The Eagles returned from the bye week to start preparation for a Super Bowl rematch against the Chiefs on Wednesday, and the team will look to make a statement in front of a national television audience.
Philadelphia has been up and down defensively, and statistically are still among the best agaainst the rush, and middle of the pack against the past despite a mash unit at cornerback.
With kickoff fast approaching, we’re looking at one thing to watch from each of the Eagles’ defensive position groups.
DL
According to Next Gen Stats, the Eagles have produced the 3rd-most QB pressures (154) in the NFL, behind Baltimore (167) and San Francisco (155). They are also tied for the 3rd-most QB hits (65), trailing only the Ravens (69) and 49ers (68). Overall, Philadelphia has totaled the 4th most sacks (30, tied) in the league, behind Baltimore (39), Kansas City (31), and L.A. Chargers (31), while also ranking 3rd with 12 forced fumbles.
With the Eagles’ secondary banged up and struggling against elite competition, we’ll be watching to see if the Philadelphia defensive front can help alleviate some of the struggles in the secondary.
LB
Nakobe Dean is out for another four weeks, but Zach Cunningham and Nicholas Morrow have been solid against the pass in relief.
We’ll be watching to see if Cunningham can help contain Isaiah Pacheco in the running game and Travis Kelce in the passing game.
CB
Bradley Roby is back and during the 55+ plays he logged in two games, the Eagles were stout against the pass, and on the same page coverage-wise.
We’ll be watching to see if Roby’s return can help stabilize the secondary.
Safety
Reed Blankenship is the 7th highest graded safety in the NFL per PFF, and the third highest graded safety when in coverage, but he’s left plays on the table.
We’ll be watching to see how Blankenship responds to matchups with Travis Kelce, and other Chiefs pass catchers.
