Fangio Bets on Bryce Huff Despite Early Season Struggles
The Philadelphia Eagles have faced a rocky start to their season, and much of the defensive spotlight has fallen on Bryce Huff. With a new three-year, $51 million contract inked this offseason, expectations were high for the promising defensive player. But through the first two games, Huff has recorded only two pressures in 59 snaps, translating to a pressure rate of just 6.7%. More concerning is the absence of sacks or quarterback hits on his stat sheet.
Despite these numbers, Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio remains confident in Huff's abilities and potential. "He's still going to be the starter," Fangio asserted. "But we're mixing those guys in, as I know you know, and we'll continue to do that."
Fangio's strategy involves allowing Huff the time necessary to evolve into a more comprehensive player. "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, emphasizing the staff's commitment to Huff's development.
While Huff is finding his footing, another name in the Eagles' pass-rush department, Nolan Smith, has managed to post three pressures, boasting a pressure rate of 13.6%. Like Huff, Smith has yet to record a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio, however, sees promise in Smith’s performance. "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.
The Eagles' struggles on defense aren't isolated incidents but indicative of broader issues. They currently rank 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (6.4) and 29th in 10+ yard rushes allowed (11). Fangio acknowledges that improvements are needed across the board, starting with stopping the run. "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.
Yet, there remains a sense of optimism within the team. Jalyx Hunt, a rookie third-round pick, has voiced his belief in the squad's potential despite these early setbacks. "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 remarked.
Hunt’s determination to seize his moment when the opportunity arises shines through in his words and actions. "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, highlighting his patient yet proactive approach. He spends extra time working with coaches and teammates, including seasoned veterans like Brandon Graham and Bryce Huff, to accelerate his learning curve. "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.
Vic Fangio's philosophy revolves around blending experience with burgeoning talent, focused on both immediate improvements and long-term potential. It's a meticulous balance that requires patience, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to fundamentals. Fangio’s goal is to foster a defensive unit that not only survives but thrives under pressure.
As the season progresses, Fangio’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the Eagles’ defense through its early struggles and into a more formidable force. With veterans offering stability and rookies bringing fresh energy, the Eagles have the pieces in place to turn things around. The next few weeks will be telling, as the team strives to transform spurts of brilliance into consistent performance on the field.