The Philadelphia Eagles do not have a lot of depth on their defensive line, but they have a promising starting lineup that can stuff the run well.
The Philadelphia Eagles have their entire starting defensive line. It performed well for the most part, finishing 10th in run defense.
However, they did not provide much of a pass rush, which contributed to the Eagles finishing 20th in sacks.
Fletcher Cox made the jump in his second year, and he has enough upside to emerge as one of the top 3-4 defensive ends in the league.
Cedric Thornton will start opposite Cox, and he offers very little as a pass rusher. However, his run-stuffing ability was enough to convince the Eagles to bring him back with a one-year deal.
Vinny Curry showed promise as a pass rusher while playing as a rotational end, so he will likely be used on blitzing plays. He finished with four sacks despite limited action.
At nose tackle, Bennie Logan is entering his second season as the starter. He did not offer much as a rookie, but he showed promise and can become a better interior presence if he builds on his potential.
Taylor Hart and Beau Allen will be the key reserves on the Eagles defensive line. Hart is another ex-Oregon player who will be reunited with Chip Kelly.
Hart was drafted in the fifth round, and he is expected to start out as a rotational defensive end. At worst, he will provide depth and give the starters rest when they need it.
Allen was drafted in the seventh round out of Wisconsin, and he will be the backup nose tackle for the Eagles. The trading of Isaac Sopoaga last season leaves room for him to make the team.
Joe Kruger is another player to watch at defensive end, and he is expected to make up the final roster spot for the defensive line. Since six is usually not enough for a defensive line, the Eagles will likely keep seven.
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