The Philadelphia Eagles' defense has had a rocky start to the season, and much of the attention has fallen on some of the key players and the newly signed talents. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio's recent decision to secure Bryce Huff's position as a starter has stirred discussion among fans and analysts alike. Huff, who inked a lucrative three-year, $51 million contract this offseason, has managed two pressures in the first 59 snaps of the season. Despite these efforts, his pressure rate stands at a modest 6.7%, and he has yet to record a sack or quarterback hit in the opening games.
Vic Fangio has expressed confidence in Huff, noting, "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." This statement reflects a blended approach in utilizing both veteran players and promising newcomers to solidify the Eagles' defense. Huff’s continual learning and development is evident, as Fangio adds, "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."
Meanwhile, rookie Nolan Smith has also shown potential, with three pressures and a more impressive pressure rate of 13.6%. Like Huff, Smith has yet to record a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio remains optimistic about Smith’s progress, stating, "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."
However, despite individual efforts, the Eagles' defense as a whole has struggled. The team ranks 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed (11). Fangio acknowledges these deficiencies, emphasizing the need for improvement across the board. "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."
Amid these challenges, rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt remains optimistic about the team's potential. "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," he shared, underscoring a belief in the group's ability to coalesce and improve as the season progresses.
Hunt sees his role as one of growth and readiness, working diligently to hone his skills. "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 remarked, revealing a mature perspective for such a young player. "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 strategy relies heavily on a blend of experience and untapped potential within the Eagles' defensive unit. Emphasizing fundamentals and consistent performance remains a core focus for Fangio as he seeks to elevate the defense's effectiveness. The presence of veterans like Graham, alongside budding talents such as Huff and Smith, highlights a calculated approach to achieving improved defensive synergy.
As the season progresses, the emphasis will undoubtedly be on addressing the glaring weaknesses in the run defense, while fostering the development of both seasoned players and rookies. Fangio's commitment to blending experience with potential is clear, pointing towards a future where the Eagles' defense could become a formidable force.