The Philadelphia Eagles' defense is in a state of flux as they integrate new talent and seek stability under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. One of the most significant moves this offseason was securing Bryce Huff on a three-year, $51 million contract, and Fangio remains committed to his decision to keep Huff as a starter. Despite Huff's modest production over the first two games, Fangio is maintaining a longer-term vision for his defense.
Bryce Huff: Learning and Growing
Huff's early-season performance has been underwhelming in terms of traditional metrics, recording only two pressures in 59 snaps, which translates to a pressure rate of 6.7%. He has yet to notch a sack or quarterback hit, an area that Fangio acknowledges needs improvement. "He's still going to be the starter. But we're mixing those guys in, as I know you know, and we'll continue to do that," Fangio stated. His comments suggest that despite Huff's struggles, the coaching staff sees potential in his development.
Fangio elaborated on Huff's growth and areas for improvement. "He's still learning how to play the total game and not just rush situations. But he's working hard at it, and we're going to stick with him," he said. The emphasis on learning the complete game indicates that Fangio sees more to Huff's role than just pressure statistics, aiming for a multifaceted contribution.
Nolan Smith: A Rising Edge
Nolan Smith, another key piece of the Eagles' defensive puzzle, has shown more promise statistically, with three pressures and a pressure rate of 13.6% over the first two games. Like Huff, however, Smith has not recorded a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio remains encouraged by Smith's progress since his rookie season. "I think Nolan has come a ways since his rookie year. I think he's playing better on the edge than he was last year, all around," Fangio observed.
The development of both Huff and Smith highlights Fangio's approach to building a robust defensive unit. "I think when you talk production, correct me if I'm wrong, but you're talking sacks and pressures and stuff, and until we do a better job of playing the run, those aren't coming. That's for sure. We all have to do a better job, starting with me, of playing the run better," Fangio candidly admitted. This focus on run defense underscores a critical area that needs addressing.
Team Struggles and Rebuilding
The Eagles' defense faces notable challenges, ranking 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed (11). These statistics point to significant issues in run defense, which Fangio and his staff are committed to improving through fundamental techniques and consistent performance.
Among the new faces in the defensive lineup is rookie Jalyx Hunt, a third-round pick who remains optimistic despite the team's early struggles. "It's everybody's second game of the season. We're learning to gel. I'm not worried about it at all. You see spurts of it in moments, so once we get to the point where that's the whole game, I think we're going to be fine," Hunt commented. His belief in the team's potential reflects a broader sentiment within the locker room.
Balancing Experience and Potential
Fangio's strategy blends the experience of veterans with the potential of younger players. The defensive coordinator stresses fundamentals and steady performance to achieve the desired results. "One thing I would hate to do is to wish my time to come faster then I'm not where I need to be. But my time will come and when I have the opportunity, I feel like I'm going to rise to the occasion," Hunt stated, showing a mature understanding of his developmental trajectory.
Hunt's commitment to improvement is evident in his approach. "I'm working hard every day, getting extra time in with the coaches and what not, BG [Brandon Graham], Bryce [Huff], anybody I have access to," he shared. This attitude of relentless effort and learning from seasoned pros is what Fangio likely hopes will translate into improved performance on the field.
As the season progresses, the Eagles' defense will aim to address its deficiencies, particularly in run defense, and harness the potential of its young talents. Fangio's balanced approach, combining the vigor of youth with the wisdom of experience, will be crucial as Philadelphia looks to solidify its defensive unit.