How'd Eagles Defense Move From Heartbreak To Dominance?

The key to this turnaround has been the interior dominance of Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. Carter, at just 23 years old, has emerged as one of the league’s premier defensive tackles. While his 4.5 sacks might not match Javon Hargraves’s production, his ability to command double teams has created opportunities for his teammates and disrupted opposing offenses at their core. Davis has solidified the defensive front with elite run-stopping ability, helping the Eagles stymie some of the NFL’s best rushing attacks.

The pass rush has also evolved, with Nolan Smith stepping into the spotlight during the playoffs. Though his regular season numbers were modest, Smith’s four postseason sacks have come in pivotal moments, highlighting the defense’s ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.

Zack Baun has been the heart of this defensive resurgence, emerging as a cornerstone after joining the Eagles on a one-year deal. Baun’s versatility and instincts have allowed Fangio to deploy complex schemes without compromising coverage or run defense. His performance has exceeded all expectations, and he is now a legitimate contender for Defensive Player of the Year.

The secondary, once a potential weakness, has become a strength thanks to the rapid development of defensive rookie of the year finalists Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Mitchell has established himself as a lockdown corner, while DeJean’s dynamic play in the slot has been a revelation. 

Unlike their relatively healthy 2022 squad, this year’s Eagles have endured significant injuries, including absences from key players like  Nakobe Dean. However, the team’s depth—carefully constructed by General Manager Howie Roseman—has allowed them to thrive despite these challenges. Their ability to adjust and excel in the face of adversity speaks to the discipline and resilience of Fangio’s defense.

Statistically, the Eagles have been a nightmare for opposing offenses, boasting a plus-10 turnover margin in the playoffs and consistently making game-changing plays. This defense no longer relies solely on generating sacks but thrives on speed, sure tackling, and an uncanny knack for capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes.

This reinvented defense bears little resemblance to the unit that reached Super Bowl LVII. Only three players who played more than 40 percent of defensive snaps in 2022—Slay, Josh Sweat, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson—remain. Yet the 2024 Eagles have forged a new identity, one built on adaptability and sustained excellence.

As they prepare for their Super Bowl rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Eagles’ defense carries not just the hopes of Philadelphia but the confidence of a unit that has already proven it can overcome any challenge. Their journey from rebuild to dominance has made them the NFL’s most formidable defense, poised to deliver a championship performance on the game’s biggest stage.