Vic Fangio has taken a decisive step to solidify Bryce Huff as the starting defensive player for the Philadelphia Eagles. Amid the early season challenges, Huff's role in the team remains undisputed.
This offseason, Bryce Huff penned a substantial three-year, $51 million contract, indicating the value the Eagles place on his potential. However, the start of the season highlighted some areas for improvement. Despite two pressures in 59 snaps over the first two games, his pressure rate stands at 6.7%, with neither a sack nor a quarterback hit recorded. The numbers suggest room for growth, something Fangio acknowledges.
"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 remains optimistic about Huff's development, emphasizing hard work and a comprehensive approach to the game.
Fellow defensive player Nolan Smith, contrastingly, has recorded three pressures and boasts a pressure rate of 13.6% early in the season. Like Huff, Smith is also yet to record a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio appreciates the progress Nolan has made since his rookie year, observing improvement in his play on the edge.
The opening games of the season have revealed weaknesses in the Eagles' defense, notably in their run defense. The team ranks 31st in the NFL for yards per carry allowed, yielding an average of 6.4 yards. Additionally, they're placed 29th for allowing 11 rushes of 10 or more yards. This stat line underscores Fangio’s point about the necessity for comprehensive improvement, starting from the fundamentals.
"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.
Despite the challenges, rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt remains firm in his belief in the team's potential. His comments reflect a resolve and patience seldom seen in rookies. "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 said, articulating his confidence.
The support from veterans like Huff and Brandon Graham plays a significant role in the development of younger players like Hunt. The rookie's diligent approach, exemplified by his extra training sessions and learning from seasoned players, highlights a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
"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 stated, underscoring his readiness to step up when needed.
Fangio's leadership is pivotal as he integrates both veterans and rookies, aiming for a more consistent defensive unit. His focus on blending experience with potential is designed to holistically uplift the team's performance. "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 said about Huff, emphasizing a commitment to player development.
The early indicators point to a season of adjustments and recalibrations for the Eagles' defense. Fangio’s strategic patience and the team’s focused effort on fundamentals suggest that while immediate results may vary, the long-term outlook holds promise. The upcoming games will be critical for translating effort into execution, validating Fangio's integrated approach of experience and potential.