Understanding the Eagles' Defensive Dynamics: Bryce Huff and Nolan Smith's Early Season Struggles
As the Philadelphia Eagles step into the new season, the spotlight is firmly on their defensive unit. Under the guidance of seasoned defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, there's a mix of optimism and hard truth facing the team. This season has seen Bryce Huff being cemented as a starter, alongside rising talents like Nolan Smith and rookie Jalyx Hunt. Despite the promising roster, early struggles are evident.
Bryce Huff's performance has been a point of discussion. Huff, who inked a three-year, $51 million contract in the offseason, has yet to make a significant impact on the stat sheet. Over the first two games, he has played 59 snaps but managed only two pressures, reflecting a modest pressure rate of 6.7%. Fangio, however, remains steadfast in his support.
"He's still going to be the starter," Fangio assured. "But we're mixing those guys in, as I know you know, and we'll continue to do that."
Huff’s current form might not reflect his potential, but Fangio is confident in his development. "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 explained.
Contrast this with Nolan Smith, who has shown a higher pressure rate of 13.6% from his three pressures but, like Huff, has not recorded a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio sees progress in Smith’s game since his rookie year.
"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," Fangio noted, highlighting Smith’s growth despite the early lack of tangible rewards.
The Eagles' defensive woes extend beyond individual performances. The team ranks 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed, with an alarming 6.4 yards. They also stand 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed, letting 11 such runs slip through in the opening games. Fangio acknowledges these issues, attributing them to the overall defensive framework needing improvement.
"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 asserted.
Despite these struggles, there's a sense of resilience and potential within the team. Jalyx Hunt, the rookie third-round pick, has faith in the unit’s ability to grow and adapt.
"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, embodying a hopeful outlook.
Hunt is also committed to his personal development, continuously working to make the most of his 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," he expressed.
In the meantime, Hunt is leveraging the experience around him. "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," Hunt shared, highlighting the collaborative learning environment within the team.
Fangio's strategy hinges on a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, focusing on fundamentals and consistency. As the season progresses, the Eagles' defense, under his stewardship, aims to pivot from potential to performance, addressing their shortcomings and building a cohesive, formidable unit.