Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio addressed the media on Tuesday, reflecting on the team”s defensive successes following impressive performances against the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions. Fangio”s press conferences vary in depth, and this week, he provided significant insights worth summarizing.
Fangio expressed confidence in the development of linebacker Nakobe Dean, who has returned to form after recovering from a patellar tendon injury. “I know he worked really hard in his rehab,” Fangio stated. “He was eager to return sooner than the trainers permitted. Nakobe possesses excellent instincts and a strong football IQ. It doesn”t come easy, but it feels natural for him.” Fangio acknowledged that Dean”s performance has been akin to that of a Pro Bowl player since his comeback, indicating that the decision to allow Dean to rest during the Giants game was ultimately beneficial.
When questioned about the possibility of phasing out the rotation between Dean and linebacker Jihaad Campbell, Fangio indicated a desire to keep Campbell involved. “We want to keep Jihaad ready because he is the next guy up as an inside linebacker,” Fangio explained. “However, he has also been receiving some snaps at outside linebacker, so we will likely maintain our current approach.”
Fangio praised Dean”s ability to cover elite players, specifically mentioning his effectiveness against Jahmyr Gibbs and Jameson Williams. He hopes such matchups are not frequent, recognizing the challenges they present. The defensive coordinator also credited Dean, along with Jaelan Phillips and Jalen Carter, for enhancing the team”s run defense. “As a unit, we are performing better,” Fangio noted. “Nakobe has been instrumental, and the contributions from Phillips and Carter have also been significant.”
Reflecting on the defensive line”s past performance, Fangio acknowledged a rough outing during a Week 6 loss to the Giants but highlighted the improvements since then. He pointed out that the reintegration of Dean and Phillips has strengthened the unit. Although Phillips has not played extensive snaps, Fangio included veteran Brandon Graham in the conversation, noting his positive impact on the run game. Fangio remarked on Carter”s improved conditioning and health compared to earlier in the season, following shoulder and heel injuries.
Fangio mentioned that Phillips is nearing the form he displayed before his season-ending injury in 2023. “I believe he is close to returning to that level,” Fangio commented. “He is still a young player and has room for growth.” Phillips has made a notable impact since joining the Eagles, recording multiple tackles and contributing significantly against top-tier right tackles.
Regarding rookie linebacker Nolan Smith, Fangio confirmed that there is a snap count in place to manage his workload. Smith has gradually returned, playing 19 snaps against the Packers and 22 against the Lions. Fangio feels that with the current performance of the defense, keeping Smith”s snaps limited is a sound strategy.
Fangio expressed satisfaction with Adoree” Jackson“s recent performances, highlighting his resilience after an early rough patch. “He got beat a couple of times but made key plays later, including a crucial stop on third down,” Fangio noted. The coach emphasized that while team chemistry among the defensive backs is improving, inconsistency is part of the game.
Finally, Fangio discussed the focus on batted passes during the week leading up to the Lions game, crediting assistant coach Clint Hurtt for implementing a drill aimed at intercepting batted balls. The Eagles” defensive strategies, including advance scouting, have proven effective, allowing them to capitalize on the Lions” tendencies.
Fangio”s insights reflect a commitment to continuous improvement, emphasizing the collaborative effort within the coaching staff and players to bolster the Eagles” defensive capabilities.
