News: The Eagles knew their run defense stunk last year, so they addressed it in the NFL Draft. They took Mississippi State defensive tackle Fletcher Cox with a first-round pick and Cal linebacker Mychal Kendricks with their first second-round choice. They backed those picked up with Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry and Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin. Cox and Kendricks figure to be starters right away.
Analysis: The Eagles defense is much improved this offseason between these rookie moves and the addition of DeMeco Ryans to the middle of the unit. With the secondary settled in after struggling through much of last year and a defensive coordinator who knows he must improve, this is a DST that is worth drafting late this summer. They certainly start the season off with a favorable matchup at Cleveland.
News: The Texans have traded linebacker DeMeco Ryans to the Eagles for a fourth-round draft choice in 2012. Ryans is expected to start in the middle of the Philadelphia defense. When playing in a 4-3 style of defense, Ryans had four straight seasons of 110-plus tackles with 7.5 sacks, 18 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two interceptions.
Analysis: Ryans should be the answer for the Eagles' run-stopping woes. Playing behind a good defensive line and in front of a promising secondary, Ryans should help lead the Eagles defense to a resurgence in 2012. Philly's defense was inconsistent in 2011, allowing 112.6 rush yards per game but just 212.3 passing yards per game. Then again, they allowed 27 passing touchdowns and just 11 rushing touchdowns. With the addition of Ryans, they're in position to be much improved in 2012 given that they'll have an offseason to get their collective act together. They're still worth a late pick on Draft Day.
News: In a fairly surprising move, the Eagles will keep Juan Castillo as their defensive coordinator for the 2012 season. Comcast SportsNet reports that Castillo will stick and that the team will add ex-Dolphins interim head coach Todd Bowles to coach the secondary.
Analysis: Philly's defense was inconsistent in 2011, allowing 112.6 rush yards per game but just 212.3 passing yards per game. Then again, they allowed 27 passing touchdowns and just 11 rushing touchdowns. They did make improvements toward the end of the season and could be in position to be much improved in 2012 given that they'll have an offseason to get their collective act together. They're still worth a late pick on Draft Day.
News: The Eagles DST finished the season with a solid victory over the Washington Redskins on Sunday of Week 17. The Eagles DST held Washington to 377 total yards though they forced just one turnover -- a Rex Grossman interception -- in the 34-10 win. The Eagles DST sacked Grossman once. The DST did block a field goal in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles DST was expected to put up a big effort against the Redskins in Week 17. While they limited Washington's offense and point total, they did little in terms of turnovers forced, sacks made or big plays. For that, the Eagles DST was a bit of a disappointment in the final game of the season. Still, they had a very good year and were one of the better Fantasy DST units around.
News: The Eagles DST heads into the final week of the regular season against Washington with little left to play for except bragging rights in the NFC East. That said, the team is still expected to play hard and the Eagles DST should still perform well against the Redskins. The Eagles DST had a solid performance Week 6 at Washington as the DST racked up 18 Fantasy points. The Eagles DST limited the Redskins to 287 yards and 13 points and forced four turnovers with two sacks. With Rex Grossman throwing passes for the Redskins, the chance of interceptions is always alive.
Analysis: Few quarterbacks are liable to throw as many interceptions as Grossman does and that bodes extremely well in the final game of the regular season for the Eagles DST. The Redskins are banged up, but will look to air it out in hopes of finishing with a flourish. The team might play well, but we still expect a couple turnovers. The Eagles DST has been playing at a high level recently and has seven turnovers forced in the last three games alone. We expect more against Washington and consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 Fantasy unit for the final week of the regular season Week 17.
News: Philadelphia almost shut out Dallas in Week 16, but allowed a touchdown pass in the final minutes of the game. The Eagles knocked Tony Romo out of the game with a hand injury and Felix Jones also sat most of the game after it was announced that the Giants beat the Jets. Philly held Dallas to 238 total yards of offense in the 20-7 win. The Eagles also recorded three sacks on the day. Jason Babin (18) and Trent Cole (10) became the first pair of Eagles to reach double digits in sacks in a season since 1995.
Analysis: Philly swept the Cowboys this season, but are now on the outside looking in at the playoffs. While the front seven have been able to put pressure on the QB, the Eagles have been inconsistent this season. Fantasy owners should consider them a decent option for Week 17 against the Redskins.
News: The Eagles held the Cowboys to seven points back in Week 8 and will look to have a repeat performance on Saturday. The only player that gave Philly trouble in that contest was Laurent Robinson, who had over 100 yards receiving in the contest. If the Eagles can put some pressure on Tony Romo, he could make a mistake. Although Romo has yet to throw an interception yet this month, so the Eagles could have a tough task ahead of them.
Analysis: The Eagles took it to the Jets last weekend, but the Cowboys are playing much better this month than the Jets. Even though they are coming off a great week, Fantasy owners shouldn't put too much faith in Philly. Consider them a No. 2 DST option for Week 16.
News: The Eagles faced off against a Jets offense that had scored 99 points over their last three games in Week 15 and held them to 19 points and four turnovers in a 45-19 drubbing. The Eagles forced Mark Sanchez into two interceptions and sacked him four times while limiting the Jets to 241 yards of total offense. To top it off, DL Juqua Parker got the scoring going for the Eagles with a first quarter touchdown, a 47-yard fumble recovery return. It was his second fumble-return touchdown of the season. DL Jason Babin also had his second-consecutive three-sack game in the win.
Analysis: The Eagles dominated the game from the start, and they took advantage of Sanchez’s inaccuracy and inconsistency to force him into bad mistakes. Babin has been a a monster recently, racking up six sacks in his last two contests. The Eagles face a very tough matchup in Week 16, as the Cowboys have one of the strongest offenses in the league. Despite the dominating show in Week 15, the Eagles are not a recommended Fantasy DST start for Week 16, but they can work as a No. 2 option.
News: The New York Jets have put up their best stretch of the season in recent weeks, scoring 99 points in their last three games. It has corresponded with QB Mark Sanchez’s improved decision making, as he has thrown just one interception over that stretch. It will be imperative for the Eagles, their Week 15 matchup, to get to Sanchez and force mistakes in the passing game to slow the streaking offense down. They have gotten to the quarterback plenty, ranking second in the NFL in sacks this year. If they can do that in Week 15, they may be able to force the mistake-prone Sanchez into making bad throws.
Analysis: Over this strong three-game stretch for the Jets, the opposing Fantasy DSTs they have faced have combined for 14 points, a number which doesn’t bode well for the Eagles. The Eagles DST is coming off a 27 point Fantasy game against Miami, but Sanchez has been playing much better than the combo of Matt Moore and J.P. Losman that Philadelphia feasted on Week 14. With the way the Jets offense has been playing, it’s tough to recommend the Eagles as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 15.
News: The Eagles DST iced the Week 14 game at Miami with a safety as Phillip Hunt sacked Dolphins' QB J.P. Losman in the end zone. The Eagles DST injured starting Dolphins QB Matt Moore earlier in the game and Miami could never recover. The Eagles DST limited Miami to just 204 total yards and 10 points in the 26-10 win. The Eagles DST forced three Miami turnovers and picked up nine sacks in the performance. Trent Cole and Jason Babin had three sacks apiece.
Analysis: The Eagles DST had a monster performance with nine sacks, three turnovers forced and a safety against the Dolphins on Sunday. That more than makes up for the absolute awful efforts the DST had produced the previous two games against New England and at Seattle. Heading into Week 15 against the Jets, the Eagles DST might be on a roll. They should certainly be able to get to Mark Sanchez. Consider starting the Eagles DST as a viable unit in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Eagles DST plays at Miami Week 14 and is coming off a very poor effort last Sunday. The Eagles DST gave up 25 points and 347 yards to Seattle as they failed to force a turnover for the second consecutive game. The Eagles DST has combined for four Fantasy points the last two weeks against the Seahawks and Patriots. Plus, Miami has not been giving up loads of Fantasy points to opposing DST units on the year.
Analysis: The Eagles DST has gone back-to-back with its worst two performances of the season against the Patriots and Seahawks. The Eagles DST is still getting to the quarterback, but forcing turnovers has been a tall order. The Eagles DST has allowed 63 points and 804 yards the last two games and we just can't recommend their usage in Week 14 in Miami. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 2 Fantasy option, at best, for the game.
News: The Eagles' defense struggled in Week 13 at Seattle, allowing 24 points in the Seahawks' 31-14 victory. The Seahawks added a 77-yard interception return to make the final score, but the Eagles still didn’t have much of an answer for the Seahawks’ offense, particularly RB Marshawn Lynch. Lynch scored on touchdown runs of 40 and 15 yards and finished the night with 148 yards on 22 carries. The Eagles failed to produce any turnovers and added just three sacks.
Analysis: Coming off their worst performance of the season in Week 12 against New England, the Eagles were expected to rebound somewhat in Week 13, but obviously that didn’t happen. They failed to force QB Tavaris Jackson into any mistakes, a disappointment given his six interceptions in the team’s previous four games. The Eagles travel to Miami in Week 14 to take on another favorable matchup, but with the way this unit is playing recently, it’s difficult to know what to expect. This defense will likely be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST once again for Week 14, but you may want to consider stronger options despite the appealing matchup.
News: The Eagles DST flies to Seattle to take on the Seahawks on Thursday Week 13. Seattle is allowing the third-most Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units on the season. While the Seahawks were able to keep the Redskins DST in check Week 12, Seattle QB Tarvaris Jackson has been a turnover machine. Plus, he's still playing with a painful pectoral injury that limits him in some ways. The Eagles DST should be healthier in Week 13 as DB Nnamdi Asomugha should be much less banged up.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is coming off its absolute worst performance of the season last week against the Patriots. New England scored 38 points and racked up 457 yards off the Eagles DST. The unit managed just one sack and didn't force a single turnover for just one Fantasy point scored. Prior to that, however, the Eagles DST had been in double figures in Fantasy scoring in five straight games. We like the Eagles DST for a bounce-back performance against the lowly Seahawks Week 13. Consider the Eagles DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST unit.
News: The Eagles defense had a hard time slowing down the Patriots in Week 12. Philadelphia gave up 457 yards of total offense, including 353 through the air, in the 38-20 loss. QB Tom Brady threw for 361 yards and three touchdowns and did not commit a turnover. Both WRs Deion Branch and Wes Welker went over the century mark, with Welker scoring two touchdowns. The Eagles recorded one sack in the defeat.
Analysis: The Eagles gave up a season-high 38 points on Sunday as their talented secondary was unable to keep Brady at bay. While DB Nnamdi Asomugha entered the contest banged up, their safeties will have to start playing better if they want to limit teams. Philadelphia should have better success next week against the Seahawks so consider their DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: The Eagles DST looks to have a tough matchup in Week 12 against the Patriots. New England enters the contest ranked second in total offense, averaging 426.7 yards and 29.3 points per game. Philadelphia is ranked ninth in total defense, but could be without CB Nnamdi Asomugha, who injured his left knee during practice Thursday and is listed as questionable heading into the game.
Analysis: The Eagles defense is going tom have their hands full on Sunday, but not having Asomugha would make things even tougher. If he can't play, DB Joselio Hanson will likely start in his place, which would have Tom Brady licking his chops. Consider the Eagles a No. 2 Fantasy DST against the high-powered Patriots' offense in Week 12.
News: Philadelphia DB Nnamdi Asomugha, one of the Eagles' celebrated free agency acquisitions, injured his left knee during practice Thursday and was taken off the field on a cart. The team had no comment on the extent of the injury and a team spokesman said Asomugha’s status would be updated on Friday. Asomugha was participating in a non-contact drill on the grass fields adjacent to the team’s complex when he was hurt.
Analysis: Asomugha hasn't had the best season as he has been burned for several touchdowns, including one just last week thanks to the Giants' Victor Cruz. He'll be replaced most likely by DB Joselio Hanson, further thinning out the Eagles' secondary. With the Patriots coming to town in Week 12, this isn't the best week to trust the Eagles DST.
News: Comcast SportsNet reports that Eagles CB Nnamdi Asomugha was carted from practice Thursday with a knee injury. The team is expected to issue a statement on Asomugha soon.
Analysis: Asomugha hasn't had the best season as he has been burned for several touchdowns, including one just last week thanks to Victor Cruz. He'll be replaced most likely by Joselio Hanson, further thinning out the Eagles' secondary. With the Patriots coming to town on Sunday, this isn't the best week to trust the Eagles DST.
News: The Eagles defense almost blew the game in the fourth quarter in Sunday's game against the Giants. After a 47-yard pass to Victor Cruz, Jason Babin sacked New York QB Eli Manning, causing a fumble. The Eagles would recover and go on to win the game, 17-10. Philly also intercepted Manning once in the game. The Eagles held the Giants to just 29 yards on the ground and 278 total yards of offense.
Analysis: The Eagles always seems to get to the quarterback -- they had three in Week 11 -- which is one thing Fantasy owners look for. But with Philly facing New England next weekend, the Eagles may not be able to handle that high-powered offense. For that reason owners should view the Eagles DST as more of a No. 2 option for Week 12.
News: Philadelphia travels to take on New York in Week 11, a team averaging 374.2 total yards of offense per game. The Giants are also averaging 24.2 points an outing. The Eagles have struggled defensively this year, despite bringing in a lot of big names. They've allowed at least 370 yards of total offense in two straight games and even allowed John Skelton to throw for three touchdowns last weekend. Opposing DSTs are averaging 8.22 Fantasy points per game against the Giants.
Analysis: The one thing Philly has been able to do this season is get to the quarterback. They got to Skelton four times last week and have 26 sacks on the year. Despite the Eagles' record the DST has been able to produce for Fantasy owners, but they always seem to fold late in games. Heading into Week 11, the Eagles DST should be viewed as a No. 2 option.
News: After missing out on the opportunity to face former QB Kevin Kolb (inactive with a toe injury), the Philadelphia defense forgot to focus on his replacement, John Skelton. The Eagles allowed Skelton to throw for three touchdowns, including two in the fourth quarter during a 21-17 loss to Arizona in Week 10. Philadelphia was torched for 370 total yards in Sunday's game, the second contest in a row it has surrendered at least 370 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles still took advantage of Skelton's inexperience and recorded four sacks for the second time in their past three games. They also picked off the second-year quarterback twice, including one by Asante Samuel who returned the interception 20 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter. However, Philadelphia failed again to hold a late lead and were outscored 14-3 in the second half. Fantasy owners should view the Eagles as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for their NFC East division showdown with the Giants in Week 11.
News: One week after containing the best returnman in the game, the Philadelphia Eagles will face the hottest one in Week 10. Last week, the Eagles managed to keep Chicago’s Devin Hester, who has 17 returns for touchdowns, in check. He had one 12-yard punt return, which is 2.5 yards under his 14.5 average. On Sunday, the Eagles face Arizona and rookie returnman Patrick Peterson, who already is putting up Hester-like numbers. In eight NFL games, Peterson has three punt returns for touchdowns including a 99-yarder in overtime last week as the Cardinals beat St. Louis.
Analysis: In addition to preparing for Peterson, Philadelphia coach Andy Reid said his defense has schemed for both of Arizona's quarterbacks -- Kevin Kolb and John Skelton -- but the Eagles expect Skelton to play because of Kolb's turf toe. That could benefit Philadelphia with creating turnovers as Skelton has thrown just one more touchdown pass (three) than interceptions (two). Fantasy owners should consider the Eagles a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 10 as they could also pile up several sacks on the inexperienced Skelton.
News: The Eagles DST gave up 13 unanswered points on Monday night of Week 9 at home to the Bears. In the end, the Eagles took the loss, 30-24, against Chicago. The Eagles DST allowed 372 yards to the Bears and, in the end, that was just too much. Chicago grabbed a fourth-quarter lead and didn't give it back. Philadelphia forced two turnovers, both on fumbles, and did not manage a single sack in the loss. The highlight for the DST was Brian Rolle's second-quarter 22-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
Analysis: Philadelphia just couldn't stop the bleeding in the fourth quarter on Monday night. Despite coming undone and losing the Week 9 game, the Eagles DST has been playing really well lately. After allowing 20 total points in the previous two games, the Eagles DST broke out the DTD on Monday night. Heading into Week 10 against Arizona, the Cardinals make plenty of mistakes and give up a solid amount of Fantasy points per game to opposing DST units. That bodes well for the Eagles DST, which should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 10 against the Cardinals.
News: After surrendering at least 100 rushing yards in each of its first five games of the season, the Philadelphia defense has shown improvement limiting the run recently. The Eagles have held their last two opponents under the century mark while not permitting a rushing touchdown. However, they face a stiff challenge during their Week 9 matchup in Chicago RB Matt Forte, who is averaging a career-high 5.4 yards per carry this year.
Analysis: Philadelphia has been vulnerable against pass-catching running backs this season and opponents have posted an average of 11.7 yards per catch out of the backfield. That is a strength for Forte, who leads all backs in catches (209) and receiving yards (1,914) since joining the NFL in 2008. But the Eagles still possess a menacing pass rush and Bears QB Jay Cutler has been under pressure all year because of the team's woeful offensive line. Consider Philadelphia a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 9 as the Eagles will likely add to their sack total (22).
News: Just when you thought the Eagles weren't on the same page defensively they stepped up in Week 8 and held the Cowboys to just seven points. Philadelphia registered four sacks and one interception on Tony Romo on Sunday. They held Dallas under 300 total yards of offense as well -- 85 rushing and 182 passing. The Eagles would win the game, 34-7.
Analysis: Philadelphia made some big plays on defense and got plenty of pressure on Romo. If they can do that again in Week 9 against the Bears, Jay Cutler could be in for a long day. Even though Philly looked good on Sunday, it hasn't been all peaches and cream for the Eagles this year. Fantasy owners should view the Eagles DST as a borderline No. 1 option for next week.
News: Philadelphia has struggled defensively this year as they are allowing 217.3 passing and 123.8 rushing yards per contest. One reason could be that they just aren't on the same page. DB Asante Samuel said he knows the Eagles tried to trade him during the offseason. "By Andy (Reid). A couple of people upstairs (president Joe Banner and GM Howie Roseman) might not want me, but who cares? They've probably never played football," Samuel said when asked about whether he feels wanted by the team. The Eagles host the Cowboys in Week 8, a team that DSTs are averaging 11.17 Fantasy points per game against.
Analysis: Philly is coming off a game where they had four interceptions, so if they can put pressure on Tony Romo and force him into some mistakes they could have a big day. The Cowboys can put up big numbers offensively, but so can the Eagles. Even though Philadelphia hasn't performed up to expectations this year, Fantasy owners should still view the Eagles DST as a borderline No. 1 option for Week 8.
News: The Eagles DST came up huge on Sunday of Week 6 in Washington. Philadelphia badly needed a victory, and got one as the Eagles DST made the Redskins look silly virtually all game. The DST knocked Rex Grossman out of the game after forcing four interceptions. Philadelphia allowed Washington just 287 total yards as they won the game 20-13. The Eagles DST forced four turnovers, all coming on those Grossman interceptions. Philly came away with two sacks in the game. Kurt Coleman was the defensive hero for the Eagles with three interceptions and a team-high seven tackles.
Analysis: The Eagles DST had just three interceptions all season before Coleman had three himself and the team recorded four against Grossman and the Redskins on Sunday. Washington was terrible offensively and we attribute a lot of the Eagles' effort to the Redskins' failure to get anything going behind Grossman. The Eagles DST had been slightly underwhelming, but could be getting better now. That said, avoid the DST in Week 7 as Philadelphia is on bye. The team returns Sunday night in Week 8 against Dallas.
News: The Eagles DST, which was just burned in Buffalo Week 5, heads to NFC East rival Washington in Week 6. The Redskins have not given up many Fantasy points to opposing DST units this season. In fact, Washington is allowing the seventh-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing DSTs. No DST has managed double digits in scoring against the Redskins and Washington has not allowed a defensive or special teams touchdown all season.
Analysis: The Eagles DST had a huge Week 1 at St. Louis, but has underwhelmed in four games since. Week 5 at Buffalo was the worst yet with just one sack and one turnover forced. Philadelphia has struggled in tackling and the opposition has racked up large chunks of yardage against them. That said, Washington QB Rex Grossman has been sacked seven times by the Giants and Cowboys and just once by the Cardinals and Rams. Clearly, NFC rivals can get to him where others can't. Plus, Grossman has begun turning the ball over more often lately, with all five of his picks coming in the last three games. For that, the Eagles remains a unit worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The Eagles had an interception and a sack of Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick on Sunday, but that's about all they had. Missed tackles remained a constant problem and the Eagles defense cost them the game when they jumped offsides on a 4th-and-1 play deep in the fourth quarter that gave the Bills a new set of downs to finish the game. Philadelphia allowed just 193 yards passing but 143 yards rushing including 111 from Fred Jackson. The Bills hung 31 points on the Eagles.
Analysis: The Eagles can't slow down the run to save their lives -- seven of Buffalo's first eight plays were Fred Jackson runs, so you know it knew where to attack. The Redskins are sure to try and do the same thing in Week 6, and they'll be coming off a bye to boot. We'd hate to tell you to sit or cut the Eagles DST, but if they remain counterproductive then Fantasy owners won't have a choice. Do yourself a favor and at least consider other options for your DST spot heading into Week 6.
News: The Eagles defense will have their hands full with Fred Jackson and the Bills in Week 5. Philadelphia has proven that they're miserable against the run, and chances are Buffalo will attack with the ground game first and foremost. But the passing game for the Bills has been dangerous too, and the Eagles have struggled there. Ryan Fitzpatrick has averaged 260.0 yards per game and has scored at least two touchdowns in every game except last week's matchup at Cincy.
Analysis: Philadelphia's run defense is sure to give up plenty of yards and at least one score, just as its done in every game this season. With the Bills averaging 33.2 points per game, chances are the Eagles will allow some touchdowns through the air, too. Philly has allowed 10 touchdowns over its last three games -- not so good. Tack on the Eagles being without pass rush stud Trent Cole and this could be a challenging week for the DST. Enough to bench them or cut them? Probably not, but don't start them expecting a solid week.
News: Eagles coach Andy Reid said Monday that defensive coordinator Juan Castillo will keep his position despite the team's latest collapse in Week 4 against the 49ers. "The coaches will stay intact and then we go from there," Reid said. "We look at everything every week, and that's what we do. So that's no different this week."
Analysis: San Francisco, which came into Week 4 averaging 213.7 yards per game, broke out for 442 yards, including 164 rushing yards. They scored 21 unanswered points to win the game as Philly fell to 1-3. You can understand the Eagles' frustrations as they are expected to be top contenders and the defense isn't performing up to standards, as they should boast one of the best secondaries in the NFL. Castillo has never been a defensive coordinator on the pro or college level, so it seems he still has some adjusting to do. It hasn't helped his cause that his defensive line has been banged up and now star end Trent Cole could be out several weeks with a calf injury. The potential is there with the Eagles DST, but consider them a low-end Fantasy start heading into Week 5 against a good Bills offense.
