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The Philadelphia Eagles are bringing back defensive coordinator Vic Fangio for another campaign, as the veteran coach continues to mold a youthful and explosive defensive squad. Known for his demanding standards, Fangio has transformed the unit into one of the league's statistically strongest over the past two years, developing rookies into immediate contributors and maximizing the strengths of his players.
Despite the overall success, several areas require refinement for the defense to reach an elite tier in 2026. Against the run, the Eagles ranked 15th, allowing 4.2 yards per carry, and finished 22nd with 124.4 rushing yards per game. Opponents converted 39.6% of rushing first downs, the third-highest rate in the NFL, trailing only Buffalo and Minnesota. Remarkably, only two running backs surpassed 100 yards on the season—Kyle Monangai and former Eagle D'Andre Swift, both in the home loss to Chicago.
Quarterbacks also exploited the defense on the ground at times. Patrick Mahomes rushed for 66 yards and a touchdown, Jaxon Dart added 58 yards and a score in a Week 6 loss, and Josh Allen tallied two rushing touchdowns in Week 17. These numbers, however, reflect the secondary's dominance, forcing teams to run more to avoid testing Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. The departure of Nakobe Dean, a physical run-stopper, leaves a gap, but Zack Baun, Jihaad Campbell, and the rest of the linebacker corps are poised to improve in that department.
Key Areas for Improvement
Third-down defense was a notable weakness, as Philadelphia allowed a 41.2% conversion rate, ranking 22nd in the NFL. While better than the 46.2% in 2023, it remains a concern. The defense allowed over five third-down conversions per game, the sixth-most in the league, extending drives and losing the time-of-possession battle.
The pass rush also lacked consistency, prompting the acquisition of Jaelan Phillips from Miami. Phillips, despite injury struggles, joins Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith to form a formidable edge attack. Moro Ojomo, who ranked 11th in pass rush win rate among defensive tackles, adds depth. With Jalen Carter locked up through 2031, his presence commands double teams, opening opportunities for others. Carter's impact was evident in the 2025 NFC Divisional Game, where he sacked Matthew Stafford in a critical moment.
With these improvements, another year of experience for the young core, and additions like Greenard and Riq Woolen, Fangio could lead the NFL's most dangerous and complete defense. The pieces are in place for a top-ten unit with the potential to be the league's most formidable.
Originally reported by headtopics.