As the Philadelphia Eagles embark on their new season, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has firmly established Bryce Huff as a cornerstone of the team's defense. This offseason, Huff inked a lucrative three-year, $51 million contract, a testament to the team's faith in his abilities. However, the early season stats suggest that Huff's performance still requires refinement to meet the high expectations set for him.
Huff's Early Season Struggles
Despite being a starter, Huff has recorded just two pressures in 59 snaps across the first two games, translating to a pressure rate of 6.7%. While pressures are critical, they haven't yet materialized into sacks or quarterback hits for Huff, indicating room for improvement. Fangio remains committed to Huff's development, emphasizing the importance of building a complete game beyond just rushing the passer. "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 commented. "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."
Nolan Smith's Promising Start
Nolan Smith, another key defensive player, has shown flashes of potential despite similar statistics. Smith has managed three pressures with a pressure rate of 13.6% but, like Huff, is yet to record a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio acknowledges Smith's progress: "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." The coaching staff's focus remains on overall defensive performance, with a particular emphasis on improving the run defense, which has been a weakness for the team. The Eagles currently rank 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed (11).
Rookie Jalyx Hunt’s Optimism
Amidst the challenges, rookie Jalyx Hunt offers a refreshing outlook, believing in the team's potential despite the 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," said Hunt. The rookie third-round pick has also shown a commendable work ethic, taking advantage of every opportunity to learn and grow under the tutelage of veterans like Brandon Graham and Bryce Huff. "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 added.
Fangio's Focus on Fundamentals
Fangio's defensive strategy hinges on a blend of experience and emerging talent, with a strong emphasis on fundamentals and consistent performance. He recognizes that improving the run defense is crucial to generating sacks and pressures. "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 admitted. His approach marks a commitment to building a resilient and adaptable defensive unit that can support the team through the rigors of the season.
Building Towards Improvement
As the Eagles' defense continues to evolve, the mixture of seasoned players and energetic rookies like Huff, Smith, and Hunt will be paramount. Fangio’s experienced guidance aims to meld these talents into a cohesive force on the field. The early season hurdles underscore the need for patience and persistent effort, but the potential for a solid defensive lineup remains promising. The journey to excellence may be gradual, but with a focus on fundamentals and consistent performance, the Eagles' defense is poised to rise to the occasion. Fangio’s steadfast belief in his players and their capability to improve highlights a path forward filled with promise and determination.