News: The Eagles defense had a second-half collapse Week 4 against the 49ers and it proved costly in a 24-23 loss. The 49ers scored 21 unanswered points in the second half. San Francisco, which came into the game averaging 213.7 yards per game, broke out for 442 yards, including 164 rushing yards. The Eagles forced one turnover and three sacks. "All we have to do is stop them one time at the end of the game and we win it. Just one stop, and we couldn't do it. It's not good right now," cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha said.
Analysis: To make matters worse the Eagles lost linemen Antonio Dixon and Trent Cole to injuries, and they were already down lineman Darryl Tapp and Juqua Parker to injuries. The Eagles have now lost three straight games and the defense has played a part in their demise. The defense has allowed 24 or more points in three straight games. They continue to make personnel changes on defense, but it's not helping. The potential is there with the Eagles DST, but consider them a low-end Fantasy start heading into Week 5 against a good Bills offense.
News: The Eagles head into Week 4 against the 49ers ranking 12th in total defense (329.0 ypg), but they have had trouble keeping opposing teams out of the end zone. The Eagles are allowing 25.7 points per game, which is 25th best in the NFL. Although, the matchup for the defense appears favorable in Week 4. The 49ers are dead last in total offense (213.7 ypg), but surprisingly rank 12th in scoring offense (23.3 ppg). The 49ers could also be without starting RB Frank Gore (ankle) and WR Michael Crabtree (foot) due to injuries.
Analysis: You ask what is the large discrepancy between the points score and total yards per game for San Francisco? And the answer is that Ted Ginn had two special teams scores in Week 1, which helped boost the scoring average. The 49ers are still in a transition period under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh. They are still not an elite offense, so you probably should consider starting the Eagles DST in Fantasy Week 4.
News: The Eagles gave up 29 points in a Week 3 loss at home to the Giants. They allowed 334 total yards of offense and gave up four touchdown passes to QB Eli Manning. They managed three sacks in the game, but did not force a turnover.
Analysis: The Eagles were the first team to not force Manning to throw an interception in seven games dating back to last season. They fell behind early, giving up 14 points in the first quarter before settling in for the second and third quarters to allow their offense to take the lead. Manning threw a pair of touchdown passes in the fourth, however, proving to be the difference. The Eagles have been beat up defensively in back-to-back weeks by the Giants and Falcons, but remain a very useful Fantasy unit given their ability to get after the quarterback and (typically) force turnovers. They'll face a much weaker offense in Week 4 at home against San Francisco. Consider them a solid play in any format for that matchup.
News: The Eagles will take on the New York Giants in their home opener in Week 3. Last season, the Eagles held the Giants to 17 points in their only meeting in Philadelphia. They gave up 31 points on the road. In their home matchup against the Giants, they forced five turnovers (three interceptions, two fumbles).
Analysis: The Giants rank 22nd in the NFL in total offense after two games, looking mostly unimpressive after dealing with key losses in the passing game this offseason. The Eagles know the Giants very well and have had a good history of rattling QB Eli Manning throughout their recent meetings -- especially in Philadelphia. With Manning prone to turnovers, this could become a very fruitful matchup for Fantasy owners. Consider them a good No. 1 unit in any format for Week 3 and beyond.
News: The Eagles defense was able to cause some turnovers in Week 2 against the Falcons. They picked off QB Matt Ryan twice and sacked him four times. However, Philadelphia allowed 318 yards of total offense and five touchdowns, including four through the air, in the 35-31 loss. Nnamdi Asomugha and Asante Samuel had the interceptions for the Eagles.
Analysis: The Eagles vaunted secondary held Ryan to under 200 yards passing but got carved up for 138 yards and a touchdown on the ground. They should be able to get a solid pass rush while blanketing receivers going forward but they will need better play out of their linebackers if they plan on slowing down the run. With the Giants on the schedule in Week 3, Philadelphia will be put to the test but based on their performance thus far, continue to view the Eagles DST as a viable option in Fantasy.
News: The Eagles have a very favorable matchup for Week 2 against the Falcons. Atlanta threw for 276 yards and gained 110 yards on the ground in their season opener, while Philadelphia held their opponent to 181 yards through the air and 154 yards rushing. When these two teams faced each other a year ago, the Eagles gave up 293 yards of total offense in the 31-17 win.
Analysis: The Eagles DST was very impressive in Week 1 but it showed some flaws. Teams will be able to run against their defense, but their secondary is second to none. With the way the Falcons like to throw the ball around, Philadelphia should be able to limit the passing game and stack to box to slow down Michael Turner. That being the case, consider the Eagles as a No. 1 DST for Week 2.
News: The Eagles debuted their improved secondary in Week 1 against the Rams in St. Louis with successful results. They held QB Sam Bradford to 188 yards and no touchdowns and recovered a fumble that was returned for a touchdown in the first quarter. The Eagles allowed just 13 points in the game, giving up 335 total yards o offense. They forced the one turnover in the game and managed five sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles had the young quarterback baffled for much of the game. They swarmed him with their usual aggressive pass rush and also had excellent coverage down field, giving up few big plays. The Eagles remain one of top defensive units in Fantasy for their ability to get after the quarterback. They'll face the Falcons on the road in Week 2 and remain a must-start in most formats.
News: The Eagles will begin the 2011 regular season on the road in St. Louis. They'll be matched up against an offense that ranked 26th in the NFL last season in points per game (18.1) and 21st in yards per game (204.2). The Eagles ranked 12th in the NFL in terms of fewest yards allowed per game (327.2) last season. They ranked 11th in points allowed per game (19.3).
Analysis: On paper, this does not look like a very threatening matchup for the Eagles defense. The Rams have a promising, but inexperienced second-year quarterback in Sam Bradford and an unproven wide receiver group. Steven Jackson should present the Eagles with trouble in the running game, given their aggressive approach, but we still recommend the Eagles as a viable play in any standard 12-team format for Week 1. Their ability to get after the quarterback to record sacks and force turnovers sets them apart even in games when they do give up points and yards.
News: In their most extensive action this preseason, the Eagles defense stepped up to the occasion in Thursday's preseason game against the Browns. The starting unit was on the field for the entire first half, as they held Cleveland scoreless. They held Colt McCoy and company to just 103 yards of offense, and Asante Samuel got in front of one of his passes on an interception while the front seven provided three sacks in the first two quarters. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie blocked a field goal attempt later in the win and rookie LB Casey Matthews held his own with three tackles in limited action.
Analysis: The defense was as solid as advertised, though RB Peyton Hillis had some early success with 53 total yards on just five touches. The new additions had a hand in all the success, which may be a sign of things to go. Fantasy owners should expect some bumps in the road with all the new faces, but the unit should be considered a No. 1 DST without a doubt.
News: The Eagles swooped into the Nnamdi Asomugha derby and got the cornerback with a five-year, $60 million contract that includes $25 million guaranteed. Asomugha will now anchor an already-impressive secondary that added Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie on Thursday and had quality cornerback Asante Samuel on the roster already.
Analysis: The Eagles DST gets a nice bump with this addition, really a rich-get-richer type of signing. Asomugha's pass coverage will tilt offenses away from his side of the field, and with the pass rush in Philadelphia already a strength (they added Jason Babin), turnovers should come more frequently. The Eagles are among the rare DSTs worth taking three or four rounds before the end of drafts because of how much potential they bring. Their matchups against the Redskins are already circled on our calendars.
News: After bringing in talented pass-rusher Jason Babin as a free agent on Thursday, the team completed a trade that brought CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie to the team in exchange for QB Kevin Kolb. The Eagles defense is becoming more bolstered by the day as they look to regain their early 2000's form when they were a top-10 unit year-in, year-out.
Analysis: Babin reunites with his old D-line coach, Jim Washburn, who already headed to Philly. He and Trent Cole have the chance to create plenty of panic for the opposing quarterback, and now Rodgers-Cromartie pairs with Samuel to form one of the best tandems in the NFL potentially. We like the Eagles DST as a rising low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST depending on how the final product executes on the field under new coordinator Juan Castillo.
News: The Eagles have agreed to terms with free agent DE Jason Babin of the Titans, reuniting him with his old D-line coach, Jim Washburn. Babin, who had 12.5 sacks last season, agreed to a 5-year deal worth a reported $30 million. Babin will be a book end pass rusher opposite Trent Cole, who had 10 sacks in 2010.
Analysis: Babin reuniting with Washburn will go a long way in helping him stay productive. The Eagles figure they had to make this move in order to keep their pass rush strong with second-year player Brandon Graham expected to start the year on the PUP list. We like the Eagles DST as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: Juan Castillo is the new defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, the team announced on Wednesday. What makes the move interesting is that Castillo spent 13 seasons as an Eagles offensive line coach, so he's switching sides. The Eagles also added veteran offensive line coach Howard Mudd to Andy Reid's staff. A former linebacker at Texas A&I (1978-80), Castillo, 51, played for the USFL's San Antonio Gunslingers (1984-85), and also was an assistant at Texas A&M-Kingsville from 1982-85.
Analysis: Several NFL head coaches who worked in Philadelphia, including the Panthers' Ron Rivera and the Vikings' Leslie Frazier, praised the move citing Castillo's work with the defense in helping analyze blitz and protection schemes. It sounds like Castillo is going to be fine as the coordinator even though he's spent over a decade working with the offensive line. It also hints at the Eagles sticking with the 4-3 defense, which makes sense given the personnel. We also think that defensive line coach Jim Washburn will have a heavy hand in the defensive gameplanning. This should end up being a positive for the Eagles defense, making their DST a desirable unit for Fantasy play in 2011.
News: The Eagles have fired defensive coordinator Sean McDermott after the unit underachieved this season, giving up 377 points -- the most since 1974 . The defense did not get the job done when it counted most, in the red zone -- ranking dead last in the NFL. Philadelphia ranked 12 in total defense, but just 21st in scoring defense, allowing 23.6 points per game.
Analysis: McDermott took over for the late Jim Johnson before the 2009 season, and the defense has not been the same. They still tried to be as aggressive as before, but teams picked up on it and the Eagles were often gashed. As the search for a new DC begins, we doubt Philly would be interested in a transition to the 3-4 scheme. The unit still possess loads of talented players, although young.
News: Throughout the season, the Philadelphia defense struggled to effectively contain its opponents' passing game. That trend carried over into the postseason as the Eagles allowed three touchdowns through the air and were eliminated by Green Bay after losing 21-16 in an NFC Wild Card matchup on Sunday. Philadelphia, which surrendered more than 200 passing yards to 10 opponents in the regular season, allowed Packers QB Aaron Rodgers to complete 18 of his 27 attempts for 180 yards. The Eagles did not record an interception for the third game in a row and allowed Rodgers to record four pass plays of 15 yards or more.
Analysis: Philadelphia tried to use its patented blitzing packages to rattle Rodgers but only reached the quarterback for two sacks Sunday -- the sixth consecutive outing with at least two sacks. The Eagles offense also didn't help too much as it chewed up just 28 minutes in time of possession to keep a weary defensive unit on the field for most of the game. Green Bay pressed the Philadelphia defense, which forced two fumbles, throughout the game and scored three touchdowns on four possessions. The Eagles collected just four turnovers in its last four games and forcing the offense to produce nearly of the scoring at the end of the season. Still, Philadelphia will be one of the first DST taken in 2011 Fantasy drafts and should be viewed as a top option for next season.
News: The Eagles defense did not play many of their starters in Week 17 against the Cowboys, but they still had a solid performance. Philadelphia held Dallas to just 272 yards of total offense but lost the game 14-13. They sacked QB Stephen McGee, who was making his first career start, two times but could not cause a turnover.
Analysis: Philadelphia has played well on defense so far this season but there was no sense in risking further injury to starters in a meaningless game. They still did a solid job with mostly backups and will head into the postseason with fresh legs on both sides of the ball. The Eagles defense plays better when the offense can eat up some clock so keep an eye on their performance in the playoffs. Heading into 2011, consider the Eagles DST as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: The Eagles enter Week 17 against the Cowboys having locked up the No. 3 seed in the NFC and dealing with some injuries on both side of the ball. They will most likely rest most of their starters on defense has they face a Dallas team that they held to 27 points and 349 yards of total offense earlier in the year. “If they can’t play I’m not going to throw them in there. But if they can go, then they go and we’ll just see how all of that plays out.” coach Andy Reid said.
Analysis: Philadelphia has played well on defense so far this season but there is no sense in risking further injury to starters in a meaningless game. That being said, the Cowboys might be forced to start QB Stephen McGee on Sunday, putting the Eagles DST in a solid spot. Dallas ranks fourth in the league in passing but 18th in rushing the ball while Philadelphia ranks 13th in the league against the run and 16th in pass defense. While they are not the most trustworthy option, consider the Eagles a low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 17.
News: The Eagles DST allowed 337 yards of offense in the Tuesday night Week 16 embarrassing loss to the Minnesota Vikings at home. Philadelphia was completely flat on both sides of the football and fell to Minnesota, 24-14. The Eagles DST forced just one turnover, an Adrian Peterson fumble, as rookie QB Joe Webb was able to direct his team to just enough offense to hold off the Eagles in their own house. The Eagles DST only managed two sacks of Webb in the game and simply did not have the same motivation they've played with in recent weeks.
Analysis: The Eagles DST didn't have a big performance even without Brett Favre in action with Joe Webb starting for the Vikings. Still, while Webb struggled, he wasn't forced into a lot of turnovers or sacks and Minnesota was leading for a good chunk of the game. The Eagles DST just didn't look like the same dominant unit we've seen at times this season. In fact, the unit in general has really struggled since the beginning of Week 12. They are playing Dallas in Week 17 in what should be a pretty important game. If you've been using them as your top DST unit all year, you should go ahead and keep them active in the final regular-season game.
News: The Eagles defense was gashed by the Giants last week, but they were bailed out in walk-off fashion by their special teams. In Week 16, they face a more manageable offense against the Vikings. Minnesota is one of the most banged-up teams in the NFL, and their offense has put up a combined 17 points in their last two games as a result. Superstars Brett Favre (concussion) and Adrian Peterson (thigh) have been in and out of practice throughout the last two weeks. If Favre is out, rookie Joe Webb will get the nod. The Eagles attacking style of defense could add to the team's league-leading interception total (23) with a rookie at the helm. Peterson has a much better chance of playing.
Analysis: If Favre is out, the Eagles need to look no further than their division rival for a blueprint on how to slow down Peterson. The Giants held him to 26 yards on 14 carries just two weeks ago, although he suffered the thigh injury in that game. Still, the game plan becomes a simple one without Favre in the lineup. Webb is more of a running QB, which should not present too much of a problem for the athletic Eagles defense. We expect defensive coordinator Sean McDermott to apply even more pressure than he normally does if the rookie QB gets the nod. In that scenario, we like the Eagles DST to be a No. 1 Fantasy unit in Week 16.
News: The Eagles got a huge lift from their special teams in Week 15 at the Giants when DeSean Jackson returned a punt 65 yards for a game-winning touchdown as time expired. That punt return capped a 28-point fourth quarter to help the Eagles eclipse a big defecit to win 38-31. Defensively, the Eagles allowed the Giants to get out to a 24-3 first-half lead. They allowed just one second-half touchdown, however, and allowed 364 total yards to go along with 31 points. They forced two turnovers (an interception and a fumble recovery) and managed three sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles have allowed at least 24 points in four straight games and have been giving up a ton of yardage. Where they have been able to make up for this is in the amount of pressure they can put on opposing quarterbacks, the amount of turnovers they are able to force and the fact they have one of the more explosive kick returners in the game. The Eagles will face a more favorable matchup in Week 16 against Minnesota, but they remain just a low-end No. 1 defensive unit in Fantasy. Weigh your options carefully.
News: Eagles coach Andy Reid said Monday that LB Stewart Bradley (dislocated elbow) will miss the final three games of the regular season and rookie DE Brandon Graham (torn ACL) will miss the rest of the year. Both were hurt during the Eagles' Week 14 win at Dallas. In better news, CB Asante Samuel (knee) is expected to practice and play this week and have a shot at playing in a big NFC East showdown at the Giants in Week 15.
Analysis: The Eagles DST remains a popular option in Fantasy Football because they rack up sacks and turnovers. One problem: They're not pining down opponents to low scores. They've held one opponent to under 10 points and four to 17 or fewer points. With the Giants' offense getting healthy, owners should consider the Eagles DST a good but not great start in their upcoming matchup.
News: The Eagles defense led the NFL with 20 interceptions coming into the Week 14 game against the Cowboys, and they added onto that on Sunday night. Quinton Mikell and Dimitri Patterson were able to get in front of two of QB Jon Kitna's passes, further extending the pick lead. They also sacked Kitna once, courtesy of Darryl Tapp. Otherwise, they were an average unit, giving up 27 points and 349 yards on the night. It was the sixth time in 13 games that they allowed at least 27 points to an opponent. Philadelphia could not cover TE Jason Witten, who scored on the Cowboys first possession and got behind the defense late in the game for another score.
Analysis: The Eagles continue to be a high-risk/high-reward unit that causes turnovers, but gives up their fair share of points and yards. They should be able to rebound slightly in the coming weeks with the expected return of CB Asante Samuel (knee), who still leads the league with seven INTs despite missing the last three games. Still, the defense has set records for how poor they are in the red zone and Dallas converted on two of three attempts. Heading into the Week 15 game against the Giants, we like the Eagles DST as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit. They held the Giants to 17 points and created five turnovers against them just three weeks ago.
News: The Eagles defense leads the NFL with 20 interceptions on the season, to go along with eight fumble recoveries. CB Asante Samuel leads the league with seven picks by himself, but he won't be able to play in the Week 14 game against the Cowboys because of a knee sprain. The already-young defense will be without Samuel's talent and his leadership role on the field. Even with him healthy for most of the year, the Eagles are the worst team in the league when an opponent enters the red zone. "Having a young defense, you've got to make sure you have the right mind-set," defensive coordinator Sean McDermott said. "When you get down there (in the red zone), the chips are stacked against you so to speak, and you need to hold them to a field goal." They have allowed 26 touchdowns in 33 trips by the opponent inside the 20, which is a league-worst 78.8 failure rate. That pathetic red-zone rate is the worst in the league in the last 22 years. The Cowboys have averaged more than 33 points in their last four games.
Analysis: The loss of Samuel could be pivotal on Sunday night. "(Not having Samuel) is huge," McDermott said. "He's a very good player, a very good player. A Pro Bowl corner." Dallas comes into the game winners of three of their last four games, and they have dominated the Eagles in their last three meetings -- all Cowboy wins in 2009. But what the Cowboys have not faced is the more-explosive Eagles offense led by Michael Vick and the defense that creates turnovers like the Philly teams from earlier in the decade used to. Cowboys QB Jon Kitna has thrown eight interceptions since taking over for Tony Romo over the last six games, though he has just two picks in his last four outings. The Eagles should have a lead in this game, perhaps forcing Dallas to throw more than they want to. Consider the Eagles DST to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit heading into the Week 14 matchup.
News: The Eagles defense made a great fourth-quarter stand to help finish off the Texans, 34-24, in Week 13. The Philadelphia defense was in control in the first half as the Eagles carried a 20-10 lead into halftime. Unfortunately, the Texans came out of the break on fire. QB Matt Schaub led two touchdown drives of 79 yards or more to put Houston up 24-20 going into the fourth quarter. Then, the Eagles reversed course by shutting out the Texans in the fourth and scoring the last two touchdowns. Philadelphia helped sealed the victory by forcing Schaub to fumble with 2:25 remaining. Schaub also threw an interception in the first half, but he did finish with 337 passing yards and two touchdowns. The Texans had 431 yards, while the Eagles recorded two sacks.
Analysis: Outside of a shaky third quarter, the Eagles defense held a very explosive Texans offense in check. Houston managed just 183 yards in the first half and got a lot of garbage yards late as they were trying to rally in the fourth quarter. Surprisingly, the Eagles did all this without two of their better defenders -- Asante Samuel and Juqua Parker, who were out with injuries. The Eagles DST hasn't produced the Fantasy numbers we had hoped for, but they are still a top 10 Fantasy option. Consider keeping the Eagles DST active heading into Week 14, when Philadelphia travels to Dallas.
News: The Eagles defense led the league in turnovers caused, but had none against the Bears in last week's loss. "There are going to be games where you don't have a turnover," coach Andy Reid said. "You've just got to keep fighting." The Eagles will get their chance at it on a short-turnaround in Week 13 against the Texans. The Thursday night matchup brings in a Houston offense that now sports a balanced attack with the NFL's-leading rusher Arian Foster commanding attention inside. Still, WR Andre Johnson -- widely considered the league's best -- dwells on the outside. The key to a successful night will be in the turnover game -- only two teams have turned over the ball less than Houston, and in the red zone -- the Eagles are dead last in the league in red-zone defense, giving up 23 TDs in 30 chances.
Analysis: When a defense causes turnovers and simultaneously prevents red zone attempts, it is stingy against the pass (how most first downs are converted). The team's top defensive back, Asante Samuel (who would likely shadow Johnson), missed las week's game with a knee issue and he is listed as questionable heading into Thursday night's matchup. Also, consistent DL Jaqua Parker has been ruled out with an ailing hip for the second straight game and rookie Brandon Graham will have to step in. The two injuries could prevent the Eagles from containing the Texans seventh-ranked offense overall. However, Philly remains one of the NFL's best team's at calculating their blitz-schemes to make-up for yardage in tight spots. We like the Eagles DST as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit with their big-play potential defensively.
News: Playing without its two starting cornerbacks Asante Samuel (inactive) and Ellis Hobbs (out for season), the Eagles defense was shaky all game and allowed a career-high four touchdown passes to Bears quarterback Jay Cutler in a 31-26 loss in Week 12. Samuel, who leads the NFL with seven interceptions, missed the game with a knee injury. In turn, Philadelphia did not record an interception for the first time this season and allowed Chicago to post its highest point total of the season.
Analysis: Philadelphia actually out-gained Chicago by 49 total yards in Sunday's game but allowed the Bears to complete seven plays of 20-plus yards. The Bears averaged 6.6 yards per offensive play and by the third quarter, the Eagles defense had given up more rushing yards than it had to any opponent since Week 4. Philadelphia did manage to sack Cutler four times, including two from defensive end Trent Cole. The Eagles return home to play Houston in Week 13 and could have trouble stopping the Texans' high-powered offense. Consider the Eagles DST a low-end Fantasy option for Thursday's game.
