As the Philadelphia Eagles kick off their season, Vic Fangio has firmly established Bryce Huff as a key starter on the defensive unit, despite the early season struggles that have surfaced through their initial outings. Huff, who inked a lucrative three-year, $51 million contract this offseason, has had a slow start, recording just two pressures in 59 snaps over the first two games. However, Fangio remains steadfast in his commitment to Huff, stating, "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."
Defensive Struggles in Focus
Huff's pressure rate sits at 6.7%, and while the defensive end hasn’t recorded a sack or quarterback hit, Fangio emphasizes the broader challenges the defense is facing. "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 admits. These words highlight the team's ongoing need to shore up their run defense, which currently ranks 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed (11).
Even as the defensive line grapples with these issues, Nolan Smith has shown promise. The young linebacker has registered three pressures and boasts a pressure rate of 13.6% after two games, albeit also without a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio sheds some light on Smith’s progress, noting, "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."
A Mix of Veterans and Rookies
The Eagles' defense is a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Jalyx Hunt, a rookie third-round pick, has provided a fresh perspective on the team's current struggles. Expressing his confidence in the squad’s eventual cohesion, Hunt remarks, "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." His optimism is a glimpse into the mindset of a young player eager to contribute and grow alongside his teammates.
Hunt is also conscious of taking his development at the right pace. "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," he says, reflecting a mature approach to his progression within the team's system. His commitment to improvement is evident as he shares, "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."
Fangio’s Vision and Leadership
Under Fangio's leadership, the focus remains on mastering fundamentals and achieving consistent performance. With the eye of a seasoned defensive strategist, Fangio believes in the potential of blending the Eagles' experienced players with their emerging talents. This philosophical approach aims to forge a cohesive and resilient defensive unit, capable of responding to the challenges faced early in the season.
As the Eagles continue to navigate the early stages of their campaign, Fangio’s blend of experience and methodical teaching aims to steer the team towards improved performance. With Huff solidifying his starting role, Smith showing promise on the edge, and Hunt embodying the rookie spirit, the pieces are in place for a defensive resurgence. It is now a question of when, not if, these elements will coalesce to elevate the Eagles' defensive prowess.