The Philadelphia Eagles’ defense has experienced a resurgence during the halfway point of the season. According to Fox Sports, they are in the top 10 in just about every defensive category including the highest rated group for total defense. Now, they will be taking a hit in the front seven; Eagles defensive end Bryce Huff is heading for wrist surgery. How much of an impact has he had on the team’s success? How much does this impact their unit going forward?
The Latest On The Eagles Defensive End
Huff is reportedly scheduled for wrist surgery on Thursday, Nov. 20. The report from NBC Sports Philadelphia also goes on to mention that Huff has been playing for the last several weeks on the injury. The injury is not expected to be season-ending and the hope is that Huff can return later in the 2024 season.
Sports Illustrated reported that the injury occurred during a pregame warmup drill against the Jaguars. The article also says that Huff had been wearing a cast during games to play through it. Now that doesn’t seem to be the case and it’s inhibiting his play on the field.
It will be intriguing to see how this injury impacts the Eagles resurging defense. Huff was supposed to be one of the pieces leading that charge going into the year. He signed a three-year, 51-million-dollar, deal with the team this past free agency. Huff was living up to a big mantle replacing Haason Reddick who is now with the Jets.
How has he panned out with the Eagles though?
Huff’s Time With The Birds So Far
So far, Huff has been somewhat of a disappointment since signing his big contract. After he had a 10-sack breakout year last season, the Eagles defensive end has struggled to find the same production. So far, Huff has only managed 2.5 sacks and 10 tackles on the year. He recorded the first-half sack against the Browns, with his first full sack coming a week later against the Giants. Huff recorded the final of his sacks before the injury in the team’s matchup against the Cowboys.
This is certainly not the production Philly was hoping for when they signed him to the lucrative deal. However, how much of this was due to the injury limiting his production? Perhaps this provides some clarity on the pass rusher’s slow start to the season and why he hasn’t exactly lived up.
Also, who is going to step up now in his absence? Since Philadelphia runs a rotational defensive line, expect to see more players pushed up the depth chart. Perhaps players like Josh Sweat and Nolan Smith will be given more opportunities. This could be a chance for some of the younger players on the roster to show what they can provide in the front seven.
This has been a similar opportunity that has been given to members of the Eagles secondary when guys like James Bradberry or Avonte Maddox got injured. It will be enticing to see who steps up and who falters in this moment.
Main Photo Courtesy of Eric Hartline – Imagn Images