News: Philadelphia DB Asante Samuel will not travel with the team to Chicago for Week 12 and is officially out for the game. This definitely hurts the Eagles DST. Philadelphia's opponent Sunday -- Chicago -- still has troubles turning the ball over despite a three-game win streak. The Bears are tied for sixth in the NFL with 22 turnovers, though have committed just four since their bye week in Week 8. What makes the matchup intriguing for the Eagles: they lead the NFL with 26 takeaways and 19 interceptions, and up next is Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who has thrown a pick in six of nine games this season. That said, losing Samuel definitely takes a hit in that regard.
Analysis: Expect Eagles defensive coordinator Sean McDermott, already a proponent of an aggressive pass rush, to blitz heavily. If Cutler, who has been sacked a league-high 33 times, is plagued by more inefficient offensive line play it could be a boon for the Eagles defense. Philadelphia, which has allowed an average of 16.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, has recorded 26 sacks this season. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option, even without Samuel.
News: Eagles head coach Andy Reid was noncommittal about the status of his three injured players -- CB Asante Samuel, DT Antonio Dixon and DE Juqua Parker. All are questionable for Week 12 at Chicago. "They've all made progress, and they're all still day-to-day," Reid said, adding he'd be fine starting Samuel and Parker without them practicing because they're veterans.
Analysis: What makes the matchup intriguing for the Eagles: they lead the NFL with 26 takeaways and 19 interceptions, and up next is Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who has thrown a pick in six of nine games this season. Expect Eagles defensive coordinator Sean McDermott, already a proponent of an aggressive pass rush, to blitz heavily. If Cutler, who has been sacked a league-high 33 times, is plagued by more inefficient offensive line play it could be a boon for the Eagles defense. Philadelphia, which has allowed an average of 16.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, has recorded 26 sacks this season. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option, though we'd feel better about it if Samuel and Parker played.
News: A week after forcing five turnovers in a 27-17 triumph over the Giants, the Eagles are anticipating another big defensive outing in Week 12. Philadelphia's opponent Sunday -- Chicago -- still has troubles turning the ball over despite a three-game win streak. The Bears are tied for sixth in the NFL with 22 turnovers, though have committed just four since their bye week in Week 8. What makes the matchup intriguing for the Eagles: they lead the NFL with 26 takeaways and 19 interceptions, and up next is Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, who has thrown a pick in six of nine games this season.
Analysis: Expect Eagles defensive coordinator Sean McDermott, already a proponent of an aggressive pass rush, to blitz heavily. If Cutler, who has been sacked a league-high 33 times, is plagued by more inefficient offensive line play it could be a boom for the Eagles defense. Philadelphia, which has allowed an average of 16.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, has recorded 26 sacks this season. However, the Eagles could be without starting cornerback Asante Samuel (knee), who missed practice on Wednesday. With or without Samuel, consider Philadelphia a high-end No. 1 Fantasy DST play this week.
News: The Eagles defense came up with five big turnovers in order to hold on for the victory over the Giants in Week 11. Three of them were the product of CB Asante Samuel making plays. He recovered a fumble early in the game and intercepted QB Eli Manning twice on the night. The Giants got 17 points after two Manning TD passes in the second half. In the passing game, the Eagles limited him to 147 yards and Philly limited the team to 208 yards of offense total. RBs Ahmad Bradshaw (who also lost a fumble) and Brandon Jacobs combined for just 39 yards rushing on the night. The Eagles did not register a sack on the night, however.
Analysis: The Eagles defense prevented this game from being a shootout by stopping the run first. They utilized run blitzes effectively to demoralize the rush offense. Manning failed to respond in the passing game and the scoreboard hides the dominance the Eagles were able to enjoy over the Giants. In Week 12, Philadelphia travels to Chicago to take on the Bears. Their offense is ranked 30th in the NFL in total yards heading into the game, so the Eagles can be in for another big night defensively, especially facing another turnover-prone QB in Jay Cutler. Consider them to be a No. 1 Fantasy DST heading into that matchup.
News: Heading into Week 11, the Eagles defense is coming off of a rout of the Redskins that looked easy. They even scored a touchdown after Dimitri Patterson took one of their league-leading 16 interceptions back for a touchdown. But the Sunday night opponent --the Giants -- sport the NFC's top offense, averaging 409.8 yards per game. The Giants have a balanced attack led by QB Eli Manning, who has racked up 2,448 yards passing and has thrown an NFL-leading 19 TDs. On the ground, Ahmad Bradshaw sits as the NFL's third leading rusher with 838 yards. Philadelphia ranks 16th against the pass and 12th against the run.
Analysis: The winner of the Sunday night game will have sole possession of first place in the NFC East. Expect the Eagles to blitz Manning early and often to try and induce him into turnovers, as he trails only Brett Favre with 13 interceptions thrown this season. "When you play the Eagles, you have to play perfect," said Manning. The game could turn into a bit of a shootout with two elite passing games, but the Eagles DST has the ability to break up scores by creating turnovers. Consider them to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST in Week 11.
News: On a night were the Eagles set team records for total yards in a game (592), points in a half (45), the Eagles' defense decided to get in on the fun in Week 10 against the Redskins The unit surrendered 28 points and gave up 375 yards of offense, but were able to forc three turnovers, record two sacks and score a touchdown in the rout. All three turnovers came off interceptions, including two by DB Dimitri Patterson, who picked off a Donovan McNabb pass and took it 40 yards for a touchdown. The Eagles defense allowed 105 yards rushing and did not allow Washington to record a first down until the second quarter.
Analysis: The Eagles defense gave up some points and yards on Monday, but most of those cam when the game was out of reach. The unit was able to apply constant pressure on McNabb and had the luxury of being spotted a 35-0 lead in the second quarter. The Eagles DST will face a Giants squad in Week 11 that has plenty of weapons on offense and can put up points in a hurry. Consider the Eagles a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST heading into Week 11.
News: Philadelphia allowed Washington to score 14 points in the first quarter in their last meeting back in Week 4. Philly allowed former QB Donovan McNabb to throw for 124 yards. They got to McNabb just once, something they'll need to change in Week 10. They also picked him off once in the contest. The Eagles have 24 sacks and 13 interceptions on the year, so they will have to keep the pressure on the Redskins, especially with many young players getting significant playing time. "You adapt to the hand you're dealt in every situation. And I love it. I love the energy," defensive coordinator Sean McDermott said. He added that the Lions put pressure on McNabb, which kept him off balance and led to success for Detroit. The Redskins' ground game to rack up 169 yards in the team's last meeting too, something McDermott wants to change. "It really doesn't matter to us. ... Whether it's (Ryan) Torain or(Clinton) Portis or whoever, we'll take the challenge," McDermott said of Washington's running back situation.
Analysis: The Eagles have their assignments for success, it is just a matter of execution now. With McNabb getting pulled in the Redskins last game and the fact they have a banged up backfield, the Eagles defense can probably taste the blood in the water. Plus having DeSean Jackson as the return man makes Philly's DST a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 10.
News: Colts QB Peyton Manning entered Week 9 being sacked seven times and had just two interceptions. The Eagles got to Manning three times and picked him off twice. The Eagles have a sack in 27 straight games after this outing. "They have some good players up front and good cover guys, as well," Manning said of Philly's pressure. "We couldn't get any rhythm in the second half, and you have to give Philly a lot of credit for that." Manning did throw for 294 yards, but was able to toss just one touchdown pass. With injuries to two running backs, the Eagles held the Colts to 62 yards on the ground. Philadelphia was penalized 14 times in the game -- one coming on a play that gave WR Austin Collie a concussion. The Eagles appeared to have thwarted Indy's drive when Manning got sacked and fumbled on fourth-and-18, but a penalty on Trent Cole for slapping Manning in the helmet as he reached for the ball gave the Colts a first down. "It was tough. We got a lot of bad breaks today, but we just fight," DB Asante Samuel said of the team's 14 penalties. "We know it's going to be a four-quarter game, and we just fought to the end. We fought like champions today."
Analysis: Philadelphia gave up 356 total yards of offense to the Colts and came away with the 26-24 win in Week 9. The Eagles face the Redskins in Week 10, a team that gained 294 yards on them in Week 4. Former Philly QB Donovan McNabb got pulled in the last game the Redskins played, and they have some injuries heading into Week 10. Fantasy owners should consider the Eagles a low-end No. 1 DST option next week.
News: Philadelphia gave up 37 points to Tennessee and gave up 225 yards receiving to Kenny Britt. In Week 9, the Eagles host the Colts and Peyton Manning. "We're excited. It's a big challenge, but we're ready for it," safety Quintin Mikell said on playing Manning. "We're not going to sit back and be scared." Manning has played the Eagles three times in his career, going over 300 yards once and has a total of seven touchdowns. This season the Eagles are giving up 206.1 yards per contest through the air, but allowed Kerry Collins to toss for 276 and three scores back in Week 7. Philadelphia is coming off a bye week, which has given them two weeks to prepare for Manning and the Colts. Indianapolis is averaging 40.3 points per game in its last four meetings with the Eagles and are 5-2 against Philly since moving to Indy. The average margin of victory for the Colts in those four games is 25 points.
Analysis: The Colts running game isn't that good, so the Eagles will focus primarily on getting to Manning. Unfortunately trying to contain Manning is not the easiest thing to do. And after the team's last outing, they'll want to have a big performance. But seeing how that performance is coming in a week where they face the Colts, Fantasy owners should shy away from the Eagles this week. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 9.
News: The Eagles allowed a season-high 37 points in Week 7 against the Titans in Tennessee. They allowed 328 net offensive yards, including 225 yards to WR Kenny Britt. Britt scored three times in the game. Philadelphia racked up three sacks in the game and forced three turnovers. The Eagles came out strong defensively and forced two early turnovers. But when Britt entered the game following a quarter-plus long benching as punishment, the game turned on its head.
Analysis: Philadelphia's strategy was clearly to stop RB Chris Johnson and they spent much of the game stacking the game against the run. Even with just one receiver making plays, the Titans were able to exploit the Eagles' secondary with several plays. To be fair, the Titans did not show much of a threat in the passing game all year coming in. To add injury to insult, the Eagles allowed a touchdown on the final play of the game when Kevin Kolb threw an interception and it was returned for a 41-yard score. The Eagles will have a chance to regroup in Week 8 when they will be on a bye, but they'll have a tough matchup in Week 9 against the Colts and their offense. While we view the Eagles as a must-own unit in Fantasy, you may want to look for alternatives to get you by for the next two weeks.
News: In Week 7 on the road in Tennessee, the Eagles will be up against a Titans team that is averaging the seventh fewest yards in the NFL at 297.8 per game. However, they are also averaging the third most points in the league at 27.0 per game. They have given up an average of two sacks per game and have thrown the second fewest interceptions in the league with just three in six games.
Analysis: The Titans have their top two quarterbacks banged up as Vince Young and Kerry Collins are dealing with injuries leading into the game. It doesn't matter much who is at the helm of the passing game, however, as the Titans are clearly a run-first offense built around one of the best backs in the NFL in Chris Johnson. The Titans don't rely much on their passing game and tend to make a lot of safe, high percentage throws. That leads to a low amount of turnovers and sacks. They'll have a tough time dealing with Johnson, who has the ability to break for a long touchdown at any moment. Consider the Eagles more of a low-end No. 1 or even a No. 2 defensive unit for Week 7 based on these factors.
News: In Week 7 on the road in Tennessee, the Eagles will be up against a Titans team that is averaging the seventh fewest yards in the NFL at 297.8 per game. However, they are also averaging the third most points in the league at 27.0 per game. They have given up an average of two sacks per game and have thrown the second fewest interceptions in the league with just three in six games.
Analysis: The Titans have their top two quarterbacks banged up as Vince Young and Kerry Collins are dealing with injuries leading into the game. It doesn't matter much who is at the helm of the passing game, however, as the Titans are clearly a run-first offense built around one of the best backs in the NFL in Chris Johnson. The Titans don't rely much on their passing game and tend to make a lot of safe, high percentage throws. That leads to a low amount of turnovers and sacks. They'll have a tough time dealing with Johnson, who has the ability to break for a long touchdown at any moment. Consider the Eagles more of a low-end No. 1 or even a No. 2 defensive unit for Week 7 based on these factors.
News: The Eagles defense, which had scored the third-most Fantasy points of any defensive unit over the last three weeks, continued to perform well in Week 6, limiting the visiting Falcons to 17 points on 293 yards. The Eagles also had three sacks and forced two turnovers on an interception by Asante Samuel and a fumble recovery by Darryl Tapp.
Analysis: The Eagles DST has allowed less than 300 yards in three of its last four games and four of six games overall. It got off to a slow start this season with sloppy performances against the Packers and Lions, but since then, it has been as good as advertised. It's worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy unit when the Eagles travel to Tennessee in Week 7 to face a Titans offense that doesn't have much of a passing attack.
News: The Eagles defense, which got off to a poor start this season but has rebounded over the last three weeks, scoring the third-most Fantasy points of any unit during that stretch, will look to ride the momentum against the Falcons in Week 6. The Falcons do rank seventh in total offense, though -- including third in rushing -- so the Eagles may have their hands full. Philadelphia ranks 24th against the run, allowing 125.8 yards per game. Also, the Falcons allow only 7.6 Fantasy points to opposing defenses per game, sixth-lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: The good news is Falcons QB Matt Ryan has struggled when under heavy pressure -- which is why the Falcons accumulated only 338 yards against the Browns last week -- and the Eagles are a blitz-heavy team. Still, Ryan doesn't make many mistakes, and if he gets off to a slow start, the Falcons can just ride RB Michael Turner all day. The Eagles DST has shown improvement over the last few weeks, but it's still more of a matchups play. This matchup isn't a particularly good one.
News: The Eagles DST kept the 49ers at bay in the 27-24 win in the Week 5 matchup. The game was blown open when DL Brandon Graham sacked Alex Smith, causing him to fumble and Quintin Mikell returned it 52 yards to the end zone. The Eagles added four sacks and interceptions by Trevard Lindley and Dimitri Patterson in the victory. They also forced three San Francisco fumbles, the first fumbles the Eagles have forced all season.
Analysis: The defense carried the Eagles to victory in a close game. Forcing five turnovers and scoring a touchdown are usually means for a blowout, but the Niners stuck with it and nearly won the game. It gets no easier for the Eagles in Week 6, they host the Falcons. Atlanta sports the seventh best offense in the NFL, averaging 370.2 yards per game. Still, with the turnover-forcing potential the Eagles have shown, they should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: The Eagles DST has forced six turnovers in four games this season, but they can try and capitalize on more in Week 5 at San Francisco. The 49ers have given up the ball ten times this season, seven on interceptions thrown by QB Alex Smith (tied for most in the NFL). Their -6 turnover ratio is the second worst in the NFL; only the Ravens have a lower figure. Smith is preparing for the Eagles defense like he did in his best game, against the Saints. "They throw a lot at you, a lot of pressure, a lot of different looks," Smith said. Rookie S Nate Allen looks to add to his league-leading three interceptions against the turnover-prone 49ers.
Analysis: The Eagles shut down Donovan McNabb in Week 4, holding him to just 125 yards passing. Philadelphia now ranks 5th in the NFL against the pass, allowing just 168 yards per game. Because of this, San Francisco might lean on RB Frank Gore in Week 5 to avoid turnovers and to try and exploit the Eagles 27th-ranked run defense (allowing 138.8 yards per game). Still, consider the Eagles DST a low-end No. 1 option in Week 5.
News: The Eagles defense did a decent job in Week 4 against the Redskins, limiting Washington to just 293 yards of total offense in the 17-12 loss. LB Ernie Sims sacked QB Donovan McNabb once and S Nate Allen collected his third interception of the year in the third quarter. The Eagles held McNabb to just 125 yards passing, including just 10 yards in the second half.
Analysis: The Eagles DST has only given up 79 total points through the first four games this season and looked as dominant as ever against the Redskins on Sunday. They gave up a touchdown pass but was able to limit Washington in every other category. Philadelphia did not sack McNabb as many times as they would have liked by the quarterback avoided the rush well all game. The Eagles will face off against the 49ers in Week 5 so continue to view them as a No. 1 Fantasy DST.
News: The Eagles will face a Redskins offense in Week 4 that has a familiar face quaterbacking their team -- ex-Eagle Donovan McNabb. Philadelphia ranks seventh in the league against the pass but 23rd against the run. That matches up well as Washington averages 265.7 yards passing through the first three games but just 74.3 yards rushing. The Eagles will look to stop McNabb and the passing attack with their front seven applying the pressure and CB Asante Samuel and S Nate Allen roaming in the secondary. In two games against the Redskins last season, Philadelphia gave up a total of 41 points.
Analysis: The Eagles DST held Jacksonville to just three points last Sunday but will have a little more on their plate in Week 4. McNabb obviously knows their defense well and has a few options at receiver that can keep Philadelphia off balance. Still, the Eagles like to bring pressure from all angles and have some players in their secondary that know how to get to the ball. Philadelphia matches up fairly well against the Redskins' strengths and should be in line for another solid performance. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option for Week 4.
News: The Eagles had a dominant performance in Week 3 against the Jaguars. They only allowed three points while holding the opponent to 184 total yards in the 28-3 win. Philadelphia sacked QB David Garrard six times and put constant pressure on Jacksonville. Asante Samuel had the team's lone interception in the third quarter, but several defensive players dropped what would have been interceptions. The Eagles held Garrard to just 105 yards passing and RB Maurice Jones-Drew to 88 yards on the ground. DE Trent Cole led the way with eight tackles and two sacks in the victory.
Analysis: The Eagles DST came into Week 3 ranked 23rd in the league against both the pass and the run but shut down both in a dominant win over the Jaguars. They missed opportunities for more interceptions but did not give up many big plays while staying disciplined with few penalties. Philadelphia will face a tougher opponent in Week 4 as the Redskins come to town. Washington scored just 16 points on Sunday but have more offensive weapons than the Jaguars. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option for Week 4.
News: The Eagles knew they'd struggle on defense with six starters who are either new to the unit or playing new positions. Philadelphia just didn't figure to be last in the league in points allowed two weeks into the season. "I didn't know we were last," Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel said. "I'm not really a stat guy, at least not team stats." The Eagles have allowed 59 points -- 27 to Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers in Week 1 and then 32 to Shaun Hill and the Detroit Lions last week. In Week 3, they head to Jacksonville to take on a Jaguars team they have never beaten (0-3). The good news is middle linebacker Stewart Bradley, who missed the last game and half of the first with a concussion, is back in the lineup. "That's huge," defensive coordinator Sean McDermott said. "We have that big body back inside from a performance standpoint, but also from a leadership standpoint."
Analysis: The Eagles rank 25th in total defense, and 23rd against both the run and the pass. "I think we are a good defense," McDermott said. "We've just been inconsistent and that happens with young teams, in particular a young defense in this case. But we have to get that ironed out and that will take place over time." Getting Bradley back will be a huge plus, especially since he will be able to try and slow down Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew. The speedy back has yet to rush for 100 yards, but he has broken 100 rushing yards in three of his last four Week 3 games. Philadelphia is probably aware of that. The Jaguars turned the ball over six times in Week 2, so Philly might be playing them at a good time. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option for Week 3.
News: The Eagles have given up an average of over 29 points per game in their first two games this season but face a Jaguars offense in Week 3 that has only mustered 37 total points through the first two weeks. Jacksonville ranks 15th and 17th in the league in passing and rushing yards, while Philadelphia ranks 23rd against both respective categories. Although the Eagles are without DB Marlin Jackson and DL Ricky Sapp for the rest of the year, LB Stewart Bradley is expected to play to help slow down RB Maurice Jones-Drew. Philadelphia caused two interceptions and sacked Lions QB Shaun Hill two times in Week 2.
Analysis: The Eagles gave up a ton of points to the Lions last Week 3 but should have an easy time slowing down a Jaguars offense that is not that potent. Jacksonville turned the ball over six times in Week 2 and could be in for more of the same if Philadelphia puts the pressure on them. The Eagles DST obviously still has the talent to compete so Fantasy owners should view them as a No. 1 option heading into Week 3 against the Jaguars.
News: The Eagles allowed 15 fourth-quarter points in Week 2 against the Lions, but they managed to hold on for a 35-32 win. Philadelphia had a tough time stopping rookie RB Jahvid Best, who totaled three touchdowns, 78 rushing yards and 154 receiving yards. Philadelphia also allowed Shaun Hill to pass for 355 yards. The Lions racked up 444 yards, but Hill did throw two interceptions. The Eagles got just two sacks.
Analysis: We figured Philadelphia would bring the house in Week 2 against Hill, but they had real trouble getting to him and disrupting him in the pocket. They did win some battles, but the fact Detroit put up 30-plus points was surprising. Philadelphia is still a talented defense and can hang with the best of them. We still have faith in the Eagles as a No. 1 Fantasy DST. We say start them in Week 3 against the Jaguars -- a team that turned the ball over six times in Week 2.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Eagles didn't blitz as much as usual in their 27-20 loss to the Packers in Week 1. They sent more than four rushers after quarterback Aaron Rodgers on just 14 of 67 plays. They were able to get consistent pressure on Rodgers with their four linemen. They held Rodgers to 6.06 yards per attempts, intercepted him twice and sacked him three times. All three sacks came on first or second down on plays in which they didn't blitz. "Rodgers kills people against the blitz," said Eagles defensive coordinator Sean McDermott. "We wanted to be selective and pick our spots, yet get to him with four down (linemen) and have him hold the ball with coverage. I thought we pressure him well and kept him off-balance." Philadelphia now has to scheme for Lions QB Shaun Hill in Week 2 as he replaces the injured Matthew Stafford (shoulder).
Analysis: First-year linebacker Ernie Sims will face his former team in Week 2, but he warns his teammates not to take the Lions lightly. "I told them they're good, that they're a good ball club," Sims said. "Well-coached, eager players. And that's how I was -- an eager player. When you have eager players their effort is through the roof." While that might be the case, Detroit managed just 14 points in Week 1 against Chicago and had the second fewest total yards (168) in the NFL. We probably expect Philadelphia to go after Hill and pressure him all day. You would be wise to start the Eagles DST in Week 2.
News: Philadelphia entered Sunday's game with a goal in mind -- put pressure on Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers. They accomplished their goal, sacking Rodgers three times and picking him off twice. Rodgers picked off as the ball was popped up in the air as he was trying to hit Jermichael Finley. Philly's Joselio Hanson grabbed hit out of air and returned it 17 yards. Rookie DB Nate Allen made his first career interception, returning it 11 yards. "It was good, but it doesn't mean anything if you don't get the win," he said.
Analysis: Philadelphia will travel to Detroit in Week 2, giving them a favorable matchup. The Lions had just 168 yards of total offense in Week 1, and with Matthew Stafford's status unknown the Lions could struggle. Shaun Hill did lead the team down the field, but it's unclear how effective he will be. Philadelphia was drafted high in most leagues, so next week is a good time to start them.
