PFF backs up with data the pure dominance of Eagles' defensive line in Week 1

The Eagles had a top-five defensive line unit going into week one of the 2025 season; however, it's a bit difficult to maintain that success with Jalen Carter getting ejected/suspended before their week one matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.

Despite missing Carter, the Eagles' defensive line still managed to perform in the top half of the league despite the absence of the 2024 All-Pro. The Eagles opened the 2025 season as the third-best defensive line unit according to PFF and entered week two as the 12th-ranked unit. Philadelphia's unit graded out at 68.4, being led by Josh Uche, who graded out at 93.9 (92.7 pass grade).

The 11 teams ranked ahead of the Eagles are listed below.

1. Washington Commanders
2. Houston Texans
3. Los Angeles Rams
4. Baltimore Ravens
5. Cincinnati Bengals
6. Cleveland Browns
7. Indianapolis Colts
8. New York Jets
9. New England Patriots
10. Denver Broncos
11. New York Giants

Is that ranking by PFF justified for the Eagles?

The Eagles look to rebound with Carter, hopefully, playing in the full game against Kansas City on Sunday. Vic Fangio spoke to the media earlier in the week, stating how Carter's absence not only affected the team from his skillset on the field, but also due to the fact that Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, and Byron Young all had to take on a larger workload.

While Josh Uche was the highest-rated player on the defensive line, the Eagles saw encouraging play from Jordan Davis (six tackles and one tackle for loss), who shouldered the burden from a play-making perspective while Carter was sidelined. Hopefully, Carter's return can only enhance Davis' efforts and the Eagles as a whole.

The Eagles this week engaged in a decent amount of roster management and realignment, signing EDGE Patrick Johnson to the active roster, signing/waiving Jacob Sykes, and waiving/resigning Gabe Hall. The Eagles may also consider utilizing Azeez Ojulari (EDGE), Ogbo Okoronkwo (EDGE), or Ty Robinson (DT), all of whom were inactive in Week 1, with the hopes of supplementing their 1st team unit.