Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles have significantly revamped their defense since their appearance in Super Bowl LVII, where they were recognized as one of the top defensive units in the NFL. The team was first in pass defense, led the league in quarterback sacks, and ranked highly in takeaways and points allowed per game. The 2022 lineup included notable players such as Brandon Graham, Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, Josh Sweat, Haason Reddick, T.J. Edwards, Kyzir White, Darius Slay, James Bradberry, Avonte Maddox, C.J. Gardner-Johnson (CJGJ), and Marcus Epps.

In the two seasons following that Super Bowl appearance, the Eagles have undergone significant changes on defense. Brandon Graham remains part of the rotation up front with Josh Sweat still starting. Darius Slay and CJGJ are also starters; however, James Bradberry is currently on Injured Reserve due to a preseason injury.

The Eagles now feature eight new starters on defense. Despite these changes, they have managed to maintain strong performance metrics: third in points allowed at 16.1 per game, second in total yards allowed at 274.1 per game, third in pass defense allowing 173.4 yards per outing, fifth against the run allowing 100.7 yards per game, and third in red zone defensive touchdown percentage at 42.31 percent.

Executive Vice President/General Manager Howie Roseman has played a key role in this transition by utilizing both the NFL Draft and free agency to bolster the team's defensive roster with young talent. First-round draft picks Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, and Nolan Smith have made significant contributions along with veteran players like Graham and Sweat.

At linebacker, N'Kobe Dean has emerged as a key player alongside Zack Baun who was acquired through free agency. Both players have been instrumental in maintaining defensive excellence this season.

In the secondary, Slay continues to be a high-level starter while CJGJ's return from Detroit has added depth to their playmaking capabilities. Young talents such as Reed Blankenship and rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean have also contributed significantly to the team's success.

Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio commented on Mitchell's progress: "We knew he was a good player and he has worked hard to learn and grow in the defense."

As they prepare for an upcoming challenge against Washington—a team tied for third place averaging 29 points per game—Dean expressed confidence but acknowledged room for growth: "We've improved as a defense but I know we feel we have a lot more to grow."

The Eagles' retooled defense stands among the best through nine games this season with potential for further improvement.