News: The Eagles take on the high-powered Packers' offense in Week 1 and defensive coordinator Sean McDermott knows he'll have to put some pressure on Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers. "It's a huge challenge, but our players are ready for it, and I think they welcome that challenge," he said. "They're a great offense, and he's their leader on offense and getting to the quarterback is a necessity." Green Bay had the sixth best offense in the NFL in 2009, as they averaged 117.8 yards on the ground and 261.2 yards through the air. The Eagles gave up 27 touchdown passes and held just two of their final 12 opponents under 20 points in 2009.
Analysis: The Eagles defense will definitely have its hands full on Sunday as Rodgers and the first-team offense looked like they were in midseason form during the preseason. Rodgers threw for 470 yards, six touchdowns and no interceptions. With some new additions to the defensive unit -- Ernie Sims, Brandon Graham and Nate Allen -- the Eagles will try to put some pressure on Rodgers and contain RB Ryan Grant. While Fantasy owners drafted Philadelphia's DST high, only 74 percent are starting them in Week 1. They are a low-end No. 1 DST going up against the Packers.
News:The Sports Xchange reports somebody asked Eagles defensive coordinator Sean McDermott the other day whether his defense has looked better this summer than it did last year. "At which point last year?" McDermott asked with a laugh. "You know, there's a number of new faces, and it's one thing to look good in preseason, and it's another to look good throughout each and every week of a 16-game schedule. So we still have a lot of work to do. And the players know that more than anybody." Beset by injuries and the departure of seven-time Pro Bowl free safety Brian Dawkins, McDermott's unit struggled last season, giving up 27 touchdown passes and holding just two of their final 12 opponents to less than 20 points. But head coach Andy Reid and general manager Howie Roseman made some key offseason additions, trading for linebacker Ernie Sims and drafting defensive end Brandon Graham (first round) and safety Nate Allen (second). Those additions, along with the return-to-health of middle linebacker Stewart Bradley and the opportunity by McDermott to have a full offseason to put his stamp on the defense (he replaced the late Jim Johnson a week before the start of training camp last year) has made a huge difference.
Analysis: The first-team defense has looked good in training camp and in the preseason, though, as McDermott pointed out, it's one thing to look good now, and another to look good in November, December and January. With Akeem Jordan moving from weak side linebacker to the strong side and Sims playing the WILL, the Eagles open the season with one of the league's faster linebacker units, which McDermott hopes will improve their pass defense, particularly against opposing tight ends, who caught 100 passes against the Eagles in '09. "I like the toughness in the group there with those three," McDermott said. "And they look like they're building that chemistry from being out on the field together, which is important." Fantasy owners have made the Eagles DST the fourth most drafted defense in CBSSports.com leagues, so clearly they are not worried about all the new faces on Philly's defense. Continue to draft the Eagles DST as a No. 1 option.
News: For the first time in three preseason contests, the Eagles managed to hold their opponent under 20 points during a 20-17 win against the Chiefs on Saturday. The first-team defense was especially efficient, holding Kansas City to one touchdown in the first half. The Eagles defense has allowed 319 yards per game and 22 points per game in the preseason.
Analysis: Luckily, these preseason contests don't count toward Fantasy stats. Although, the preseason numbers aren't too far off from the 2009 regular season numbers for Philadelphia. The Eagles DST really helped Fantasy owners last season by scoring special teams touchdowns, forcing turnovers and getting sacks. We expect much of the same in 2010 since Jim Johnson protege Sean McDermott loves to blitz. Fantasy owners have made the Eagles DST the fourth most drafted defense in CBSSports.com leagues. They are a solid No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Eagles DB Marlin Jackson suffered a ruptured Achilles' tendon in his right foot Tuesday, ending his season. This is Jackson's third major injury in three years -- he tore his right ACL in 2008 and his left ACL in 2009. Jackson was battling for a nickelback or safety role with the team after spending his entire career with the Colts.
Analysis: Expect Macho Harris or Quintin Demps to fill in as a reserve jack-of-all-trades for the Eagles' secondary. The loss of Jackson hurts their depth but doesn't impact their overall talent level -- keep the Eagles as a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick.
News: The Sports Xchange reports that after giving up 27 touchdown passes and finishing 17th in the league in pass defense last season, the Eagles made defense the focus of this draft. Their first five picks and nine of their 13 overall selections were defensive players. They were able to land one of the draft's top pass-rushers by trading up 11 spots in the first round for DE Brandon Graham. They plugged what was a gaping hole at free safety last year with the second-round acquisition of Nate Allen. What they also needed to address was the cornerback position after trading away Sheldon Brown earlier this month, and they didn't really do that. Just one of their 13 picks is a corner -- fourth-rounder Trevard Lindley of Kentucky. But he doesn't bring the physicality to the position that the Eagles need on the opposite side from Asante Samuel. Right now, the Eagles' other starting corner is Ellis Hobbs, who is coming off a career-threatening neck injury. The Eagles continued to add speed to the linebacker position, selecting Keenan Clayton, Ricky Sapp and Jamar Chaney.
Analysis: The Eagles DST also got LB Ernie Sims in a trade with Detroit this offseason, and this unit should be solid in 2010. We like the Eagles DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues, and they are worth a mid- to late-round pick this year.
News: Looking to bolster their pass rush, the Eagles traded up to select Michigan defensive end Brandon Graham with the 13th pick in Thursday's NFL draft. Graham is a disruptive force with nice speed off the edge, good instincts and athleticism. Graham finished his four-year college career with 56 tackles for a loss and eight forced fumbles. He volunteered to play on special teams as a senior and blocked two punts and recovered one for a touchdown. Reid compared him to former Eagle Hugh Douglas, a three-time Pro Bowl pick who had 80 career sacks in 10 seasons. "He looks a little bit like Hugh Douglas," Reid said. "He kind of plays like Hugh Douglas. He is a relentless, relentless player. He's done it at the high school level, the college level, he did it in the All-Star game and he did it against great competition."
Analysis: The Eagles needed to improve their pass rush, even though they had 44 sacks last season. Much of their pressure usually came from the blitz, and the front four often gave quarterbacks too much time to sit in the pocket and pick apart the secondary. We expect Graham to see a fair amount of playing time, especially on passing downs. This only bolsters the Eagles DST as a Top-5 unit in Fantasy. Expect them to go off the boards beginning in Round 12 or 13 in most drafts this summer.
News: The Eagles acquired LB Ernie Sims in a three-way deal with Detroit and Denver on Monday. Philadelphia dealt a fifth-round pick to the Broncos, who are sending tight end Tony Scheffler and a seventh-round pick to the Lions. Sims has played all over the field in his career and is expected to compete for an outside linebacker position in camp. "I'll tell you what, you just love watching him play," GM Howie Roseman said. "He just plays so fast and physical; he throws his body around. I think the fans of Philadelphia are going to love Ernie Sims."
Analysis: This addition only makes the Eagles' defense stronger. This is a unit to get excited about thanks to their plentiful front seven and moderately talented secondary. Throw in DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin on special teams and there's a lot to like here. Consider the Eagles DST worthy of a late-round pick in drafts.
News: The Eagles acquired LB Ernie Sims in a three-way deal with Detroit and Denver on Monday. Philadelphia dealt a fifth-round pick to the Broncos, who are sending tight end Tony Scheffler and a seventh-round pick to the Lions. Sims has played all over the field in his career and is expected to compete for an outside linebacker position in camp. "I'll tell you what, you just love watching him play," GM Howie Roseman said. "He just plays so fast and physical; he throws his body around. I think the fans of Philadelphia are going to love Ernie Sims."
Analysis: Sims used to be a Fantasy mainstay, but injuries and scheme changes in Detroit toyed with his Fantasy value. Playing outside in Philadelphia won't yield much in the way of stats, so keep him limited to the late rounds (or even waiver wire) in IDP league play.
News: The Browns acquired cornerback Sheldon Brown and linebacker Chris Gocong in a trade with the Eagles for linebacker Alex Hall and fourth- and fifth-round selections in the 2010 NFL Draft.
Analysis: Brown, who has restructured his contract after arriving in Cleveland, will likely move into Cleveland's starting lineup. Gocong is expected to compete for an outside linebacker job and could emerge as a pass rusher for the Browns. Hall is more of a project-type player for the Eagles to develop. Naturally, this improves the talent level of the Browns DST more than the Eagles, but we still see the Eagles DST as the much better Fantasy option, well worth a late-round pick. The Browns defense still have some needs to fill before they become more than a one-week replacement option thanks to their kick-return game.
News: Looking to bolster their pass rush, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired defensive end Darryl Tapp from Seattle for defensive end Chris Clemons and the Eagles' fourth-round choice in next month's draft. Originally a second-round draft pick by Seattle in 2006, Tapp has 18 sacks, two interceptions, eight forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries in 65 games. Clemons played two seasons with Philadelphia after posting a career-high eight sacks in 2007, his only season with Oakland. He has 20 sacks in 59 career games.
Analysis: This should definitely help both the Eagles' pass rush and run defense as Tapp is a versatile end who can do it all. The Eagles are still an attractive No. 1 Fantasy DST well worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles and free agent defensive back Marlin Jackson have agreed to a two-year contract. Jackson is coming off back-to-back season-ending knee injuries: He missed the second half of 2008 with a torn ACL in his right knee and returned in 2009 before tearing the ACL in his left knee in a November practice. Jackson has 306 tackles and four interceptions in 56 career games with the Colts. The 6-foot, 196-pound Jackson can play cornerback and safety, and it is believed he will play free safety for the Eagles. "I played free safety my junior year in college and I then played eight games at free safety in my second year in the league," Jackson explained. "I'm very comfortable with it. ... [T]hat aspect of the game, the physicality, is nothing new to me. Being inside the box and having to be physical within there, I'm used to those things."
Analysis: This is an interesting move for Jackson, and an interesting move for the Eagles. If anything, Jackson affords them depth as well as more time to get second-year safety Macho Harris up to speed. We like the move and continue to view the Eagles DST as a No. 1 unit worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: For an entire year, the Dallas Cowboys have had to deal with the fallout from a crushing, season-ending loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Now it is the Eagles' turn. Tony Romo threw a pair of early touchdown passes and the defense took over from there, carrying Dallas to a 24-0 victory over Philadelphia in Week 17. The Eagles defense saw Romo go 24 of 34 for 311 yards; he went over 300 in both meetings against Philadelphia. Dallas rolled up 474 yards. The Eagles got one turnover and two sacks.
Analysis: What a sad ending to the regular season for the Eagles defense. Not only did they let Dallas rough them up in the finale, but Philly gave up 20 or more points in seven of their last nine games. They really missed the presence of defensive coordinator Jim Johnson, who passed away in the offseason. The Eagles DST was boosted in Fantasy, however, because they still got a lot of sacks and because of DeSean Jackson in the return game. Based on reputation, the Eagles DST is probably going to be drafted as a No. 1 Fantasy option in 2010.
News: The Eagles barely survived a second-half rally from the Broncos, but they did just enough to escape with a 30-27 win in Week 16. Philadelphia jumped out to a 20-7 halftime lead before Denver rallied to tie the game at 27 with 6:05 left. Philadelphia won the game as David Akers kicked a 28-yard field goal with 4 seconds remaining. The Eagles allowed only 241 yards, including 70 on the ground. Philadelphia had three sacks and one interception.
Analysis: The Eagles defense have been up-and-down all season, but they have had a lot more good performances than bad ones. They still blitz a lot, create turnovers and score on special teams. The Eagles finish the season in Week 17 against the Cowboys. They could be playing for a better playoff position depending on what happens Monday night with the Vikings, so consider starting the Eagles DST.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles were able to stop Alex Smith and the 49ers cold on Sunday of Week 15 as they earned a playoff berth in the process. The Eagles DST limited the Niners to just 261 yards of offense in the 27-13 win. The Eagles DST forced a special teams turnover and added three more on interceptions. They also managed to sack Smith three times in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles DST was able to limit the Niners' yardage and also force four turnovers with three sacks in the game. The Eagles DST continues to play at a high level and should be considered a No. 1 option in all leagues. Keep the Eagles DST active in Week 16 against Denver.
News: The Eagles DST had two touchdowns Sunday at the Giants and played a solid all-around game. The Eagles scored on a 72-yard punt return from DeSean Jackson and a 60-yard fumble return from Sheldon Brown. The Eagles also had 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. Jackson had two punt returns for 83 yards, Macho Harris had five kickoff returns for 110 yards and Quintin Demps had one kickoff return for 30 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST continues to play at a high level and should be considered a No. 1 option in all leagues. Keep the Eagles DST active in Week 15 against San Francisco.
News: The Eagles DST was impressive Sunday at the Falcons with a defensive touchdown, two interceptions, one fumble recovery, one forced fumble and two sacks. The Eagles took advantage of Chris Redman starting for the injured Matt Ryan (toe) at quarterback for the Falcons with Sheldon Brown returning an interception 83 yards for a touchdown. Jeremy Maclin also had three punt returns for 33.9 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST should continue to play well in Week 14 at the Giants. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option in all leagues.
News: Philadelphia scored the final 11 points on Sunday at home against the Redskins to come from behind and win the game, 27-24, in Week 12. The Eagles DST limited the Redskins to 303 yards of offense and forced two turnovers, both coming on Jason Campbell interceptions in the first half. The Eagles DST sacked Campbell just once in the game, however.
Analysis: The Eagles DST didn't do all that much to make Fantasy owners happy. They had the turnovers but didn't really stop one of the league's worst offenses. Philly plays at Atlanta in Week 13 and the Falcons could be without RB Michael Turner and QB Matt Ryan for that game. If that is the case, Philly should be a solid Fantasy play in any DST format.
News: The Eagles DST didn't do much Sunday at Chicago in a 24-20 victory. They had one sack from DE Trent Cole and one interception from Sean Jones. DeSean Jackson had two punt returns for 56 yards, and Macho Harris had five kickoff returns for 126 yards. The Eagles also lost CB Asante Samuel (stinger) during the game.
Analysis: Samuel should be able to play in Week 12 against Washington. The Eagles DST is a great option against the Redskins, and consider them a No. 1 option in Week 12.
News: For the second consecutive week, the Eagles will go with a different look at linebacker because of a knee injury to weakside starter Akeem Jordan. Coach Andy Reid ruled out Jordan for Sunday night's game at Chicago. Will Witherspoon will again start at weakside LB, and second-year man Joe Mays will start in the middle. Chris Gocong, who started in the middle in last week's loss to San Diego, will move back to his customary spot on the strong side. Rookie Moise Fokou, who started the past two games on the strong side, appears to be the odd man out. Additionally, CB Sheldon Brown is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury he suffered in San Diego. The veteran did limited work Thursday and Friday in practice. Reid said it will be a game-time decision as his secondary already deals with depth issues.
Analysis: The Eagles DST should pick up a couple of interceptions off Jay Cutler on Sunday and sack him a few times. They'll give up their fair share of yards, too, but they're good enough to consider a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option in spite of their injuries at linebacker and cornerback.
News: The Eagles defense struggled on Sunday, allowing 31 points to the Chargers in a Week 10 loss. The Eagles were able to sack QB Philip Rivers twice in the game and failed to intercept one of his passes as he threw for 231 yards and two touchdowns. On the ground, the Chargers gained 119 yards on 28 attempts with two touchdowns.
Analysis: This was certainly one of the Eagles defense’s lesser performances of the season. The only performance that was worse was back in Week 2 against the Saints when they allowed 48 points. The Eagles take on a Bears offense that has been sputtering of late, so continue to view the unit as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: The NFL has suspended Eagles cornerback Joselio Hanson four games for violating the league's ban on performance enhancing substances, and the Eagles placed CB Ellis Hobbs on injured reserve with a spine injury suffered last week. To fill their spots, the Eagles signed CBs Ramzee Robinson and Jack Ikegwuonu, who was on their practice squad, and added CB Stoney Woodson to the practice squad.
Analysis: If the Eagles lose CBs Asante Samuel or Sheldon Brown, they're going to be in a lot of trouble. They're already a lukewarm choice for Week 10 when they take on the Chargers. Consider other options before rolling with the Eagles' whose secondary will certainly be tested on Sunday.
News: The Eagles DST had four sacks and an interception Sunday against Dallas. Sean Jones, Trent Cole, Juqua Parker and Jason Babin had the sacks, and Sheldon Brown had the interception. Ellis Hobbs had three kickoff returns for 54 yards, and DeSean Jackson had one punt return for 9 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST continues to be a No. 1 unit. Keep them active in all leagues for Week 10 at San Diego.
News: The Eagles held the Giants to 17 points and 356 yards of total offense in Week 8. They forced three turnovers and had two sacks in the game. The Eagles have held opponents to 17 points or under in all but one game this season.
Analysis: The only team that scored more than 22 points against the Eagles was the Saints in Week 2 -- the top offensive team in the NFL thus far. The Eagles continue to put a ton of pressure on opposing quarterbacks and have been a very reliable defensive unit in Fantasy. They'll face a strong offense in Week 9 against Dallas, but should still be viewed as a good play.
News: Philadelphia didn't so much dominate Washington on Monday night as the Redskins beat themselves again and again and again. Still, the Eagles DST did a nice job in the 27-17 win as they limited the 'Skins to 308 yards and most of that came on the last series of plays. The Eagles sacked quarterback Jason Campbell six times, including two by Trent Cole, and forced three Washington fumbles and an interception. The biggest play for the Eagles DST came on a Will Witherspoon, who was making his debut with the team, interception return for a touchdown in the 1st quarter. Witherspoon added a sack and a forced fumble in the game.
Analysis: Dominating Washington's offense isn't very hard to do so we can't five the Eagles too much credit. Let's see how they do Week 8 at home against the Giants. Philadelphia has faced some lesser competition this season and has emerged as a top Fantasy DST option. If you've stuck with them this far, go ahead and use them Week 8. Otherwise, there are plenty of other viable options to go around.
News: Eagles coach Andy Reid says LB Omar Gaither will have surgery on left foot and will miss the rest of the season. Gaither suffered the injury during Sunday's loss to the Oakland Raiders. He is the second Eagles middle linebacker to be lost for the season - Stewart Bradley was placed on injured reserve after tearing an ACL in a preseason scrimmage. On Tuesday, the Eagles acquired LB Will Witherspoon from the St. Louis Rams. Witherspoon will start for the Eagles against Washington on Monday night.
Analysis: It's safe to release Gaither in all leagues, and he has minimal Fantasy value in IDP formats when healthy. The Eagles DST still remains a No. 1 option in Week 7 against the Redskins.
News: The Eagles have traded rookie WR Brandon Gibson and a fifth-round pick to the Rams for LB Will Witherspoon. Witherspoon is expected to start immediately for the Eagles, possibly in the middle of the defense. He left the team's Week 6 game against the Jaguars with a hip/back injury but it's been deemed just a bruise.
Analysis: Witherspoon should help the Eagles run defense so long as he stays healthy. The Eagles DST is a solid option for Week 7 when they play at the Redskins, who have had a hard time moving the football this season.
News: The Eagles had a solid defensive performance Week 6 at Oakland, but not the dominant defensive performance many people expected. They allowed 13 points and 325 yards, recording two sacks and two interceptions.
Analysis: The Eagles DST has gotten a chance to beat up on some poor offenses this season, emerging as one of the top units in Fantasy. The Eagles have another cupcake matchup Week 7 at Washington, so keep the Eagles DST active.
News: The Eagles DST held the Buccaneers to 14 points and 303 yards in a Week 5 victory. Philly forced three interceptions, recorded a hat trick of sacks along with a forced fumble, and picked up a late safety.
Analysis: The Eagles have beat up three mediocre teams this season (Carolina, Kansas City and Tampa Bay), but got exposed by the Saints in Week 2. In Week 6, the Eagles will face another useless team in the form of the Raiders, so they remain a must-start in all formats.
News: Jeremiah Trotter is back with the Philadelphia Eagles after a year away from the NFL. The four-time Pro Bowl linebacker signed with the team Tuesday. A 10-year veteran, Trotter, 32, last played with Tampa Bay in December 2007. He has credited knee surgery last year with making him feel he could return to the field. "Jeremiah Trotter has always been one of my favorite players," coach Andy Reid said. "He has worked very hard to keep himself in shape and we are pleased with where he is physically. We are excited to give him an opportunity to contribute to our football team."
Analysis: Exactly what role Trotter will play is unclear. Starting middle linebacker Stewart Bradley is on injured reserve after tearing a knee ligament in training camp. Omar Gaither has started the first three games this season in his place. The Eagles are on bye in Week 4.
News: The Eagles DST held the Chiefs to 14 points and 196 yards in a Week 3 win over Kansas City. Philly forced just one turnover, a fumble, but did make three sacks.
Analysis: The Eagles did a great job of stuffing Larry Johnson and didn't have to worry about Dwayne Bowe on Sunday, which certainly helped quite a bit. The Eagles are usually a must-start DST, but have a bye week in Week 4, so you'll have to look elsewhere.
News: The Eagles allowed 48 points in Week 2 and 421 net yards of offense in Week 2 vs. New Orleans. They forced just one turnover and got one sack in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles were facing one of the toughest matchups they will face this season against a very potent Saints offense. That said, even this performance was unexpected. The Eagles are an aggressive defense that likes to get after the quarterback, but Drew Brees left the game with a fairly clean jersey. Expect the Eagles defense to get back on track for Week 3 against a weaker Chiefs offense. They remain a recommended play.
News: The Eagles defense was very instrumental in a 38-10 rout of the Panthers in Week 1. They pressured QB Jake Delhomme all day and forced him into many mistakes that eventually led to his exit from the game. The Panthers could muster up just 169 yards, 83 passing, while Philadelphia forced seven turnovers (five interceptions. Sheldon Brown had two of the interceptions and Akeem Jordan and Asante Samuel each had one on consecutive Delhomme throws in the third quarter. Joselio Hanson had the other pick of Matt Moore. The Eagles also came up with five sacks, a fumble return for a score and 85-yard punt return for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Eagles DST might have had one of the finest days in Fantasy history for a defensive unit against the Panthers. They had numbers of what you might find in a video game. They were flat out insane and made their fallen defensive coordinator -- Jim Johnson -- very proud. It seems the Eagles still have their swagger despite Johnson's absence. They are usually a must-start Fantasy option, but you might consider benching them in Week 2 against the Saints since New Orleans has a pretty good offense.
News: The Eagles defense and special teams unit is off to a fast start in 2009. In the first half of their Week 1 contest against the Panthers, the defense scored via a 2-yard fumble recovery by Victor Abiamiri and the special teams got into the mix thanks to a 85-yard punt return for a score by DeSean Jackson.
