Vic Fangio's Commitment to Bryce Huff Amid Defensive Struggles
As the Philadelphia Eagles navigate the early stages of the season, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has made a definitive statement: Bryce Huff remains a starter on the defense. Despite a three-year, $51 million contract inked in the offseason, Huff's initial performance has drawn scrutiny, but Fangio's faith remains unshaken.
Through the first two games, Huff has registered two pressures in 59 snaps, with a pressure rate of 6.7%. Yet, he has not recorded a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio is well aware that Huff has room for growth, stating, "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."
The numbers tell a story of a defense still trying to find its rhythm. The Eagles rank 31st in the NFL in yards per carry allowed, with an alarming 6.4 yards per attempt, and have given up 11 rushes of 10+ yards, placing them 29th in that category. Fangio understands the task ahead, noting, "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."
Huff’s teammate, Nolan Smith, also illustrates the team's mixed early results. In his first two games, Smith accumulated three pressures with a 13.6% pressure rate. Like Huff, he, too, has yet to notch a sack or quarterback hit. Fangio acknowledges Smith's progress since entering the league, saying, "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."
One of the bright spots for the Eagles is rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt. Despite the challenges faced by the defense, Hunt believes in the unit's potential. "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," he asserted confidently.
Hunt's optimism is coupled with a strong work ethic. "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 reflected, showcasing his mature perspective on growth and opportunity. He mentioned the veterans’ supportive role, adding, "I'm working hard every day, getting extra time in with the coaches and whatnot, BG [Brandon Graham], Bryce [Huff], anybody I have access to."
Fangio's approach to bolstering the Eagles' defensive unit relies on a mixture of seasoned veterans and hungry rookies. He remains focused on improving fundamentals and fostering consistency in performance. Echoing this blend of experience and potential, he maintains his commitment to his players, especially those like Huff who are still finding their stride in high-pressure situations.
"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 reiterated about Huff, emphasizing the long-term investment in his development.
As the season progresses, Fangio's strategy will undoubtedly come under continued observation. The early numbers reflect a defense in transition, but with a dedicated leader at the helm and a mix of emerging talent and seasoned professionals, the Eagles aim to rise from their current struggles. The foundation of Fangio's belief in experience, talent development, and rigorous fundamentals could be just the combination needed to achieve defensive success.