Vic Fangio Solidifies Bryce Huff's Starting Role Amid Early Season Struggles
Despite a rocky start to the season, Vic Fangio remains confident in Bryce Huff's abilities, reaffirming his starting position on the Philadelphia Eagles defense. Huff, who signed a lucrative three-year, $51 million contract this offseason, is expected to be a cornerstone of the Eagles' defensive line.
"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, acknowledging the current rotation approach.
Over the first two games, Huff has managed to produce only two pressures in 59 snaps, resulting in a modest pressure rate of 6.7%. While Huff has yet to record a sack or quarterback hit, Fangio remains steadfast in his belief in Huff's potential. "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," Fangio added.
Eagles' Defensive Line Under the Microscope
The Eagles, currently ranking near the bottom in several defensive metrics, find themselves scrutinized for their early-season performance. They stand 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed (11). Such statistics have invited questions about the efficacy of their defensive strategies.
One player showing promise is Nolan Smith, who has registered three pressures and a pressure rate of 13.6% in the first two games. However, like Huff, Smith has yet to tally a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio sees progress in Smith, 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."
Focus on Fundamentals
Fangio, renowned for his defensive acumen, is zeroing in on the basics to uplift the unit. "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," he emphasized.
The Eagles' defense, a blend of seasoned veterans and promising rookies, is expected to gel better as the season progresses. Rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt reflects this optimism despite the team's 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," Hunt shared.
Hunt's developmental journey and determination to rise to the occasion underscore the team's collective effort. "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 remarked. He further added, "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."
Combining Experience with Potential
Fangio believes in a strategy that melds the experience of veterans with the raw potential of newcomers. This philosophy, he hopes, will create a robust and cohesive unit capable of overcoming current challenges. "He's still learning," Fangio said of Huff, "but the hard work being put in will eventually pay off."
The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and Fangio's approach of fostering consistency and focusing on fundamentals may yet see the Eagles' defense transform into a formidable force. With a mix of tenacity and strategic adjustments, the Eagles aim to turn their early season woes into a narrative of redemption and resilience.
As the team continues to adapt and evolve, all eyes will be on how Fangio's unit responds in the coming weeks. Whether it’s the high-priced talent like Huff or the promising potential of youngsters like Hunt, the road to defensive dominance is paved with steadfast effort and strategic precision.