Analysis: The Eagles are definitely motivated to have a big season as top contenders in the NFC East, but also in memory of their fallen defensive coordinator Jim Johnson, who passed away in the offseason. It seems the Eagles still have their swagger despite Johnson's absence.
News: Eagles middle linebacker Stewart Bradley injured his knee and cornerback Ellis Hobbs left with a stinger during practice Sunday night. Both players will have MRI tests on Monday. Bradley left the field on his own after getting hurt about halfway through the session. The extent of his injury wasn't immediately known, though trainers appeared concerned. Bradley had 151 tackles in his first full season as a starter last year. He's the primary signal caller on a defense that already lost veteran safety Brian Dawkins in free agency. Hobbs, acquired in a trade with New England, is competing for a starting job with Sheldon Brown.
Analysis: If the Bradley injury is serious, the already-iffy Eagles linebacker corps takes a huge hit. Hobbs is also expected to fill a role on defense and special teams. We'll keep our eyes on this as the loss of Bradley would significantly hinder their run defense while Hobbs' absence might impact both facets of the defense and special teams. For now, continue to view the Eagles as a No. 1 DST, which will be the case even if both guys are lost for a long period of time.
News: The Eagles placed CB Asante Samuel (hamstring), DT Trevor Laws (hamstring) and DB Victor Abiamiri (pectoral sprain) on the physically unable to perform list on Friday. All three can come back to practice at any time until the start of the regular season, but if any one of them is not cleared before then, they'll be ineligible for the first six weeks of the year.
Analysis: Abiamiri and Laws provide adequate depth while Samuel is one of the premier cornerbacks in the league. Of the three, only Abiamiri is a candidate to sit on the PUP list for the first six weeks of the season. The better news is that the rest of the Eagles defense is healthy. They'll be playing with heavy hearts this year following the death of defensive coordinator Jim Johnson, but there's no question that the talent on the Eagles DST is there, particularly in the defensive backfield. They remain a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick.
News: Jim Johnson, whose attacking defenses helped the Eagles to one Super Bowl appearance and five NFC title games, has died. He was 68. Johnson had taken a leave of absence from the team in May as he continued to battle a cancerous tumor on his spine. The Eagles announced his death on Tuesday afternoon. A veteran of 22 years as an NFL assistant, Johnson is regarded as one of the top defensive minds in the league, known for building units able to pressure the quarterback from every angle. His defenses consistently ranked among the best in the league, including last season, when the Eagles finished third in total defense and fell one victory short of the Super Bowl.
Analysis: Earlier this week, the team announced that Sean McDermott would replace Johnson, who had been Andy Reid's only defensive coordinator in his 10 seasons as Eagles head coach. In his first press conference as coordinator, McDermott paid tribute to Johnson. "What haven't I learned from Jim?" McDermott said. "I don't think it would be fair to Jim, in this setting, to try and limit in one statement, one press conference, the effect that Jim has had on my life." McDermott paid Johnson the ultimate compliment in describing the style of defense he wanted the Eagles to play: Johnson's style. Johnson is known for his aggressive, attacking style and has played a significant role in the team's success over the last decade. Last season, Philadelphia finished third in total defense and fourth in points allowed as the Eagles advanced to the NFC title game for the fifth time in the last 10 seasons. McDermott should be up for the job, the defense should be motivated to do well in Johnson's honor., and there's no question that the talent on the Eagles DST is there, particularly in the defensive backfield. They remain a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick.
News: Sean McDermott has replaced Jim Johnson as the Eagles defensive coordinator, two days before the team opens training camp. The 68-year-old Johnson took an indefinite leave of absence in May to continue treatment for a cancerous tumor on his spine. It's uncertain whether he'll return to the team in any capacity. McDermott, 35, ran the defense in Johnson's absence after serving as secondary coach last year. McDermott originally joined the Eagles in 1998 as a scouting administrative coordinator, and has served in various roles as an assistant on the defensive staff.
Analysis: Johnson is known for his aggressive, attacking style and has played a significant role in the team's success over the last decade. Last season, Philadelphia finished third in total defense and fourth in points allowed as the Eagles advanced to the NFC title game for the fifth time in the last 10 seasons. McDermott should be up for the job, the defense should be motivated to do well in Johnson's honor., and there's no question that the talent on the Eagles DST is there, particularly in the defensive backfield. They remain a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick.
News: Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson has taken an indefinite leave of absence while he continues treatment for a cancerous tumor on his spine. Johnson had recovered sufficiently to coach during the team's first post-draft minicamp earlier this month. But he coached from a motorized scooter during practices and said wasn't sure if he could return to the field for the upcoming season. Secondary coach Sean McDermott will run the defense in Johnson's absence. "He's struggling," Reid said Monday. "But he's a tough guy and a true battler."
Analysis: Johnson is known for his aggressive, attacking style and has played a significant role in the team's success over the last decade. Last season, Philadelphia finished third in total defense and fourth in points allowed as the Eagles advanced to the NFC title game for the fifth time in the last 10 seasons. Johnson's near-reckless play calling might be tough for McDermott to duplicate, but there's no question that the talent on the Eagles DST is there, particularly in the defensive backfield. They remain a No. 1 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick. Our thoughts and prayers are with Johnson during this tough time.
News: The New England Patriots have traded veteran CB Ellis Hobbs to the Philadelphia Eagles for two draft picks. Hobbs, who started for the Patriots last season, will rejoin former teammate Assante Samuel in the Philadelphia secondary. New England receives a pair of fifth-round picks in Sunday's NFL draft, the 137th and 141st overall picks.
Analysis: Hobbs will remain a No. 3 DB with the Eagles, who went after Hobbs to replace the departed Lito Sheppard. Hobbs will compete with Sheldon Brown and could start opposite Samuel. This makes the Eagles DST that much better, and they should remain a No. 1 unit this year.
News: Defense carried the Eagles to the NFC championship game. It let them down once they got there. Costly breakdowns helped send the Eagles to a 32-25 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday afternoon, Philadelphia's fourth defeat in five conference title games since 2002. A unit that limited the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants to a total of 25 points in two postseason victories gave up 24 in the first half. "This one hurts," strong safety Quintin Mikell said in the Eagles' tomblike locker room. "You can't spot them 24 points."
Analysis: The Eagles' defense, ranked third in the NFL during the regular season, showed flashes of its old form in the second half. Larry Fitzgerald went wild on the Eagles secondary for three touchdowns and 152 yards on nine catches. Despite a tough finish to the season, the Eagles DST should once again be a top unit in 2009.
News: Philadelphia took it to the Giants at New York on Sunday afternoon and advanced to the NFC title game 23-11. The Eagles DST bended but never broke against the top seed in the NFC and the defending Super Bowl champs as they allowed 307 yards in the game. The Eagles forced three turnovers as QB Eli Manning threw two picks with no touchdowns. Eagles safety Quintin Mikell picked Manning off with 3:15 left in the game to ice it. Earlier in the game, Asante Samuel picked another pass and took it deep into Giants territory narrowly missing a defensive touchdown. There were no sacks recorded by the Eagles, however.
Analysis: The Eagles DST recaptured its status as a top Fantasy unit in 2008, recording sacks in bunches and shutting down opposing offenses time and time again. If you have it a Fantasy playoff league, you have an opportunity to use it again. Keep it active for the NFC Championship game against the Cardinals in Arizona. They should once again prove to be a top unit in 2009 as well.
News: In Sunday's playoff game at Minnesota, the Eagles held the hosting Vikings to 14 points on 301 yards. They scored a defensive touchdown on a 44-yard interception return by Asante Samuel and also recorded a sack and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Eagles DST recaptured its status as a top Fantasy unit in 2008, recording sacks in bunches and shutting down opposing offenses time and time again. If you have it a Fantasy playoff league, you have an opportunity to use it again. Keep it active for next weekend's game at the Giants.
News: Eagles Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel was held out of practice with a hip injury Friday and is listed as questionable for the divisional playoff game against Minnesota Sunday. Samuel strained his hip in Thursday's practice. Coach Andy Reid said Friday he thinks Samuel is going to be OK.
Analysis: Samuel made the Pro Bowl in his first season with the Eagles. He is tied for the NFL's career lead for playoff interceptions returned for a touchdown with three. Samuel is a key part of the Eagles' secondary and his loss would be huge if he can't suit up Sunday. Samuel is a viable Fantasy DB in playoff formats, so stay tuned to inactives. The Eagles DST is obviously one of the better options in playoff formats as well since coordinator Jim Johnson is defensive genius.
News: The Eagles defense came up big Week 17 against the Cowboys, holding one of the NFL's top offenses to two field goals as Philadelphia crept into the playoffs as a wild card team with 44-6 win. Philadelphia pressured quarterback Tony Romo all day, limiting him to 183 passing yards and no touchdowns. The Eagles forced five turnovers (four fumbles) and scored twice defensively -- 73-yard fumble return by Chris Clemons and a 96-yard fumble return by Joselio Hanson. Philadelphia came away with four sacks.
Analysis: Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson continues to cook up some of the best defensive schemes in the NFL, and no matter who he has on the field, he always puts pressure on the opposition. As long as Johnson, who could be a top head-coaching candidate in the offseason, remains with Philadelphia, the Eagles DST will likely be a viable No. 1 Fantasy option in 2009.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins grounded out a highly defensive effort in Week 16. Philadelphia ultimately lost the game, 10-3, as they allowed Washington to rack up just 249 yards of offense. The Eagles DST did not force a turnover in the game, however, and only got to QB Jason Campbell three times. Trent Cole, Victor Abiamiri and Darren Howard got the sacks.
Analysis: Philly was stingy with the yards and points in Week 16 but did little else that Fantasy DST owners can get excited about. Because Philadelphia needs a win in Week 17 against Dallas in the worst way, we expect them to come out firing and the DST could be a decent option. Still, Dallas needs to come out firing as well and this one could be a high-scoring affair. The score was 41-37 Dallas in Week 2 at Dallas so keep that in mind before you start the Eagles DST.
News: The Eagles defense allowed 10 points on 196 yards to the visiting Browns in Week 15. It recorded two sacks and two interceptions, returning one for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Eagles DST hasn't gotten its usual sacks in recent weeks, but it remains a dominant Fantasy unit with a decent matchup Week 16 at Washington. It did give up 23 points and 388 yards to the Redskins earlier this season, but that team has cooled off since then.
News: For the second straight game, the Eagles defense failed to record a sack Week 14 at the Giants. It did block a kick, though, and had a decent performance overall, allowing 14 points on 211 yards.
Analysis: Going into last week, you figured you could always count on the Eagles DST for a few sacks. Not so much anymore. Still, it clearly has shutdown ability and should probably get back on board with the sacks Week 15 against the Browns. Keep it active.
News: The Eagles defense limited the mighty Cardinals offense to 20 points on only 260 yards Week 13 at Philadelphia. It didn't record a single sack, but it had three interceptions and a recovered fumble.
Analysis: Funny -- you'd expect the Eagles DST to finish with more sacks than interceptions. In any case, it only validated its place as a No. 1 Fantasy DST and should remain active even with a somewhat difficult matchup Week 14 at the Giants.
News: The Eagles have listed CB Asante Samuel as doubtful for Week 13 vs. Arizona with a neck injury. He did not practice all week. He is the only Eagle defender listed as questionable or worse for Thursday. Lito Sheppard will likely start in his place.
Analysis: Awful timing for Samuel as the Eagles host the pass-happy Cardinals in Week 13. You may want to consider other DST options heading into Thursday's games since the Eagles are prime to give up a bunch of passing yards and points, even with Sheppard stepping in for Samuel.
News: The Eagles defense, coming off an eight-sack performance against the Bengals, had three sacks Week 12 at Baltimore. Unfortunately, it allowed 36 points on 248 yards. It did, though, get a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Quintin Demps.
Analysis: The touchdown return salvaged an otherwise disappointing return from the Eagles DST, which actually played pretty well, the Ravens defense contributing to most of the team's points. The Eagles DST remains one of the best units in Fantasy, especially in leagues that heavily reward sacks. Keep it active for Week 13 against the Cardinals on Thursday.
News: Philadelphia and Cincinnati played to a 13-all tie in Week 11 after a scoreless overtime period. The Eagles DST played well in limiting the Bengals to 13 points and also limited Cincy to 282 total yards. Philly, however, only forced one turnover in the game and that came on a lost fumble. The Eagles shined by sacking QB Ryan Fitzpatrick eight times. Trent Cole had two sacks, Darren Howard had two and Sheldon Brown, Brodrick Bunkley, Joselio Hanson and Chris Clemons each had one.
Analysis: The Eagles defense has re-established themselves as one of the most feared units in the NFL, and despite the absence of turnovers at times, they still manage to get after quarterbacks and stop offenses. The Eagles DST remains a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 12 at Baltimore.
News: In the Eagles' 36-31 loss vs. the Giants in Week 10, the DST didn't contribute much. Trent Cole notched the only sack in the game, DT Mike Patterson came up with an interception, and three Eagles defenders had a forced fumble (one recovered).
Analysis: This might have been an off week for the Eagles DST, but consider the unit a must-start in Week 11 when they play at the Bengals. Cincinnati is weakish running the ball which plays into the hands of the Eagles and their strong secondary.
News: Despite allowing a 90-yard touchdown reception to Koren Robinson less than two minutes into the game Week 9, the Eagles defense then clammped down on QB Seneca Wallace and the rest of the Seahawks' ooffense in a 26-7 win. Seattle managed just 233 yards, including 86 on the ground. Wallace was sacked four times, but surprisingly Seattle never turned the ball over.
Analysis: The Eagles defense has re-established themselves as one of the most feared units in the NFL, and despite the absence of turnovers at times, they still manage to get after quarterbacks and stop offenses. The Eagles DST remains a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 10. Philadelphia hosts the N.Y. Giants.
News: The Eagles defense allowed 335 yards to the visiting Falcons in Week 8, but it gave up only 14 points. It also recorded two sacks and one interception and recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Eagles DST racks up sacks more consistently than most defensive units and is usually worth starting for that reason alone. It has a great matchup Week 9 at Seattle, so keep it active.
News: The Eagles will host the Falcons in Week 8 in a matchup that looked great for the DST earlier in the year, but not so much now. Stunningly, the Falcons rank ninth in total offense with 350.0 yards per game on average with seven rush touchdowns and five passing touchdowns. They are clearly a running team thanks to RB Michael Turner, but rookie QB Matt Ryan and WR Roddy White have hooked up quite a bit through the air to become a formidable duo. The Eagles boast a deep and talented secondary that should be able to corral White -- they haven't allowed a 100-yard receiver all season -- but will have trouble with Turner. The Eagles have allowed back-to-back 100-yard rushers in consecutive games. Their only saving grace is that they're coming off of a bye and are usually strong after a bye week.
Analysis: Figure the Eagles DST to be no worse than a low-end starting option in Fantasy play this week. Consider other options available to you before finalizing your lineup.
News: Philadelphia beat the 49ers, 40-26, in Week 6 and the Eagles DST allowed the 49ers 306 total yards of offense. The Eagles forced three turnovers and the last one, an interception from Juqua Parker, was brought back 55 yards for a touchdown for the final score. The Eagles also sacked QB J.T. O'Sullivan three times.
Analysis: The Eagles are a top-notch Fantasy DST unit but they should not be starting for your Fantasy team in Week 7. The Eagles have a bye.
News: The Eagles dropped a home game to NFC East rival Washington on Sunday of Week 5 by the score of 23-17. Philadelphia's DeSean Jackson returned a punt 68 yards for a touchdown to make the score 14-0 early, but the Eagles DST could not hold the Redskins down. Washington racked up 388 total yards of offense. Philly, which hurried Washington QB Jason Campbell a lot, could only muster one sack and did not force a single turnover.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is averaging 4.25 sacks, an interception and 1.5 forced fumbles per game this season. They are a top-notch unit who had a bad week against the Redskins. Philly heads to San Francisco in Week 6 and against the 49ers should once again be considered a unit worthy of starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Even though the Eagles lost Week 4 at Chicago, their defense had a decent statistical performance. The team recorded four sacks, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. It gave up 24 points to the Bears, but on only 256 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST recorded nine sacks in its last game, and it didn't have a disappointing follow-up performance against the Bears. Consider it a No. 1 Fantasy unit, but it has a tough matchup Week 5 against the Redskins.
News:Brian Westbrook limped off the field in the first half. Donovan McNabb missed part of the third quarter. With their best player sidelined and star quarterback hurting, the Philadelphia Eagles did it with defense. A swarming D had nine sacks, forced a safety and got three turnovers, and the Eagles beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 15-6 Sunday. The Eagles hit Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger often and eventually knocked him out of the game with a hand injury in the fourth quarter. Brian Dawkins made a flying sack, swatting the ball out of Roethlisberger's hand and recovering at the Steelers 18. Roethlisberger was replaced by Byron Leftwich when the Steelers got the ball with just over 2 minutes left. The Steelers got just 180 yards of offense, including 33 on the ground.
Analysis: Just six days earlier, Philly's defense couldn't stop anybody. The Dallas Cowboys moved the ball at will in a 41-37 victory last Monday. But this unit was rejuvenated against the Steelers (2-1). Roethlisberger had no time to throw and Willie Parker couldn't find any room to run. The nine sacks were a nice touch as well. The Eagles defense always has potential under defensive coordinator Jim Johnson; we just never know which team will show up. Consider the Eagles DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option Week 4 against the Bears.
News: The showdown between the Eagles and Cowboys Week 2 was expected to be a display of offensive prowess and the two teams didn't disappoint. The Cowboys edged the Eagles 41-37 as both teams' defenses were shredded. The Eagles allowed 380 yards to the Cowboys, including 312 through the air. Philadelphia didn't record any sacks, but picked off a Tony Romo pass and scored when Chris Gocong recovered a Romo fumble in the end zone in the second quarter.
Analysis: The Eagles defense was much better in a Week 1 win against the Rams, allowing three points and 166 yards, but they were playing a much superior team Week 2. The Eagles have a lot of talent on defense and are led by a defensive whiz (Jim Johnson), but the Eagles DST remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 3 against the Steelers.
News: The Eagles held the Rams to just three points and 166 yards of total offense in Week 1. They did not force a turnover, but did sack Marc Bulger four times.
Analysis: The Eagles made a few upgrades to their defense, particularly DB Asante Samuel and they've always been good at getting after the quarterback. In Week 2, they'll face a tough offense at Dallas on Monday night and won't be a must-start defensive unit despite this solid game. But they'll certainly be useful this year in weeks where they face favorable matchups.
News: The Eagles got a pair of special teams scores in Friday's 27-17 preseason win against the Patriots. Quintin Demps returned a kickoff in the second quarter 101 yards for a score and DeSean Jackson followed minutes later with a 76-yard punt return for a touchdown right before the half. The Eagles backups allowed two late touchdowns, but the defense held a Tom Brady-less offense to 319 yards, including 65 rushing. Philadelphia had four sacks and no turnovers.
Analysis: The Eagles made a few upgrades to their defense, particularly DB Asante Samuel, and special teams, the two rookie returners who scored Friday, in the offseason. The moves seem to be paying off already. The Eagles DST is still considered a high-end No. 2 Fantasy option, but they could end the season as a No. 1 option.
News: Eagles DB Asante Samuel returned to practice Sunday after being sidelined since July 26 by a strained hamstring. Samuel was hurt while working in 7-on-7 drills during the team's first practice in full pads this summer. He participated in about three-quarters of Sunday's practice. "We took him out (and are) just easing him back in," head coach Andy Reid said. "He feels good, and I want to make sure he keeps feeling good."
Analysis: Reid said there was a chance Samuel could participate in the preseason home opener against Carolina on Thursday. Samuel, who did not speak with reporters, signed a six-year, $57 million contract with the Eagles after spending his first five seasons with New England. He missed time during the team's workouts in June with a strained left hamstring. It appears as though the Eagles should have Samuel on track for the season opener barring any setbacks in his recovery. Samuel is considered a nice No. 2 defensive back when healthy. The Eagles DST is still considered a high-end No. 2 Fantasy option as well.
News:Sheldon Brown intercepted Kevin Kolb's pass and ran it back for a touchdown during Philadelphia Eagles training camp Tuesday, waving his finger in the air the whole way. Brown is no showboat. But the veteran cornerback may have a little extra motivation after the Eagles signed All-Pro cornerback Asante Samuel to a megacontract on the first day of the NFL's free-agency period. Practice may dictate who plays more when Philadelphia lines up for real games this season. It appeared the disgruntled Lito Sheppard would be sent elsewhere. But the team's inability to trade Sheppard has left the secondary crowded. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson and coach Andy Reid insist Samuel, Sheppard and Brown will be used in a rotation, giving the team perhaps the best cornerback trio in the league. It's more likely that Sheppard and Brown will end up competing for the starting job because Samuel didn't get a six-year, $57 million deal to share time.
Analysis: Brown and Sheppard could get plenty of playing time because many teams use three wide receivers in more offensive sets. The hard-hitting Brown is comfortable playing the nickel spot, so Johnson has more options. "The main thing is we're going with all three of them on the field a lot," Johnson said. "You never know, I might start the game with all three of them on the field. There are a lot of things that we feel comfortable doing with those three guys. It'll work itself out. I'm not real concerned with that right now. It's good competition." This is poor news for Brown and Sheppard, although they should see the field enough, but it is great news for the Eagles DST. Already considered a high-end No. 2 unit, having three very capable DBs might even put them in the top 10.
News: Free-agent defensive end Chris Clemons signed a five-year contract with the Eagles on Saturday, a day after the team inked CB Asante Samuel to a huge free-agent contract. Clemons had eight sacks in a reserve role with Oakland last season and will be part of a four-man rotation with Pro Bowl end Trent Cole, veteran Juqua Thomas and second-year pro Victor Abiamiri. Samuel had six interceptions in 2007 with one touchdown and 16 picks the past two seasons. He also added 44 tackles (41 solo) in '07. He'll start for sure, likely opposite CB Sheldon Brown.
Analysis: Clemons will help put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and Samuel will reap the benefits. These additions certainly help the Eagles' defense look good for 2008 Fantasy use. Figure them to be a top-end No. 2 DST with potential to be a No. 1 option and certainly a strong bye-week replacement unit. Think final-round pick with them.
News: The Eagles have officially signed free-agent CB Asante Samuel to a six-year contract, likely making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the NFL. Samuel had six interceptions in 2007 with one touchdown and 16 picks the past two seasons. He also added 44 tackles (41 solo) in '07.
Analysis: With the Eagles, Samuel will get his fair share of interceptions and benefit from the Eagles' awesome blitz schemes. This will definitely pad their takeaway total and make them tougher to score on. The Eagles are not likely to be done making changes this offseason, but they're definitely a better team with Samuel on board. Think of them as a top-end No. 2 Fantasy DST with this news.
