The Philadelphia Eagles may have lost three key pieces along their defensive line, but the organization isn't too worried. Not only do they have quality backup players ready for bigger roles, but the team is also waiting to see the fruit of their labors with some of their high-priced talent as well.
Look no further than former Jets edge rusher Bryce Huff. The former undrafted free agent signed a three-year deal in free agency last offseason worth over $51 million.
The idea at hand was that the Eagles could replace an All-Pro in Haason Reddick with Huff and not miss a beat.
That didn't happen.
Huff struggled to get on the field due to injuries and ineffective play against the run. It was his rush defense that was such an issue for Philadelphia last year, and was an extension of his struggles with the Jets as well.
Philadelphia has continuously said all of the right things as it has backed Huff throughout the offseason.
But at the same time ...
They also signed free agents like Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari to help with Huff's deficiencies.
Even so, it's now or never for Huff.
The clock is ticking. He has to go out and show that he can not only improve in run defense, but be an every-down edge rusher that defensive coordinator Vic Fangio can trust.
He didn't show that last season. If he wants to play at all this year and not be a healthy scratch during the Super Bowl like he was, he'll need to show out early and often.