When the Philadelphia Eagles signed edge rusher Bryce Huff, they secured what might be the NFL’s most overlooked defensive asset.
Despite the buzz around his $51.1 million free agency deal — the highest ever for an undrafted free agent — the former New York Jets standout remains largely underrated, according to Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report. As the Eagles aim to rebuild their defensive front, Huff could emerge as their most essential playmaker in 2024.
Bryce Huff Key Amid Departures
Bryce Huff is set to play a crucial role following the departure of defensive linemen Haason Reddick and Fletcher Cox. Although these losses could leave the Eagles vulnerable, Davenport remains optimistic about Huff’s ability to capitalize on a greater role in Philadelphia. “Huff was the most efficient pass rusher in football last year,” says Davenport, despite playing only 42% of the Jets’ defensive snaps and still tallying 10 sacks.
Bryce Huff’s Role Expands in 2024
A significant question remains: why did Bryce Huff see so little playing time in 2023? One answer might be his struggles against the run, which caused the Jets to limit his snaps. However, the Eagles’ general manager emphasizes a silver lining, suggesting that the Jets simply “kept him fresh for Philly.” Now, as the Eagles plan to offer Huff more field time, fans are eager to see his explosive potential in 2024.
Bryce Huff is one swole dude https://t.co/3U9y5P8Df2
— DRamos 🇭🇳 Go Birds (@PhillyFanHND) May 9, 2024
Bryce Huff’s Rocky Road to Stardom
Bryce Huff’s rise to prominence wasn’t instant. Joining the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2020 after playing at the University of Memphis, his rookie campaign was modest with 16 tackles and 2 sacks.
His subsequent seasons weren’t much better, with only 14 tackles and 2 sacks in 2021, followed by 6 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in 2022. But 2023 was a different story, as Huff transformed into one of the NFL’s biggest breakout stars.
Philadelphia Eagles Banking on Defensive Revival
Philadelphia’s defense ranked 26th in the league last year, so the team needs Huff to bolster their lineup significantly. The Eagles finished 11-6 but stumbled in the playoffs, losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after starting the season 10-1. Huff’s contributions could be instrumental in returning Philadelphia’s defense to its former glory.
Will Bryce Huff’s standout 2023 season prove to be a one-time wonder or the start of a meteoric rise in Philly? The Eagles are betting on the latter. Come September, fans will find out if Bryce Huff is truly the unsung hero ready to turn around the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive fortunes.
Sources: NFL Analysis