News: PhiladelphiaEagles.com confirms that free-agent CB Asante Samuel visited the Eagles on Friday. Several media outlets list the Eagles as the front-runner to pay for Samuel's services. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports that the club is interested in signing SS Gibril Wilson, formerly of the Giants. Samuel had six interceptions in 2007 with one touchdown and 16 picks the past two seasons. He also added 44 tackles (41 solo). Wilson totaled 92 tackles (78 solo) with four interceptions (a career-high) and seven passes defensed.
Analysis: If the Eagles add both of these quality DBs and pair them with their sneaky blitz scheme, they're going to be tough to score on. We'll keep tabs on the Eagles' secondary and deliver the news as soon as we get it, but they'll have top-10 DST potential with Samuel and Wilson.
News: The Eagles DST unit didn't cash in like Fantasy owners had hoped in 2007. The team totaled 37 sacks, 19 fumble recoveries, a meek 11 interceptions and no touchdowns from either the defense or the return team. Those paltry stats pushed the Eagles DST into the bottom third of options in standard-scoring leagues. The Philly defense wasn't overly awful, either -- they ranked seventh against the run and 18th against the pass.
Analysis: So what happened? A lack of stats for Eagles defenders and a lack of touchdowns on kick and punt returns limited the DST's Fantasy production. If they can add a punch at safety, outside linebacker and kick returner, they'll be worth a look in Fantasy leagues in 2008. But until then, they're clearly a No. 2 unit not worth drafting except in the deepest of Fantasy Football leagues.
News: The Eagles allowed just nine points and 271 yards of offense in Week 17 vs. Buffalo. They did not have a sack, though, and did not force any turnovers.
Analysis: The Eagles played well despite the absences of Lito Sheppard and Brian Dawkins in the secondary. They had an up-and-down season, though, and were only useful as a No. 2 defensive unit in larger leagues for the most part. They won't be drafted early in 2008.
News: The Eagles announced that CB Lito Sheppard and FS Brian Dawkins were doubtful to play in Week 17 vs. Buffalo.
Analysis: The Eagles secondary won't be nearly as effective without those two playmakers, so expect Buffalo to have an easier time racking up yardage and points. Think twice before starting the Eagles DST in Week 17.
News: The Eagles DST had one sack and one interception, both by rookie LB Stewart Bradley, at New Orleans in Week 16.
Analysis: That's all the Eagles DST could muster up against a turnover prone Saints offense, but the should do better against the Bills in their season finale at home in Week 17. Figure them to be a low-end No. 1 option.
News: Against one of the best offenses in the league, the Eagles defense had one of its best performances of the season Week 15 at Dallas, allowing six points on 240 yards. It also recorded three sacks and three interceptions. The Eagles special teams, meanwhile, picked up 122 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST put together another great game against a great offense Week 14 against the Giants. It has reemerged as a solid start in Fantasy, but it has a tough matchup Week 16 at New Orleans. We'd only advise starting it in the most desperate of circumstances.
News: The Eagles allowed 16 points and 318 yards of offense in Week 14 vs. the Giants. They forced two turnovers and had two sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles defense did a lot of bending, but not so much breaking in Week 14. They allowed the Giants to score just one touchdown, limiting them to three field goals with the team in good scoring range. Leave the Eagles reserved for their tough Week 15 matchup at Dallas.
News: The Eagles DST hosts the Giants in Philadelphia in Week 14. The Giants are ranked 15th in total offense, including 18th through the air and sixth on the ground.
Analysis: But the Giants are dealing with injuries in the running game and star receiver Plaxico Burress, and Eli Manning has been inconsistent lately. The Eagles DST is ranked 12th in total defense, and we suggest starting them in larger leagues for this matchup.
News: The Eagles DST totaled two sacks, one interception and three forced fumbles vs. Seattle in Week 13. They allowed 187 passing yards and two touchdowns through the air, and 135 rushing yards with two touchdowns on the ground.
Analysis: Philadelphia's next opponent is the Giants, who have been running fairly well but having troubles passing. Think of the Eagles DST as a low-end No. 1 unit for Week 14 play.
News: The Eagles DST will host Seattle's 11th-ranked offense in Week 13. The Seahawks are ranked eighth in the passing game and 21st in the running game.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a solid start in all Fantasy leagues against an offense that isn't very good running the ball lately.
News: Facing one of the most dynamic offenses the league has ever known, the Eagles defense put up a reasonably good fight Week 12 at New England. Sure, it allowed 31 points on 410 yards, but it also sacked Tom Brady three times. The Eagles special teams had 133 yards.
Analysis: Hopefully, you didn't have the Eagles DST starting in Fantasy this week, but if you did, at least it didn't kill you. It should fare a little better Week 13 against the Seahawks, but we still don't advise using it in Fantasy.
News: The Eagles DST held the Miami Dolphins to seven points in Week 11, but failed to record an interception, sack or fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Eagles DST failed to capitalize on John Beck starting his first NFL game as they didn't force one turnover in a 17-7 win. They are definitely not worth starting in Week 12 against the Patriots.
News: The Eagles DST will host Miami and their rookie QB John Beck, who is expected to start, Sunday in Week 11. The Dolphins have the 19th-ranked offense (19th in the passing game and 11th in the rushing game), but with a rookie QB and Jesse Chatman at running back, the Eagles should be able to clamp down on this offense.
Analysis: Don't forget that Chris Chambers is now in San Diego and Marty Booker dropped a lot of passes last week. No matter how you look at it, this is a great matchup for the Eagles DST in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Eagles DST didn't help Fantasy owners much in Week 10, totaling a sack and two forced fumbles in a win at Washington in Week 10. The Redskins scored 25 points, threw for 215 yards and ran for 148 more.
Analysis: Next week, the Eagles DST is a must-start against an awful Dolphins offense at home. Start the Eagles DST in Week 11 with confidence.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles' defense has dropped the ball when it comes to turnovers this season. The Eagles have always had a knack for separating opposing players from the football. But lately, there's been more turnover on Philadelphia's defensive unit than turnovers on the field. The result has been a measly nine turnovers in eight games. The Eagles have made six interceptions and picked up three fumbles. Philadelphia's nine takeaways are one more than winless Miami and tie the Eagles for fewest in the NFC with New Orleans and Arizona. The Detroit Lions lead the way in the NFC with 24 takeaways (14 interceptions, 10 fumbles), and San Diego paces the AFC with a balanced 11 interceptions and 10 fumbles recovered.
Analysis: Indeed, the Eagles have pressured opposing quarterbacks. Defensive end Trent Cole is tied for the league lead in sacks with nine and ranks third on the team with 60 tackles behind linebackers Omar Gaither (83 tackles) and Takeo Spikes (76). The Eagles defense ranks seventh in the conference and 12th in the league. In the NFC, the Eagles are third against the run, allowing an average of 93 yards. But Philadelphia has been vulnerable against the pass, ranking 11th in the conference and allowing 224.2 yards per game. The Eagles should be considered a low-end starting option in Fantasy leagues against the Redskins.
News: The Eagles surrendered 38 points on 434 yards Week 9 against the Cowboys. They registered zero sacks and one interception. Their special teams gained 155 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST ranked ninth in total defense (15th against the pass and eighth against the run) entering Sunday's game, but it obviously struggles against formidable opponents. However, we consider it an advisable start for Week 10 at Washington.
News: Philadelphia hosts the Cowboys in Week 9 on Sunday. Dallas has the second ranked total offense in the NFL, with a third-ranked passing attack and ninth-ranked rushing attack. They have allowed 11 sacks and nine interceptions.
Analysis: The Eagles DST ranks ninth in total defense (15th against the pass and eighth against the run) through nine weeks. Consider the Eagles a decent Fantasy start for Week 9, despite the tough matchup.
News: Brian Dawkins did everything but wave pom-poms while he was injured. The All-Pro safety paced the sideline in his sleeveless shirts, screaming, encouraging and motivating his teammates. His cheerleading days soon could be over. Dawkins expects to play for the first time since a neck stinger forced him out in Week 2 when the Philadelphia Eagles host Dallas in an important NFC East matchup in Week 9. "To be on the sideline and to be surrounded with the guys, and everyone is pumped-up and jacked-up, it's hard to contain yourself out there," Dawkins said Wednesday after going through a full practice. "So, I've been going crazy also. This has been a different experience for me. I've had to still help the guys out, so it's taught me patience and it's taught me that in the midst of my adversity, I still have to help other people."
Analysis: Though Quintin Mikell filled in nicely for Dawkins at free safety, the five-time Pro Bowl selection has been one of the top playmakers at his position for several years. He's a fierce competitor and ferocious tackler who can intimidate opponents simply by walking onto the field. No one wants to take a shot from No. 20. "He's the heart and soul of our defense, and the heart and soul of this team," running back Brian Westbrook said. Defense hasn't been a problem for the Eagles this season. No team has scored more than 21 points against Philly's D through seven games, and it has allowed just eight touchdowns in 77 possessions. But the Eagles have just eight takeaways: three fumble recoveries and five interceptions. Perhaps Dawkins can spark a few more big plays, especially against Tony Romo, who is prone to making mistakes. Consider the Eagles a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 9 despite a tough matchup.
News: The Eagles DST unit totaled four sacks while holding the Vikings to 16 points and 182 passing yards. More impressive than that, the Eagles limited Adrian Peterson to 70 rush yards and no receiving yards.
Analysis: This was a great performance from the Philly defense, but it didn't translate into huge Fantasy points. Expect it to get worse next week when Dallas comes to Philadelphia; don't use the Eagles DST in Week 9.
News: Philadelphia travels to Minnesota to face a Vikings offense that is ranked 23rd in total offense (30th in the passing game, but first overall on the ground).
Analysis: The Eagles DST ranks 11th in total defense, including 18th against the pass and eighth against the run. They have 20 sacks, which ranks them fifth in the NFL, and we recommend starting this unit for this matchup in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Eagles DST tallied only one sack in Week 7's 19-16 loss to the Bears and gave up 386 yards.
Analysis: The 19 points allowed was a reasonable total, but the Eagles didn't do much else to help their Fantasy owners in Week 7. They should do a little better in Week 8 when they play the passing-deficient Vikings, and remain a No. 1 option in all formats.
News: The Eagles DST hosts the Chicago Bears Sunday in Week 7. The Bears are coming off a tough loss to the Vikings last week, and their offense ranks 28th in the NFL (20th through the air and 27th on the ground). They have allowed 18 sacks and a league-high 12 interceptions.
Analysis: The Eagles DST ranks seventh in total defense, with 19 sacks and five interceptions. They are ninth against the pass and against the run. Consider them a nice starting unit in Week 7 as the Bears will have their hands full.
News: The Eagles DST had an interception and three sacks Sunday against the Jets. Reno Mahe had one punt return for 32 yards, and Correll Buckhalter had two kickoff returns for 35 yards.
Analysis: Consider the Eagles a No. 1 option in Week 7 against the Bears. Chicago had two interceptions and a fumble against Minnesota.
News: The Eagles DST travels to East Meadowlands, N.J., for Week 6. The Jets rank 29th in total offense (20th through the air and 29th on the ground) through five weeks.
Analysis: The Eagles DST has 16 sacks on the season (although nine of those came against the Lions in Week 3). They rank ninth in total defense this season, including 21st against the pass and sixth against the rush. The Jets are in rough shape offensively, so consider the Eagles DST a solid start in all formats.
News: Cincinnati, Minnesota, Oakland and Philadelphia are all on bye weeks in Week 5.
Analysis: The Eagles DST ranks seventh overall in total defense (17th against the pass and fifth against the rush). They are a solid unit that has registered 15 sacks (ranking them third in the NFL) and Fantasy owners will want to start them once they return from the bye.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles DST allowed 16 points and 212 total net yards in Week 4 at N.Y. Giants. They also had a sack and interception in the loss.
Analysis: The Eagles DST remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 6 at N.Y. Jets. At least they'll have two full weeks to get their banged up secondary healthy with their bye.
News: Missing from Thursday's practice for the Eagles were DB Brian Dawkins (neck), DB Lito Sheppard (knee) and LB Takeo Spikes (personal reasons).
Analysis: The Eagles DST is banged up and has a tough matchup against the Giants. Consider them a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: FS Brian Dawkins (neck) and CB Lito Sheppard (knee) were two of five Eagles starters who missed practice Wednesday. Dawkins suffers from neck spasms as a result of the stinger he suffered in Week 2 of the season against Washington. The All-Pro safety and emotional leader hasn't been medically cleared yet to play, and is hopeful he'll hear good news some time this week. Considering the sensitive area of Dawkins' injury and how another hit near his neck could keep him out even longer, he understandably wants to eliminate any chance he would be tentative before delivering his next big hit. "I don't want to think about nothing when I play," he said. "When you are thinking about something, you're going to be a step behind, or something else could happen. When I get in there, I want to be able to concentrate on the opponent, the play formation, down and distance."
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a fair unit for Week 4 play with or without Dawkins or Sheppard. They are a high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 4 at the G-Men.
News: According to the Philadelphia Daily News, injured Eagles DBs Lito Sheppard and Brian Dawkins have a shot at returning to action in Week 4 against the New York Giants.
Analysis: The Eagles DST did a decent job against everybody but Roy Williams in their 56-21 win over the Lions and will be facing a much lower-powered offense in the form of the Giants on Sunday. They are a high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 4.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles had no trouble getting to Jon Kitna in their 56-21 win over the Lions in Week 3. They totaled nine sacks with DE Nick Cole (three sacks), DE Juqua Thomas (two sacks) and DT Brodrick Bunkley (two sacks) leading the way. DB Quintin Mikell had one sack, while one sack was credited to the team. Thomas and Mikell also had fumble recoveries.
Analysis: Cole is the only one of these players with any value in IDP leagues and could be worth a start st DE against the Giants in Week 4. The Eagles DST's secondary is beat up, so wait to see how healthy they get during the week before starting them on Sunday against their division rivals.
News: Eagles DBs Brian Dawkins and Lito Sheppard were named among the inactives for Sunday's Week 3 game vs. the Lions.
Analysis: With Dawkins and Sheppard out, things don't look good for the Eagles DST today against Detroit's high-powered passing game. Jon Kitna, Roy Williams et al should feast on the Philly backups, so bench the Eagles DST if you can.
News: Eagles safety Brian Dawkins missed practice again with a neck stinger and will be a gametime decision, while cornerback Lito Sheppard likely will miss his second straight game with a knee injury. If Dawkins can't play, the Eagles will miss their emotional leader. Quintin Mikell, a special teams ace, would start for Dawkins. Sheppard was injured in the first half of the season-opening loss at Green Bay. He did some light running at practice Friday.
Analysis: If the Eagles were playing a team with a poor passing offense, we wouldn't be as concerned. But with the Lions coming to The Linc in Week 3, the team is going to be in big trouble if they're going to be without Dawkins and Sheppard. Fantasy owners should take the time to find a replacement DST and possibly call on them over the Eagles for Week 3 if both Dawkins and Sheppard are out.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles DST allowed 20 points and 337 total net yards in Week 2 against the Redskins in a loss. The Eagles racked up just one sack and one interception, as they continue to be banged up. The team lost DB Sean Considine in the second half, as he might have aggravated a nagging knee injury.
Analysis: The Eagles were pretty mediocre for Fantasy purposes in the loss in Week 2. Philadelphia will host the Detroit Lions in Week 3, a team which has exhibited an above-average passing attack so far this season. Play the matchups and perhaps go another way in Week 3, leaving the Eagles on your bench until they get healthier as a unit.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles solved their punt return problems by turning to a familiar face. Reno Mahe signed a one-year contract with Philadelphia on Tuesday, giving the team a sure-handed returner with experience. J.R. Reed was released to make room for Mahe. It's unknown whether Mahe will be ready when the Eagles host the Washington Redskins on Monday night.
Analysis: Mahe had been out of the NFL since the Eagles declined to re-sign him following last season. The reserve running back was the team's primary returner on punts and kickoffs last season. He averaged 9.4 yards on 18 punt returns and fair-caught 12 others. In 2005, Mahe led the NFL with an average of 12.8 yards on 21 punt returns and had nine fair catches. Overall, Mahe has averaged 9.4 yards on 64 punt returns in four seasons, while making 35 fair catches. His longest return is 44 yards. Mahe doesn't have breakaway speed and isn't a threat to go the distance, but he catches the ball and makes good decisions. The Eagles DST remains a must-start for Week 2 against the Redskins.
News: Two-time Pro Bowl DB Lito Sheppard is expected to miss at least one game for the Eagles with a sprained knee ligament.Sheppard hurt his right knee in a three-way collision with teammate Sean Considine and Packers receiver Ruvell Martin late in the first half of Philadelphia's 16-13 loss at Green Bay on Sunday. An MRI exam Monday confirmed Sheppard has a sprained medial collateral ligament. The Eagles host the Washington Redskins next Monday night. "I don't think he'll make it this week," coach Andy Reid said. Will James would replace Sheppard in the starting lineup, and Joselio Hanson would fill the nickel spot.
Analysis: Sheppard's absence will hurt the Eagles DST but it's not a detriment against the Redskins. Consider the Eagles DST a No. 1 option in Week 2.
News: The Eagles DST had four sacks, an interception and a fumble recovery Sunday against Green Bay. Correll Buckhalter also had one kickoff return for 15 yards, and J.R. Reed had three returns for 66 yards.
Analysis: The Eagles DST, D and ST are solid options in Week 2 against Washington. Consider them a No. 1 option.
News: DB Dustin Fox (heel), DL Jevon Kearse (knee), DL Montae Reagor (knee) and DB Dedrick Roper (foot) in Sunday's preseason game at Pittsburgh. Fox and Kearse recorded no statistics, while Reagor had two solo tackles. Roper also chipped in with three solo stops and an assist.
Analysis: This is a top-five Fantasy DST, and that's before went into the draft and got more talent! Expect them to be taken soon after the Ravens, Bears and Chargers are off the board in all 2007 Fantasy drafts.
News: The middle linebacker position in Philadelphia belongs to Omar Gaither now, earlier than expected after the surprising release of Jeremiah Trotter. One practice, Gaither worked with the first team defense; the next one, he was a full-fledged member prepping for a preseason start. The second-year pro isn't exactly a novice - he started seven games last year at weakside linebacker - but taking over for a locker-room leader, fan favorite and four-time Pro Bowl selection like Trotter comes with its own set of unique expectations. "I consider myself to be fairly athletic, smart, intelligent," said Gaither. "I have a nose for the ball. Any time you can have a guy like that in the middle who can run side-to-side, help in pass coverage, things like that, I think it helps the defense."
Analysis: Gaither impressed us last year when he started and helped the Eagles' sagging run defense. The LB corps will now feature Gaither, Takeo Spikes and Chris Gocong starting, with Matt McCoy and Stewart Bradley as backups. Luckily, the Eagles have a heck of a defensive line and secondary, so the release of Trotter won't sting. They remain a top-10 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer is among those reporting that the Eagles have released veteran LB Jeremiah Trotter. Trotter had overcome a knee injury to be an effective defender for the Eagles. Second-year player Omar Gaither is expected to move into the middle of the Eagles' defense. "Jeremiah is one of my favorite guys," Reid said in a statement. "There's no question that this is the toughest part of this job. He and I met about this last night, and it was very emotional for the both of us. Jeremiah and I have been together for many years, and he's played a vital role in helping this team win a lot of football games. He developed himself into a Pro Bowl middle linebacker through a lot of hard work and desire. In my mind, he will always be a Philadelphia Eagle, and I'm sure he feels the same way. I wish he and his family nothing but the best in the future."
Analysis: While Trotter will find a new home elsewhere, the Eagles' defensive depth takes a hit with this cut. The LB corps will now feature Gaither, Takeo Spikes and Chris Gocong starting, with Matt McCoy and Stewart Bradley as backups. Luckily, the Eagles have a heck of a defensive line and secondary, so the release of Trotter won't sting. They remain a top-10 Fantasy DST worth a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: Defensive end Jerome McDougle strained his triceps in Monday's preseason game and defensive tackle LaJuan Ramsey sustained a high ankle sprain.
Analysis: McDougle is considered day to day, while Ramsey's injury might be a little more serious. Hopefully the injury to McDougle doesn't linger into the regular season. This is a top-five DST. Expect them to be taken soon after the Ravens, Bears, Patriots and Chargers are off the board in all 2007 Fantasy drafts.
News: Free agent defensive tackle Ian Scott signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, three months after starting in the Super Bowl for the Chicago Bears. Scott, a fourth-round pick by the Bears in 2003, recorded 41 tackles in 18 games last year, including the playoffs. In four seasons with the Bears, he had 155 tackles and two sacks. Scott is the second veteran defensive tackle signed by the Eagles this offseason. Former Indianapolis Colt Montae Reagor signed a three-year deal in March.
Analysis: Scott's presence will help the Eagles' front seven, particularly against the run, which was a problem for them last season. Defensively speaking, the Eagles are strong: They have a solid D-line rotation, an improved LB corps thanks to Takeo Spikes, and their secondary is also polished. Bottom line: This is a top-five Fantasy DST, and that's before they go into the draft and get more talent! Expect them to be taken soon after the Ravens, Bears, Patriots and Chargers are off the board in all 2007 Fantasy drafts.
News: The Eagles acquired Pro Bowl linebacker Takeo Spikes and quarterback Kelly Holcomb from the Bills on Monday night for defensive tackle Darwin Walker and a conditional draft pick in 2008. A nine-year NFL veteran, Spikes was slow recovering last year from a right Achilles' tendon tear he suffered in Week 3 of the 2005 season. Spikes, a former first-round pick, could be a big upgrade at linebacker for the Eagles, who have struggled at that spot the past few seasons. "Takeo Spikes is a proven playmaker in the National Football League," Eagles GM Tom Heckert said. "He has the ability to play all three linebacking positions and were happy to add him to our defense."
Analysis: This is big for the Eagles, who needed some help at linebacker. Defensively speaking, the Eagles are strong: They have a solid D-line rotation that includes DEs Jevon Kearse, Darren Howard, Trent Cole and Juqua Thomas. Spikes immediately improves a LB corps that already had veteran Jeremiah Trotter and second-year sleeper Omar Gaither. Their secondary is also polished with CBs Lito Sheppard and Sheldon Brown and safeties Brian Dawkins and Sean Considine. Bottom line: This is a top-five Fantasy DST, and that's before they go into the draft and get more talent! Expect them to be taken soon after the Ravens, Bears and Chargers are off the board in all 2007 Fantasy drafts.
News: Free agent defensive end Juqua Thomas re-signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on Friday, the first day of free agency. Thomas' playing time increased last year when three-time Pro Bowler Jevon Kearse suffered a season-ending injury in Week 2. He responded by posting career highs of 47 tackles and six sacks. Thomas originally signed with Tennessee as a rookie free agent out of Oklahoma State. He played four season with the Titans before signing with the Eagles during training camp in 2005. For his career, Thomas has recorded 128 tackles and 11 sacks in 73 games.
