With all the changes that the Eagles have experienced this summer, most people are focusing on the offensive side of the ball, and the three quarterbacks that are trying to lead it. One of the moves that flew under the radar for the Eagles this offseason was the signing of Jim Schwartz. Schwartz replaced Billy Davis, as the new defensive coordinator, and is more than qualified for the position.
Schwartz began coaching in the NFL in 1993 with the Cleveland Browns. Eight years later Schwartz became the defensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, and held that job until 2009. Next, Schwartz accepted the head coaching job for the Detroit Lions, and stayed on for five seasons. After being the defensive coordinator last season for the Bills, Schwartz joined the Eagles.
It is now Schwartz’s job to improve a defense that finished 30th in yards allowed, with 401.6 per game, 28th in passing yards allowed, with 267.1 per game, and dead last in rushing yards allowed, with 134.6 per game. In short, the Eagles defense was not very good at defending in any facet last season. This does not mean that Schwartz has nothing to work with for the upcoming season, far from it actually.
The Eagles defense has numerous skilled players. Leading the way on the defensive line: Fletcher Cox. Cox signed a six-year, $103 million contract extension this offseason. He is a defensive force, and can play both defensive end, and tackle. Cox is that rare talent that can blow up the run, rush the passer, and turn the tide of a game by himself, much like JJ Watt does with the Texans.
Teaming up with Cox is former LSU Tiger Bennie Logan, who has the ability to effectively shut down any team’s running game. Connor Barwin, and Brandon Graham are skilled veterans that can be depended on to perform well. Last but not least is defensive end Vinny Curry, who is fresh of a new contract extension, at a team friendly five-year, $47.25 million. Curry is ready to prove himself as a starter, after being used primarily as a third down pass-rushing specialist under Chip Kelly.
Linebackers Jordan Hicks, and Mychal Kendricks are capable of being great. 2016 pro bowler Malcolm Jenkins, and newly signed Rodney McLeod, should create a dynamic safety duo for the first time since the Dawkins era.
Joining Schwartz are some of his former players from his time with the Buffalo Bills, including cornerbacks Leodis McKelvin, and Ron Brooks, and linebacker Nigel Bradham. McKelvin, and Brooks will attempt to shore up a position that has been a revolving door of disappointment in recent years, that have included names such as Asomugha, and Maxwell. These players have a ton of potential and, if utilized correctly, the entire defense could become a major plus for the Eagles going forward. Schwartz will be trying to prove that he is man who can get the most of out these players.
One factor that will be in Schwartz’s favor is the obvious increase in time of possession for Sam Bradford, and the Eagles’ offense. A major contributor to the poor performance of the Eagles’ defense in the 2015 season was the amount of time they were on the field. As Chip Kelly’s quick strike offense ended in three and outs more often than not last year the defense found themselves on the field for what seemed like all game. With Doug Pederson in charge, the Eagles will go back to a more traditional style offense. This implies huddling, changing the play at the line, and giving the defense the recuperation time they need in order to perform all game.
Schwartz has been quite clear in his interviews, and press conferences, that his defense will be attacking, and aggressive, which is what Eagles’ fans like to hear. Schwartz has the personnel, experience, and autonomy that will allow him to install the defense he wishes. This group has the potential to be great in the 2016 season, and with Schwartz at the helm, they have a great chance to prove how dominant they can be.
Follow us on twitter @PlayerInsiders @JesseKinney
