In the latest developments surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles' defense, Vic Fangio, the team's seasoned coordinator, has made significant strides to solidify the unit's foundations. Among the key decisions, Bryce Huff has been confirmed as a starter, reflecting Fangio’s vote of confidence in the young defensive end.
Huff, who inked a lucrative three-year, $51 million deal during the offseason, has shown flashes of potential in the early stages of the season. Despite managing only two pressures across 59 snaps in the first two games—translating to a pressure rate of 6.7%—Huff has yet to register a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio remains optimistic about Huff’s progression, focusing on the long-term benefits of his development.
"He's still going to be the starter," Fangio emphasized. "But we're mixing those guys in, as I know you know, and we'll continue to do that." Fangio’s comments reflect a strategic approach, leveraging both veterans and younger talents to enhance the defense’s overall performance.
On the other side, Nolan Smith has emerged as a strong contender, achieving three pressures with a pressure rate of 13.6% across the same two-game span. Like Huff, Smith has not yet recorded a sack or quarterback hit, but his improved edge play has not gone unnoticed. "I think Nolan has come a ways since his rookie year," Fangio remarked. "I think he's playing better on the edge than he was last year, all around."
Despite these individual performances, the Eagles' defense is grappling with some broader challenges. The team ranks 31st in the NFL for yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th for 10+ yard rushes permitted (11). Fangio is acutely aware that addressing the run defense is crucial for the team's success. "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 candidly.
Rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt also offers a beacon of hope for the defense. Although the unit has experienced early-season struggles, Hunt remains confident in 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 reflected.
Hunt’s comments capture a blend of optimism and realism. He recognizes the importance of patience and preparation in his development journey. "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 noted. His commitment to improvement is evident as he frequently seeks additional guidance from coaches and peers. "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 belief in a meticulous focus on fundamentals and consistent performance forms the backbone of his defensive strategy. He envisions a defense that melds veteran experience with burgeoning potential, creating a robust unit capable of facing any offensive threat. As the season progresses, the onus will be on the Eagles' defense to solidify their run defense and, in turn, unlock greater opportunities for impactful plays.
The road ahead may be challenging, but the mix of established players like Huff and promising talents like Hunt and Smith provides a foundation upon which the Eagles can build. Ultimately, Fangio's patient yet proactive approach aims to harness the collective talent and turn promise into performance.