Analysis: Thomas probably won't be worth using in 2007 Fantasy IDP league play since Jevon Kearse will be healthy and back in action. The Eagles DST remains a No. 1 DST and will benefit from having Thomas keep the D-line rotation deep.
News: The Eagles defense was strong in 2006, totaling five defensive touchdowns, 40 sacks, 19 interceptions and 21 fumbles recovered.
Analysis: The Eagles' division wasn't as difficult as expected and the defense improved as the season went on. Consider this unit a No. 1 option (but not at the top of the list) in 2007 league play, worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: Eagles DB Lito Sheppard (elbow) is out, while LB Dedrick Roper (knee), LB Omar Gaither (shoulder), LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee) and DB Michael Lewis (knee) are listed as probable for Divisional Playoff game at New Orleans.
Analysis: The loss of Sheppard is huge for the Eagles defense, but he is the only starter expected to be out against the Saints. Still, they are going up against one of the best offenses in the leagues making the Eagles DST a less than desireable Fantasy option in postseason leagues.
News: Eagles Pro Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard will miss Saturday's second-round playoff game against New Orleans with a dislocated right elbow. Sheppard was injured going for a tackle on a running play in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 23-20 victory over the New York Giants. He was replaced by Rod Hood. William James, who was inactive against the Giants, will take Sheppard's roster spot and join Hood, Sheldon Brown and Joselio Hanson in the secondary. Should the Eagles advance, it's possible Sheppard could return to the lineup. "It's a little tricky," coach Andy Reid said Monday. "This week for sure he won't be back. We'll see down the road, if there is a down the road."
Analysis: Sheppard is a solid NFL cornerback, so this will hurt the Eagles defense, specifically against a potent passing team like the Saints. Consider the Eagles DST a fair but not optimal option in Fantasy Playoff leagues.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles DST allowed 17 points and 378 total net yards in Week 17 against the Falcons. They also had five sacks, one interception and no fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Eagles defense is a decent low-end No. 1 option in Fantasy leagues on Draft Day in 2007.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles declared CB William James, OG Max Jean-Gilles, OT Winston Justice, SS Michael Lewis (knee), OT Patrick McCoy, CB Bruce Perry, DL LaJuan Ramsey and LB Dedrick Roper inactive in Week 17 against the Falcons.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are worth considering on Draft Day heading into the 2007 season.
News: On Wednesday, the Eagles listed the following defenders on their injury report: CB William James (calf), SS Michael Lewis (knee), LB Dedrick Roper (knee) and CB Lito Sheppard (back) as questionable; LB Shawn Barber (neck), FS Brian Dawkins (hip) and LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee) as probable. The Eagles play vs. Atlanta in Week 17.
Analysis: Despite Lito Sheppard's questionable status, the Eagles defense should be a solid Fantasy option for Week 17 against the offensively challenged Falcons.
News: The Eagles defense held the Cowboys to seven points in Dallas in Week 16. They also tallied three sacks, a fumble recovery and two interceptions in the game.
Analysis: The Eagles defense has re-established itself in recent weeks and is worth using as a low-end Fantasy choice vs. Atlanta in Week 17.
News: Eagles coach Andy Reid said Monday that SS Michael Lewis has a strained MCL in his knee, and added that if the team had to practice that Lewis wouldn't be able to participate. "We will see how he does here in the next few days," Reid said. Reid added that CB William James has a strained calf and will have an MRI.
Analysis: Philadelphia's defense has not been good at stopping opponents from racking up yardage and points, but they can be good at creating turnovers and getting sacks. Consider them a low-end option at Dallas in Week 16.
News: The Eagles allowed 22 points and 358 yards of total offense in Week 15 at the N.Y. Giants, but scored a key touchdown late in the fourth quarter on an interception return by Trent Cole. They also forced four turnovers in the game and picked up a sack.
Analysis: The turnovers and the defensive touchdown should have made up for the yardage and points allowed in the game. Consider them a decent start in leagues of 12-plus teams for Week 16 at Dallas, but you'll need another game full of turnovers and sacks because they are likely to give up points and yards to a tough Dallas offense.
News: Eagles DB Michael Lewis returned an interception 84 yards in the second quarter of their Week 14 win at Washington. They allowed 19 points, holding the Redskins to four field goals and a touchdown. The Redskins did tally 415 yards of total offense, but the Eagles intercepted two passes and sacked QB Jason Campbell twice.
Analysis: The Eagles defense won the game for all intents and purposes in Week 14. They'll face a tough Giants offense in Week 15 on the road, though. Consider them a decent start in leagues of 12-plus teams and hope for a possible bad day by young QB Eli Manning.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles DST allowed 24 points and 377 total net yards in Week 13 against the Panthers. They accounted for two interceptions, but were unable to come up with a fumble recovery or any sacks.
Analysis: The Eagles will try and lay the wood to rookie QB Jason Campbell and the Redskins offense when they pay a visit to Washington in Week 14.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles declared WR Jason Avant, LB Shawn Barber, CB William James, OL Max Jean-Gilles, OL Winston Justice, OL Pat McCoy, RB Ryan Moats and DT LaJuan Ramsey inactive for Week 13 against the Panthers.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are worthy of Fantasy consideration.
News: The Philadelphia defense allowed 45 points and 420 total net yards in Week 12 at Indianapolis. The Eagles also did not pick up any sacks or fumble recoveries, although they posted one interception of QB Peyton Manning.
Analysis: The Eagles will look for a lot better results in Week 13 against Carolina on Monday night, but they are only worth considering in leagues of 12 or more teams at this point.
News: The Philadelphia Eagles have announced LB Shawn Barber (knee), DL Brodrick Bunkley (toe), OG Max Jean-Gilles, CB Williams James, OT Winston Justice, OT Patrick McCoy, RB Ryan Moats and LB Jason Short (ankle) are inactive for Week 12 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are worthy of Fantasy consideration for Week 13 against Carolina.
News: The Eagles DST gave up 31 points against the Titans with three sacks and one fumble recovery. DL Trent Cole had eight tackles and 1.5 sacks. DB Brian Dawkins had six tackles. LB Jeremiah Trotter had eight tackles. DB Michael Lewis had three tackles. DL Darren Howard had three tackles and a sack. DB Lito Sheppard had one tackle. DL Mike Patterson had three tackles and a fumble recovery. And DB Sean Considine had two tackles and a half-sack.
Analysis: Consider the Eagles DST a No. 2 option against the Colts in Week 12. Use all IDP players as needed.
News: The Eagles allowed only three points and 278 yards in Week 10 vs. Washington. They did not sack QB Mark Brunell, but Sheldon Brown did return an interception 70 yards for a score.
Analysis: The score was enough to make this a great week for the Eagles defense. Not to mention the fact that they gave up just three points. Consider them a great option for Week 11 vs. Tennessee.
News: Once a group that induced fear and inflicted hurt on the opposition, the Philadelphia Eagles' defense is on the defensive. Rested and refreshed after a bye week, the Eagles returned to work and their task of trying to figure out how a promising 4-1 start degenerated into a 4-4 record midway through the season. With a critical NFC East game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday, the Eagles have an offense that has been inconsistent. They also have to unravel their perplexing defense. When the Eagles left Lincoln Financial Field two Sundays ago, they were left to ponder how the Jacksonville Jaguars controlled the clock and amassed 209 rushing yards in a 13-6 victory.
Analysis: Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Johnson says the Eagles have to be more controlled on defense, avoid trying to do too much and plug the gaps. Run defense isn't the only place where the Eagles have struggled. They also have just three sacks in their last three games.Johnson said teams are putting together schemes to neutralize the Eagles, such as having quarterbacks get rid of the ball quickly. He's confident the sack numbers will rise. Johnson said the Eagles are more concerned with the overall play of the defense and whether they are getting enough pressure on first and second downs. There are major problems with the Eagles defense and things might not get better in Week 10 against the Redskins. The Eagles DST will be a risky Fantasy option in Week 10. They should be considered a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Eagles DT Mike Patterson broke his hand in Sunday's loss to Jacksonville, but he returned to the game and is expected to play against Washington after the bye week.
Analysis: Patterson has played strong through eight games with 28 tackles, 1 1/2 sacks and a touchdown. The Eagles can ill-afford to lose another DL up front and Patterson should be ready to go in Week 10. The bye week certainly will give him more time to heal. Patterson is a low-end Fantasy DL when healthy. The Eagles DST will be a risky Fantasy option in Week 10 against the Redskins, if Patterson is out, seeing how the Redskins like to pound the ball on the ground.
News: Former Giants cornerback Will Peterson signed a one-year contract with the Eagles on Tuesday. He also dropped his last name and is going by William James now. To make room on the roster, the Eagles released cornerback/returner Dexter Wynn. Once considered one of the top young players at his position, James hasn't played in a game since last September because of a back injury. He joins a solid group of defensive backs that includes starting cornerbacks Lito Sheppard and Sheldon Brown and nickel back Rod Hood. "William is someone that we have liked for a long time, going back to when I was in Miami when he was coming out in the draft," Eagles general manager Tom Heckert said. "We obviously know him very well from playing against him two times a year while he was with the Giants. He's a really good cover corner who has good size and when healthy, he was a very productive player for the Giants. We feel very confident that he will help us in the near future."
Analysis: James will provide depth for the Eagles' secondary but is otherwise not going to greatly benefit the Eagles defense. The team has a bye in Week 9.
News: The Eagles allowed just 285 yards of offense and only 13 points in Week 8 vs. Jacksonville, but still managed to lose due to an inefficient offensive performance. They managed only one sack in the game and forced just one turnover.
Analysis: The Eagles played well defensively, but they've seriously slowed down in the sack department. They produce well from a Fantasy standpoint when they make up for yards allowed with sacks and turnovers, but that hasn't happened lately. They'll be a good start in Week 10 when they face the Redskins after taking a week to rest.
News: The Eagles defense totaled two sacks at Tampa Bay in Week 7 with no interceptions, forced fumbles or touchdowns.
Analysis: An off week for what is normally a solid Fantasy defense. They should be back to form vs. Jacksonville in Week 8.
News: Even though the Philadelphia Eagles have allowed more yards passing than usual, quarterbacks shouldn't salivate at the thought of facing a once-vaunted secondary. The Eagles (4-2) are 27th against the pass, allowing an average of 237.7 yards through the air per game. However, defensive coordinator Jim Johnson is confident a unit that includes five-time Pro Bowl free safety Brian Dawkins, former Pro Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard and fellow cornerback Sheldon Brown still is a formidable group.
Analysis: Johnson points to injuries - Sheppard missed three games and nickel back Rod Hood has been sidelined the last three - and other factors such as the Eagles had big leads in many of their games and played a bend-but-don't-break defense. While the secondary has played better than the numbers indicate, some of those big plays have been costly. Brown was beaten by Plaxico Burress for a game-winning, 31-yard TD catch in a 30-24 overtime loss to the New York Giants in Week 2. Lewis, a Pro Bowl selection two years ago, bit on a fake and gave up Joe Horn's tying 48-yard TD catch in a 27-24 loss to the Saints last week. Michael Lewis was replaced by second-year pro Sean Considine and both are expected to play against Tampa Bay on Sunday. Consider them a good unit to use in any format for Week 7 at Tampa Bay against a team that has struggled offensively.
News: Eagles DB Brian Dawkins (wrist), DB Lito Sheppard (hand) and DB Sean Considine (shoulder) are probable for Week 7 at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Eagles secondary has been battered all season, and yet, they are still among the best defenses in the league. The Eagles DST didn't have a great performance in Week 6 against the Saints, but facing a rookie Bucs QB Bruce Gradkowski in Week 7 should provide for an easier matchup. Consider using the Eagles DST in Week 7. As for IDP players, Sheppard should be ready to go and he is a legit No. 1 Fantasy DB. Dawkins is a No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy DB on most occassions. Considine is usually not a viable option, however, there has been talk in Philly that he could take over for the struggling Michael Lewis. Until that is official, Considine should be nowhere near your IDP roster.
News: For the first time all season, the Eagles failed to record a sack in Week 6 at New Orleans. They allowed 27 points and 372 yards in the game, but were able to force two interceptions.
Analysis: The Eagles have given up yards and points this season, but have been able to make up for it from a Fantasy standpoint because of the fact that they've gotten more sacks than any other team in football. That wasn't the case on Sunday. Consider them a good unit to use in any format for Week 7 at Tampa Bay against a team that has struggled offensively.
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Eagles DB Lito Sheppard missed practice on Friday because he was ill and not because of a sprained right ankle that kept him on the sidelines earlier this season. Sheppard, who returned to action last weekend against the Cowboys, was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week after recording two interceptions, one that he returned for a 102-yard touchdown. Sheppard was added to the injury report on Friday as being probable for Week 6 at New Orleans.
Analysis: As long as Sheppard gets over his illness, he should be playing against the Saints. Just to be on the safe side, treat this as a gametime decision. But it looks safe for IDP players to have Sheppard active for Week 6. It is also strongly advised for those to play the Eagles DST in Week 6.
News: The Eagles sacked Cowboys QB Drew Bledsoe seven times in Week 5. They allowed 24 points and 320 yards of total offense, but were able to force three interceptions and three fumbles en route to a victory. They also scored a defensive touchdown on an interception return by Lito Sheppard.
Analysis: The Eagles made up for the yards and points with the sacks and turnovers -- not to mention a touchdown. This is about as much as you can ask from a defensive unit and the Eagles have been able to fill up the stat sheet every week. Consider them a must-start for Week 6 at New Orleans.
News: Eagles CB Lito Sheppard has been cleared for practice and will participate on Wednesday, according to head coach Andy Reid.
Analysis: Sheppard will certainly help the Eagles defense against a strong Dallas offense. Using Philadelphia's defense in Week 5 isn't a great idea since the Cowboys are capable of putting up a lot of points, but if you are out of other reliable options, it's not the end of the world.
News: The Philadelphia DST did not allow a touchdown in Week 4 against the Packers, giving up just nine points (three field goals). They allowed just 318 total net yards, recording no sacks, just two interceptions and one fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is worth a look in Week 5 against former teammate WR Terrell Owens and the Cowboys.
News: In addition to RB Brian Westbrook the Eagles declared QB A.J. Feeley (emergencey QB), DB Lito Sheppard, DB Roderick Hood and DT Sam Rayburn inactive for Week 4 vs. Green Bay.
Analysis: Aside from Westbrook, Sheppard and Hood, none of these players are worth owning in Fantasy leagues at the moment. Ignore them until further notice.
News: Eagles cornerback Lito Sheppard returned to practice Saturday for the first time since injuring his ankle during Philadelphia's season opener. Sheppard, who has missed the last two games, is listed as doubtful for Monday night's game against Green Bay, but said he hopes he can return to face the Packers. "It felt good," Sheppard said. "We're just taking it day by day." Cornerback Rod Hood (heel), who has been starting in place of Sheppard, missed practice and could also miss Monday night's game. If neither Sheppard nor Hood can play, Joselio Hanson would likely start opposite Sheldon Brown.
Analysis: The Eagles will have their hands full on Monday night with Packers QB Brett Favre, who is looking to do something for the first time in his illustrous career -- throw for more than 300 yards in three straight games. Use caution when deciding to play the Eagles DST in Week 4. As for IDP players who have Sheppard, don't count on him for Week 4 and go with a healthier option at this time.
News: At the end of Sunday's 38-24 win over the 49ers, just one of the Eagles' top six defensive backs -- cornerback Sheldon Brown -- was on the field. That was because the other five all were hurt. CB Lito Sheppard was in street clothes, sitting out his second straight game with a bad ankle sprain. The team's third corner, Rod Hood, had limped off the field early in the fourth quarter after aggravating a heel injury. FS Brian Dawkins was nursing a concussion he received when he tried to tackle Niners rookie running back Michael Robinson. Strong safety Michael Lewis was out with a quad contusion. Second-year safety Sean Considine, who plays in the Eagles' 4-1-6 passing-down alignment, had a strained hip flexor. With Brett Favre, who threw for 340 yards and 3 touchdowns in Week 3, waiting for them on Monday night, this is not a good time to be playing with a depleted secondary.
Analysis: If Sheppard, Hood, Dawkins and Considine aren't able to play, the Eagles are going to have a hard time containing Favre. If the injury report is filled with Eagles secondary players come the weekend, it is recommended you use another DST for Week 4.
News: Notable Eagles defenders on the injury report for Week 4 vs. Green Bay include CBs Lito Sheppard and Rod Hood (doubtful), FS Brian Dawkins (questionable) and LB Matt McCoy, DT Darwin Walker, SS Michael Lewis, DE Darren Howard and S Sean Considine (probable). The Eagles did not practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Despite the rash of injuries, most of these defenders should play. Consider the Eagles defense and special teams usable units for Week 4 when they host the Packers.
News: Andy Reid said that there's a chance DB Lito Sheppard could be back for Monday night's game against the Green Bay Packers. Sheppard suffered a fairly serious ankle sprain in the Eagles' season-opener against Houston and has missed the last two games, including Sunday's 38-24 win over the San Francisco 49ers. But Reid said he is hopeful the Pro Bowl corner will be able to practice Thursday when the team begins preparations for the Packers game. "He'll have a chance to practice this week and we'll see where he is at," Reid said. "It just looks like he can do most of the things that he is going to need to do to play. He wants to get back out there. We'll see what he can do. Until he is out there doing it, I am not going to give you anything until I see him with the pads on." The Eagles' defense certainly could use Sheppard back, particularly since his replacement, Rod Hood, aggravated a heel injury Sunday that he initially hurt in Week 2 against the Giants. In their first three games (Sheppard injured his ankle on the first series against Houston) without Sheppard, the Eagles have given up 5 touchdown passes and have allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 65.5 percent of their passes against them. Hood was listed as doubtful all last week and wasn't expected to play against the 49ers, but started and played most of the game until he aggravated the heel injury in the four quarter. "Rod really gave us everything he had out there and was limited," said Reid. "But he went out and played his heart out." Reid said he decided to start Hood after the Eagles trainers assured him that the cornerback couldn't injure the heel any worse. But now, he's back to square one, with red-hot Brett Favre up this week and the Dallas Cowboys next week. If neither Sheppard nor Hood can play this week, Joselio Hanson, who played in NFL Europe last spring, would start opposite Sheldon Brown. Dexter Wynn would be the team's third corner.
Analysis: That's good news for Sheppard owners and Eagles DST owners. Favre definitely will test the Eagles secondary, and it would be good to have a standout DB back there making plays. Consider Sheppard a No. 3 DB in all IDP leagues with the potential to be a No. 2 if he's 100 percent healthy.
News: The Eagles DST scored a touchdown against the 49ers when DL Mike Patterson recovered a Frank Gore fumble and went 98 yards. Patterson also recovered another fumble and got three sacks from DL Darren Howard, DB Michael Lewis and DL Trent Cole.
Analysis: The Eagles defensive line played well, but the secondary is banged up. They have a favorable matchup in Week 4 against the Packers so consider them a safe start.
News: Injuries have left the Eagles thin in the secondary. Starting corner Lito Sheppard went down in Week 1 with an ankle injury that could keep him out for 3-5 weeks. Then, last week, his replacement, Rod Hood, injured his heel. He likely will miss Sunday's game against San Francisco. With Sheppard and Hood out, Joselio Hanson, who is just four months removed from NFL Europe, will start against the 49ers. Dexter Wynn, who was cut in the preseason and then re-signed last week after Sheppard got hurt, will be the nickel corner. Dustin Fox, who was signed off the practice squad Tuesday, will be the fourth corner.
Analysis: The Eagles pass defense could be in for some trouble Sunday, if the front seven can't get any pressure on 49ers QB Alex Smith, who has been one of the league's best passers through two weeks. Not to mention the loss of DE Jevon Kearse will be huge. Be careful with playing the Eagles DST in Week 3. As far as IDP players are concerned, Hanson, Wynn and Fox shouldn't be expected in Week 3 to post huge numbers.
News: Just two games into the season, the Eagles' secondary is decimated by injuries. Lito Sheppard, an All-Pro cornerback two years ago, sprained his ankle in the first series of the season opener and won't play on Sunday. Backup Rod Hood left at halftime last week with a heel strain. He is doubtful. Joselio Hanson will start; Hanson played for Frankfurt in NFL Europe last year. Dexter Wynn, a sixth-round pick in 2004 who was among the final cuts after playing two season with the Eagles, would take over in nickel situations. Dustin Fox, who spent last year on injured reserve with Minnesota, was promoted from the practice squad to be the fourth cornerback. "It's what we are," defensive coordinator Jim Johnson said. "Other guys have to pick it up. Hopefully we get a good pass rush and other guys make plays. We're not making excuses. We're not fretting about it."
Analysis: Without Kearse, and without a complete secondary, Philadelphia's defense could be at risk against an up-and-coming 49ers offense in Week 3; between the injuries and the matchup on the road, this isn't a slam-dunk Fantasy choice. Consider all options before settling with the Eagles defense.
News: Eagles coach Andy Reid said Wednesday that CB Rod Hood is doubtful for Week 3 at San Francisco with a heel strain. Hood did not practice Wednesday. "(Joselio) Hanson did some good things in the game and he'll get better every week that he has an opportunity to play in the system," Reid said of his depleted CB corps. "Obviously, he'd be the guy that is in there if Rod can't go. And Dexter (Wynn) gets another week under his belt with practice. And (Dustin) Fox is learning right now. He'll have an opportunity to do some things there." Reid also said that DE Trent Cole is good enough to play with the first team and will line up on his natural side and force DE Darren Howard to play on the other side of the line.
Analysis: Without Kearse, and without a complete secondary, Philadelphia's defense could be at risk against an up-and-coming 49ers offense in Week 3; between the injuries and the matchup on the road, this isn't a slam-dunk Fantasy choice. Consider all options before settling with the Eagles defense.
9/19/2006
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Kearse iced; Fox signed
News: The Philadelphia Eagles promoted cornerback Dustin Fox from the practice squad on Tuesday and placed defensive end Jevon Kearse on injured reserve. Fox was a third-round draft pick by Minnesota in 2005, but spent his entire rookie season on injured reserve with a broken arm. Fox posted 217 tackles, seven interceptions and six forced fumbles during a four-year career at Ohio State. He was originally signed to the Eagles' practice squad on Sept. 4.
Analysis: Fox provides depth at a position where the Eagles have been weakened by injuries. Starter Lito Sheppard (ankle) missed Sunday's game and likely won't play this week against San Francisco, and backup Rod Hood (heel) missed the second half against the Giants. Without Kearse, and without a complete secondary, Philadelphia's defense could be at risk against an up-and-coming 49ers offense in Week 3; between the injuries and the matchup on the road, this isn't a slam-dunk Fantasy choice. Consider all options before settling with the Eagles defense.
