We stick with the NFC this week, and turn our eyes to the Philadelphia Eagles. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was lured back from his duties as a consultant to the NFL's officiating department last season, and he has helped the team step up on the defensive side of the ball. The team did lose an edge rusher in Connor Barwin as well as run-stopper Bennie Logan to free agency. The draft did land them a first-round pick in the form of defensive back Sidney Jones, but he suffered a pre-draft Achilles tendon tear and is not likely to contribute much if any this season. Patrick Robinson did sign as a free agent, and third round pick Rasul Davis will help shore up the cornerback position.
The front line is strong in Philly, and Brandon Graham stands out as a top defensive end despite not racking up a huge number of sacks, collecting just 5.5 in 2016. He had a career high 59 tackles last season, however, with 41 of those being solos. Vinny Curry will start the season at the opposite side of the line, but will most probably be pressed by first round rookie Derek Barnett, as the young DE grows accustomed to the speed and action of the NFL. The two defensive tackles, Fletcher Cox and free agent signee Timmy Jernigan, will work to disrupt the opposition's line and Jernigan is a good bet to collect a handful of sacks, assuming the ankle injury he suffered during OTAs does not linger. The team also signed another free agent by the name of Chris Long to back up Curry at the right DE slot, and the veteran will most likely see 300-400 snaps on defense. While Long is no longer the dominant defensive player he once was, he provides depth and leadership for the DL.
Unlike the DL, linebacker is a concern for the Eagles. Only SLB Nigel Bradham is coming off a big season, totaling 102 total tackles (69 solo), with a pair of sacks and five passes defensed (PD). Mychal Kendricks has been on the trade block, having fallen out of favor with the new defensive coaching staff in 2016, but is still with the team going into training camp due to the lack of depth at the linebacker position. Kendricks could be a useful LB if he moves to another team that will let him play, but his value in Philadelphia is a sinking mire for him presently. Much was expected of Jordan Hicks after his showing in 2015 over eight contests, but then again, 85 tackles (58 solo) with 11 PD and five INT is not exactly chopped liver. His third year in the system could see him rebound and become even more fantasy relevant. Based on last year's production, he is just a LB3/4. The depth is lacking at this position, as only Najee Goode is worth considering, but his career is built on special teams work and he will not be relevant unless one of the starting three is injured (or in the case of Hendricks, traded).
At present, the team is recovering from losing both their starting corners from 2016, and responded by signing Patrick Robinson to cover the right side, and will slip in second-year player Jalen Mills on the left side. Robinson is the guy to target here, although when Mills played in 2016, he was frequently targeted by opposing offensive coordinators and that should continue, making him a source of fantasy point production. The safeties are the strength of the defensive secondary, with both strong safety Rodney McLeod and free safety Malcolm Jenkins playing over 1000 snaps on defense during the 2016 season. McLeod put up 72 solo tackles as part of his 83 total tackles, also adding seven PDs and three INTs, while Jenkins contributed 72 total tackles (47 solo) and nine PDs, as well as scoring two TDs and picking off three passes. None of the depth defensive backs is worth considering in your drafts this coming August, although in dynasty leagues, keep your eye on rookie cornerback Sidney Jones, who could evolve into a player to target later in drafts. Jones is injured and not likely to arrive on the scene until October at the earliest.
This is going to be a D/ST that will not be considered as a top-10 draft option in 2017. That will play to your advantage, as you will be able to wait before selecting them in the final couple rounds of your draft. Plus, Brandon Graham and Nigel Bradham are IDPs you should keep in mind as you draft in your IDP leagues. Schwartz is a good if not great defensive coach, and that will show up on the field this season.
As ever, good luck and Godspeed in your fantasy efforts. Make sure to read all of our great articles to help you win your fantasy match ups every week and ultimately bask in championship glory. If you have any fantasy football questions, especially about IDP leagues, send your inquires to ia@fantasyalarm.com.