As the Philadelphia Eagles navigate the early weeks of the NFL season, defensive adjustments are under a keen spotlight. A significant factor in these adjustments is the integration of Bryce Huff as a starter, a decision solidified by the experienced hand of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
The offseason saw Huff securing a three-year, $51 million contract, positioning him as a key player for the Eagles' defense. Despite this vote of confidence, Huff's early season performance has been underwhelming by some metrics. In the first two games, he has managed only two pressures over 59 snaps, translating to a modest pressure rate of 6.7%. Notably, Huff has yet to record a sack or quarterback hit, statistics that are traditionally expected from a high-profile defensive player.
Fangio remains steadfast in his support for Huff, acknowledging both his effort and room for growth. "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 said. He adds that Huff is "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."
Comparatively, Nolan Smith has been more effective in applying pressure, achieving three pressures and a pressure rate of 13.6% over the same period. Like Huff, Smith has yet to notch a sack or quarterback hit, but Fangio notes the progress he's seen from the young defender. "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," said Fangio.
The Eagles’ struggles aren't limited to individual performances. The team ranks 31st in the league in yards per carry allowed, giving up an alarming average of 6.4 yards. Additionally, they are near the bottom in allowing 10+ yard rushes, with 11 such plays putting the defense under scrutiny. Fangio acknowledges these broader issues, attributing the lack of sacks and pressures to poor run defense. He stresses, "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."
Amidst these challenges, rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt offers a refreshing perspective on the team’s potential. Despite the early struggles, he remains optimistic. "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 remarks.
Hunt also speaks to the importance of readiness and seizing opportunities. "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." His commitment to improving is evident as he shares the extra efforts he's been putting in. "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 adds.
Vic Fangio's approach emphasizes a blend of experience and potential, aiming to instill fundamentals and consistent performance across the defense. This strategy leverages the guidance of veteran players while harnessing the raw talent of rookies like Hunt and the emerging capabilities of guys like Smith. It’s a balancing act, one that requires patience and persistent effort.
As the Eagles continue their season, the synergy between experienced veterans and eager rookies could very well define their defensive evolution. The expectations are high, and the road may be rocky, but Fangio's unwavering trust in his players and their collective commitment could be the key to turning early struggles into long-term success.