The Eagles roster looks much different than it did when it last won the Super Bowl. That will lead to unpredictability from Doug Pederson’s squad in 2019.
It’s unfair to say the Eagles suffered from a full-fledged Super Bowl hangover last year, but no one in Philadelphia wants to go 9-7 again this season. That’s why the team has made plenty of roster changes heading into their 2019 campaign.
Of course, all eyes are going to be on quarterback Carson Wentz this year. Nick Foles is no longer on the roster to serve as his safety net. Wentz has to enjoy a productive and healthy campaign if he’s going to pilot this team to the postseason. Keeping him on the field will be a bigger challenge than making sure he produces when is body is ready to go.
Pederson and his coaching staff have a lot of talent on the defensive side of the ball. They’re particularly excited about their defensive line. Adding Malik Jackson to play beside Fletcher Cox should allow Philadelphia’s defense to control the line of scrimmage week-in and week-out.
5. Ronald Darby will make the Pro Bowl
The amount of talent the Eagles have in their secondary is severely underrated. The group suffered a ton of injuries in 2018, but that seems more like a fluke than a trend. Darby was limited to nine games, but he projects to be ready to go when training camp begins.
If he can stay healthy, he’s positioned to have a really big season. He’s got the size, toughness and athleticism to compete against No. 1 wide receivers on a weekly basis. The pass rush his defensive line should be able to produce will make sure he isn’t asked to do too much. Look for Darby to keep his game simple. That will allow his talent to shine through and his production to be rewarded with a trip to the Pro Bowl.