The NFL is a game predicated on offense and great quarterback play but the one key to every successful team is the talent in the trenches.
The great NFL teams secure a franchise quarterback and then they embark on the process of building the organization from the inside out, fortifying both sides of the line. The Eagles perennially have one of the NFL’s top offensive line units and they have two of the NFL’s top defensive linemen on the roster as well.
NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks recently broke down the top five teams in the league based on their talent in the trenches on both sides of the ball.
Not surprisingly, the Eagles landed at No. 2 on the list.
The Eagles could soar to the top of the NFC behind a talented defensive line that features a diverse collection of playmakers at the point of attack. Fletcher Cox is the marquee name, but his blue-collar teammates (Javon Hargrave, Brandon Graham, and Derek Barnett) also have the capacity to take over games utilizing a committee approach. When the Eagles get that quartet going in the coming season, particularly on obvious passing downs, opposing quarterbacks are going to take a beating in the pocket. Offensively, the Eagles must cope with the loss of Jason Peters, but it is hard to complain with three four-star blockers on the front line. Lane Johnson, Brandon Brooks, and Jason Kelce are not only rock-solid technicians, but they are physical blockers with nasty dispositions. If Andre Dillard can quickly settle in as a first-time starter, the Eagles’ front will pummel opponents with its collective size, strength and athleticism.
The return of a healthy Malik Jackson will only make the group that much more lethal. If Genard Avery, Josh Sweat, and one of the young defensive tackles can take the next step, this group will quickly rise to No. 1 on the list.
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