesn’t define our love — we do,” she said.
Fans have since rallied around the couple, flooding Kamara’s posts with messages of support and admiration. Hashtags like #AlvinAndMaya, #TrueLoveInNewOrleans, and #NoHateJustLove quickly began trending nationwide.
As Kamara prepares for the upcoming NFL season, it’s clear that he won’t let personal attacks derail his focus. The running back’s statement has not only addressed the backlash but also cemented his stance as a leader who speaks with honesty, integrity, and heart — both on and off the field.
One thing is certain: Alvin Kamara’s love life just became as talked-about as his game-day performances, and he’s proving that some battles are fought with courage and conviction, not with controversy.