9/18/2006
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Kearse out for the season
News: Eagles head coach Andy Reid said Monday that DE Jevon Kearse has a "severe knee injury," the extent of which was not made available, but later reports say he is out for the season. Kearse hurt his left knee in Week 2 vs. the Giants and had to be carted into the locker room. Reid did not immediately name a replacement. The coach also gave updates on CB Rod Hood (heel strain) and CB Lito Sheppard (ankle sprain)
Analysis: This definitely clouds a brilliant outing from the Eagles defense that helped the team clamp down on the Giants for close to four quarters. Without Kearse, the defensive line is not as imposing to quarterbacks they play against. Philadelphia's defense will face an up-and-coming 49ers offense in Week 3; between the Kearse injury and the matchup on the road, this isn't a slam-dunk Fantasy choice. Consider all options before settling with the Eagles defense.
9/17/2006
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Eagles D sacks Eli eight times
News: The Philadelphia Eagles sacked Eli Manning eight times in Week 2. They also intercepted one of his passes, but allowed 30 points and 404 yards of total offense in the game.
Analysis: Despite a meltdown in the fourth quarter in which they let a 17-point lead evaporate, the Eagles did look impressive through three quarters and they followed up their Week 1 output of 16 sacks with eight more against the Giants. Consider them a strong No. 2 Fantasy DST worth using as a bye-week replacement against almost anybody in the NFL.
9/15/2006
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Eagles D gears up for Giants
News: The Eagles used their one-linebacker, six-defensive back alignment on just about every passing down in Week 1 against Houston and will likely do the same thing in Week 2 against the Giants. The Eagles take all of their starting linebackers out and insert nickel linebacker Shawn Barber. Free safety Brian Dawkins moves up closer to the line as a quasi-linebacker. With Dawkins up in the box, defensive coordinator Jim Johnson can use him both as a blitzer and a coverage guy against both opposing tight ends and wide receivers. Dawkins likely will be on Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey in most passing situations Sunday.
Analysis: The Eagles D played alright in Week 1 against the Texans, but alright is not going to cut it against the Giants. Philadelphia's defense took a hit when it was announced CB Lito Sheppard is out against the Giants. Owners should consider other options before settling on the Eagles as their defensive unit for Week 2 action. They're not a terrible choice, but they're not optimal, either.
9/11/2006
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Eagles to play without Sheppard?
News: Eagles head coach Andy Reid updated the media on the status of CB Lito Sheppard, who hurt his ankle at Houston in Week 1. "Lito has a pretty significantly sprained ankle," Reid said. "He'll most likely not play this week and we'll just take it from there. It's not a high ankle sprain. It's on the inside of his ankle and it is fairly significant. It is the opposite ankle of the one he had surgery on." Reid also said that LB Jeremiah Trotter had a slightly sprained ankle but that he'll be fine for the game.
Analysis: Philadelphia's defense will take a hit if Sheppard is out against the Giants, who will spread the football around. Owners should consider other options before settling on the Eagles as their defensive unit for Week 2 action. They're not a terrible choice, but they're not optimal, either.
9/10/2006
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Eagles sink claws into Texans
News: The Eagles defense totaled five sacks -- two for Trent Cole and one each for safety Michael Lewis, DE Jevon Kearse and DE Juqua Thomas. In addition, LB Matt McCoy forced a fumble and led the team with seven solo tackles (eight total). LB Jeremiah Trotter totaled nine tackles (six solo). Also, Eagles CB Lito Sheppard injured his ankle in the first quarter and did not return. However, x-rays were negative.
Analysis: The Eagles DST unit should be considered a risky start vs. the N.Y. Giants in Week 2 since New York's offense is significantly stronger than Houston's. DE Jevon Kearse and LB Jeremiah Trotter are reliable defensive starters for IDP Fantasy leagues, so keep them on staff if you have them.
9/6/2006
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Philly's D heading for Houston
News: The Eagles' main offseason focus was improving a defense that slipped from second to 27th in points allowed and second to 26th in quarterback sacks last year. They signed free agent DE Darren Howard in March and then spent their first-round pick in the April draft on DT Brodrick Bunkley. Howard, Bunkley and the rest of the No. 1 defense has had an exceptional preseason, allowing just three points in 10 series. "Hopefully, we're going to continue what we're doing in the preseason," defensive coordinator Jim Johnson said. "I see a lot of good depth with our line. We didn't have that depth last year and it affected us. We're putting a lot of pressure on the quarterback. So hopefully, we keep that up. With that pressure comes turnovers."
Analysis: The Eagles defense is one that is on the rise in Fantasy circles, and one that is worth using in Week 1 at Houston. Start them if you can get your hands on them.
8/26/2006
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Eagles cut four defensive players
News: The Philadelphia Eagles released CB Matthew Clark, DL Edward Jasper, CB Brandon Pinderhughes and SS Scott Ware on Saturday.
Analysis: Philly's DST is regarded as one of the best in Fantasy Football, so the loss of these four defensive players is not a huge loss.
8/21/2006
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Sixteen sacks for Philly DST
News: Through three preseason games, the Eagles defense has recorded 16 sacks! They've also pulled in three interceptions and rank seventh in the NFL in total defense this preseason.
Analysis: Philly's DST is regarded as one of the best in Fantasy Football, but tough competition in the NFC East and a lack of upgraded talent this offseason could change that. Look for them to get some turnovers but not hold opponents out of the end zone. Consider them a strong No. 2 Fantasy DST worth using as a bye-week replacement against almost anybody in the NFL.
8/4/2006
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DT Bunkley joins Eagles
News: Defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley agreed to a six-year contract with the Eagles, ending the first-round pick's two-week holdout. Bunkley, the 14th pick in the NFL draft, missed 16 days of camp. The 6-foot-2, 300-pound defensive tackle won't play in Sunday's game against Oakland. The Eagles selected Bunkley to fill a glaring need in the middle of a line that hardly generated a strong rush on quarterbacks last season. At Florida State, Bunkley proved to be a versatile player who can rush the passer and stuff the run. He had nine sacks, 66 tackles and two fumble recoveries as a senior. Eagles head coach Andy Reid and defensive coordinator Jim Johnson were concerned that Bunkley's absence from camp would delay his progress. One bright spot is that tackle is the easiest position to learn in Johnson's complex system.
Analysis: Bunkley will eventually help with the team's depth at defensive line. This was an expected signing to begin with, so he's not going to help nor hurt the value of the Eagles DST. They should be considered a top-20 unit worth using as a bye-week replacement during the season.
5/24/2006
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Grasmanis retires from Eagles
News: Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Paul Grasmanis retired, ending a 10-year NFL career filled with injuries. He played just eight games over the last three seasons, missing most of 2003 and 2005 with a torn Achilles' tendon.
Analysis: Grasmanis' presence did not make or break the Eagles DST. Consider Philadelphia a low-end DST option on Draft Day this summer.
4/30/2006
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Philadelphia drafts DT Brodrick Bunkley
News: The Philadelphia Eagles selected Florida State DT Brodrick Bunkley with the No. 14 overall selection in the 2006 NFL Draft.
Analysis: Bunkley will come in and assist the Eagles and their defense against the run. He has little IDP value, but the Eagles defense is still worth a late-round choice.
3/13/2006
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Eagles land DE Darren Howard
News: According to reports, the Philadelphia Eagles have signed DE Darren Howard to a six-year, $30.5 million contract, including $10.5 million in guarantees.
Analysis: Howard missed much of last season due to an injured knee, but he can be a productive option at 100 percent health.
3/9/2006
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Eagles add LB Shawn Barber
News: The Philadelphia Eagles have signed LB Shawn Barber to a one-year contract.He played in a mere three games last season after tearing his ACL in 2004, and was Philadelphia's second-leading tackle in 2002. The team also re-signed DE Juqua Thomas to a one-year contract.
Analysis: The Eagles DST should be a top 10-15 unit next season and will be worth a late-round selection in most 2006 drafts.
1/17/2006
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Eagles DST allows 388 points
News: The Eagles DST recorded 17 interceptions, 29 sacks, 10 fumble recoveries, three TDs and allowed 388 points (24.2 PPG) this season.
Analysis: The Eagles DST should be a top 10-15 unit next season and will be worth a late-round selection in most 2006 drafts.
12/24/2005
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Eagles DST allows 27
News: The Eagles DST allowed 27 points on Arizona in Week 16. They registered one INT and two sacks.
Analysis: Despite being motivated to play, the Eagles DST are not recommended vs. Washington in Week 17.
12/22/2005
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CB Sheldon Brown questionable
News: CB Sheldon Brown (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 16 at Arizona. LB Dedrick Roper (abdomen) and DE Juqua Thomas (hand) are both probable.
Analysis: The Eagles DST remains a nice choice against QB Josh McCown and the Cardinals.
12/18/2005
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One pick for Philly
News: The Eagles DST had one interception of Ryan Fitzpatrick at St. Louis in Week 15. That's all; no sacks and no fumbles.
Analysis: The Eagles DST shouldn't be used at Arizona in Week 16.
12/12/2005
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Eagles allow 437 yards
News: The Philadelphia Eagles allowed 437 yards in Week 14 vs. the N.Y. Giants. They gave up 26 points.
Analysis: The Eagles DST face St. Louis in Week 15.
12/8/2005
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Jeremiah Trotter probable
News: LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee) is listed as probable for Week 14 against the N.Y. Giants. S Michael Lewis (hip) and LB Dedrick Roper (elbow) are also probable.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is not a recommended option in most leagues.
12/6/2005
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Eagles get crushed on MNF
News: The Eagles DST allowed 21 points to Seattle in Week 13. However, the Seahawks beat the Eagles 42-0 with three scores coming off Philly turnovers. The Eagled DST did not record a single sack or INT.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is not a recommended option in Week 14 vs. the Giants.
11/30/2005
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Eagles set to face tough 'Hawks
News: DT Sam Rayburn (shoulder) and LB Dedrick Roper (elbow/hamstring) are listed as questionable against Seattle Monday.
Analysis: The Seattle offense is a tough one and they should do well against Philadelphia. Consider other options for this week.
11/28/2005
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Eagles DST hold G.B. to 14
News: The Eagles DST held Green Bay to 14 points in Week 12. They registered two INTs and a sack in the process.
Analysis: Despite the solid performance, the Eagles DST are not recommended against the high-powered Seattle offense in Week 13.
11/22/2005
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Sheppard out for the season
News: Lito Sheppard was placed on I-R on Tuesday by the Philadelphia Eagles. He will miss the remainder of the season.
Analysis: Sheppard should be benched in dynasty leagues and cut in seasonal formats. Consider other options before using the banged-up Eagles DST vs. Green Bay in Week 12.
News: Eagles head coach Andy Reid told the media after Week 11 that CB Lito Sheppard would likely miss the rest of the season with a "severe high-ankle sprain." It will require surgery.
Analysis: Sheppard's absence further depletes the Philadelphia defense. Using them on a weekly basis is not advised, but if the matchup is right (against a bad passing team), they are still useful.
11/20/2005
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Eagles D torched by Giants
News: The Philadelphia Eagles allowed 315 yards and 27 points at the N.Y. Giants in Week 11. They recorded five sacks, but failed to force a turnover.
Analysis: The Eagles DST has been struggling of late, as have the rest of the Eagles. They will face Green Bay in Week 12.
11/17/2005
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Michael Lewis probable
News: S Michael Lewis (rib) is listed as probable for Week 11 at New York against the Giants. LB Keith Adams (shoulder), S Brian Dawkins (eye), CB Rod Hood (heel), DE N.D. Kalu (shoulder), LB Dedrick Roper (ankle) and LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee) are also probable.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is not a recommended option in leagues with 12 or fewer teams.
11/16/2005
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Michael Lewis hurt
News: According to reports, S Michael Lewis suffered both a rib contusion and a concussion in Week 10. Eagles head coach Andy Reid said the rib contusion is more of a concern. In other news, the status of DE N.D. Kalu (shoulder) for Week 11 is uncertain. LB Jeremiah Trotter has knee inflammation that does not appear to be serious.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is not a recommended option in most leagues against the N.Y. Giants.
11/15/2005
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Eagles DST allows 21 points
News: The Eagles DST allowed 14 points (and seven on an INT return by S Roy Williams) and 241 total net yards in Week 10 against the Cowboys. They also had two sacks and an interception.
Analysis: The Eagles will look to get back on track and corral Eli Manning in New York in Week 11.
11/11/2005
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Eagles DST risky start
News: DE Ndukwe Kalu (shoulder) is listed as doubtful for Week 10 vs. Dallas while CB Sheldon Brown (shoulder), CB Roderick Hood, (heel) and DE Jevon Kearse (shoulder) are all listed as probable.
Analysis: The Eagles have been banged up defensively all season, which could make them a questionable start in Week 10 vs. division rival Dallas.
11/10/2005
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Dawkins listed as probable
News: Brian Dawkins (foot), CB Sheldon Brown (shoulder), DE Jevon Kearse (shoulder) and LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee) are all listed as probable for Week 10 against the Dallas Cowboys.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is not a recommended option against the 'Boys.
11/7/2005
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Eagles DST improves from Week 8
News: Philly's defense performed well in Sunday night's loss to the Redskins, especially considering the beating they took in Denver the week prior. The unit registered two sacks and forced a fumble.
Analysis: The Eagles host the Cowboys next Monday night. It should be a low-scoring divisional battle, so consider the unit a solid starting option.
11/3/2005
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Eagles D banged up along line
News: DE Jevon Kearse, DE N.D. Kalu and DT Sam Rayburn are listed as questionable for Sunday's game with shoulder injuries. If they can't play, the Eagles will have a major numbers problem up front. LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee), DT Darwin Walker (thigh), LB Zeke Moreno (groin), LB Jason Short (ankle), CB Lito Sheppard (knee) and S Michael Lewis (quad) are listed as probable.
Analysis: The Eagles are a little banged up and struggling defensively right now, which could affect your Fantasy lineup decision in a crucial division road contest.
10/31/2005
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DE Kearse leaves game early
News: Kearse, along with CB Lito Sheppard (knee), S Michael Lewis (bruised quadriceps) and DT Sam Rayburn (stinger) are among the Eagles' walking wounded on the defensive side of the ball. The Eagles are reeling after Sunday's blowout. They'll need these guys back, especially Kearse, in order to stifle the Redskins in Week 10.
Analysis: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Jevon Kearse left Sunday's game against Denver with a shoulder sprain and was unable to return. Kearse suffered a sprained AC joint, X-rays were negative, but he will get an MRI Monday.
10/31/2005
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Eagles DST can't slow Denver
News: The normally reliable Philly defense was torched in Sunday's 49-21 loss in Denver, allowing two 100-yard rushers and four TD passes. They registered just one sack and no turnovers.
Analysis: Phill faces another tough test in Week 9 at Washington. They should turn it around and put forth a solid effort.
10/23/2005
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Eagles DST scores TD
News: The Eagles DST allowed 17 points and recorded one touchdown (DB Matt Ware), three interceptions and two interceptions in Sunday's 20-17 win over the San Diego Chargers.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 8 on the road against the Denver Broncos.
10/21/2005
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Eagles revamp special teams
News: The Eagles are considering a number of moves to bolster their struggling special teams for Sunday's game against San Diego. Rookie RB Ryan Moats is taking reps returning kickoffs, and RB Brian Westbrook and CB Lito Sheppard both are taking reps returning punts. Andy Reid also is considering putting some of his starters on the coverage and return units, including Pro Bowl middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, cornerback Sheldon Brown and wide receiver Greg Lewis.
Analysis: The Eagles are a decent Fantasy DST start in Week 7 despite the matchup vs. LaDainian Tomlinson and the Chargers. They Eagles are unbeaten with Donovan McNabb coming off a bye and being at home certainly will help.
10/18/2005
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McDougle has hernia surgery
News: Jerome McDougle had emergency surgery for a hernia, a setback to his recovery from a gunshot wound in July. "It's an unfortunate setback for Jerome," Eagles coach Andy Reid said. "It's a shame because he's worked extremely hard over the past several weeks to return to the practice field. After today's events, that obviously won't happen anytime soon. We wish him all the best in his recovery from this surgery."
Analysis: McDougle might be out for a large portion of the season. He is no certainty to have an impact on the Eagles' defense or Fantasy IDP leagues.
10/9/2005
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Eagles DST drummed in Dallas
News: The Eagles defense allowed 33 points and 456 total net yards in Week 5 at Dallas. The Eagles also had no sacks or intereceptions and only one fumble recovery.
Analysis: The Eagles have a week to regroup thanks to the bye before returning in Week 6 to host LaDainian Tomlinson and the Chargers.
10/5/2005
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Eagles have injury woes on defense
News: DE Jerome McDougle has been working with the strength and conditioning coaches and is eligible to come off the physically unable to perform list and practice after next week's bye. McDougle's return will make the Eagles' top-notch Fantasy defense even better. They are a little banged up with S Brian Dawkins (ankle), LB Jeremiah Trotter (quad), DT Darwin Walker (thigh), DE Trent Cole (hamstring) in question for Week 5 at Dallas. Also, DT Paul Grasmanis (Achilles') is out for the season.
Analysis: Regardless, the Eagles are viable Fantasy DST any week, against any opponent. Start them with only mild hesitation in Week 5 at Dallas. If you want an alternative off the waiver wire, consider the Lions defense. They play host to the offensively inept Ravens in Week 5.
10/4/2005
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Grasmanis lost for the season
News: Defensive tackle Paul Grasmanis was placed on IR after tearing his right Achilles' tendon in Sunday's victory at Kansas City. The Eagles signed DT Jason Jefferson to the practice squad. Jefferson was a sixth-round draft pick by New Orleans this year, and also spent time on Chicago's practice squad.
Analysis: This is the second time Grasmanis has torn his Achilles'. Despite the loss, the Eagles defense remains a top unit in Fantasy leagues, because of sacks, takeaways and its stingy with points allowed.
10/2/2005
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Eagles DST allows 31 points
News: The Philadelphia defense allowed 31 points and 353 total net yards in Week 4 at Kansas City. The Eagles had three sacks, two interceptions and one fumble recovery. They also had a 40-yard interception return for touchdown by DB Sheldon Brown.
Analysis: The Eagles defense remains a must-start despite a shaky performance in Week 4. They will meet the Cowboys in Dallas in Week 5.
9/25/2005
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Eagles DST held in check
News: Surprisingly, Philly's defense racked up a single sack -- and that's all vs. Oakland in Week 3.
Analysis: The Eagles will be in for a rougher outing at Kansas City in Week 4. You may want to consider another matchup.
9/18/2005
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Eagles DST dominates 49ers
News: Philadelphia's DST picked off Tim Rattay three times, recorded three sacks and held the Niners to three points in their Week 2 win vs. San Francisco.
Analysis: The Eagles DST will have their hands full in Week 3 when they host Oakland.
9/16/2005
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Douglas named "team ambassador"
News: The Eagles have named former DE Hugh Douglas as team ambassador for the 2005 season. He will make appearances all over Eastern Pennsylvania on behalf of the Eagles. "I am excited to remain a part of the Eagles family," said Douglas in a statement. "This city has always felt like home and the fans have always treated me so well. Now I have the opportunity to start something new with the team that I love and still be able to work on various opportunities as they come along."
Analysis: Sounds like Douglas' career could be over as he enters into the world of public relations. Still, the Eagles DST is a must-start in Week 2 against San Francisco.
9/16/2005
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Douglas named "team ambassador"
News: The Eagles have named former DE Hugh Douglas as team ambassador for the 2005 season. He will make appearances all over Eastern Pennsylvania on behalf of the Eagles. "I am excited to remain a part of the Eagles family," said Douglas in a statement. "This city has always felt like home and the fans have always treated me so well. Now I have the opportunity to start something new with the team that I love and still be able to work on various opportunities as they come along."
Analysis: Sounds like Douglas' career could be over as he enters into the world of public relations. Still, the Eagles DST is a must-start in Week 2 against San Francisco.
9/13/2005
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Eagles DST solid in opener
News: The Eagles defense allowed 14 points and 319 total net yards in Week 1 at Atlanta. They also had four sacks, an interception and two fumble recoveries.
Analysis: The Eagles were outstanding despite the loss. They are a must-start in Week 2 against San Francisco.
9/12/2005
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LB Trotter ejected before game
News: LB Jeremiah Trotter has been ejected from Monday's game at Atlanta in Week 1 due to a pregame incident with Kevin Mathis of the Falcons.
Analysis: In a pair of pregame incidents on the field, a shoving match ensued. Mathis and Trotter have been ejected from the game. The Eagles will have a bit more difficulty stopping the run with their best linebacker out of the mix, but the team should still have decent Fantasy value.
9/3/2005
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Hugh Douglas released
News: The Philadelphia Eagles have released veteran DE Hugh Douglas.
Analysis: The Eagles DST remains a nice option in drafts.
News: The Daily News reports Jerome McDougle (abdomen) will not be ready to play until "game 5, 6 somewhere in that area," according to head coach Andy Reid.
Analysis: McDougle, who was shot in the abdomen July 28, could go on the PUP list and not count against the team's 53-man roster until mid-October.
8/28/2005
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Eagles "unfranchise" Corey Simon
News: The Philadelphia Eagles have withdrawn their franchise tender offer to Corey Simon, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Analysis: Look for Simon to draw plenty of attention on the free-agent market.
8/17/2005
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T.O. hurts CB Brown accidentally
News: Eagles head coach Andy Reid told the media that CB Sheldon Brown suffered a laceration in his leg after colliding with Terrell Owens in practice Aug. 17. "He should be fine," Reid said.
Analysis: Brown will be OK, and the Eagles' DST remains one of the better starting units in Fantasy Football.
8/2/2005
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Eagles DT Simon holds out
News: Updating previous reports, Eagles DT Corey Simon did not show up to training camp on time and is holding out for a new contract.
Analysis: Simon's absence is the latest hit to the Eagles' defensive line, which has lost DE Jerome McDougle this preseason already thanks to a gunshot wound. Philly's DST unit is still desirable, but should not be the first or second one selected in drafts.
7/30/2005
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DE McDougle out four weeks
News: Philadelphia Eagles DE Jerome McDougle is expected to miss at least four weeks while recovering from a gunshot wound, the team said Saturday. McDougle was shot in the stomach by armed robbers late Thursday night in southwest Miami, police said Friday.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is still worth selection in Fantasy leagues as a No. 1 unit.
7/29/2005
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Eagles' McDougle in fair condition
News: Eagles defensive end Jerome McDougle was shot on July 29 during a robbery attempt, according to Miami police. He has been upgraded to fair condition at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
Analysis: McDougle was expected to make an impact this season for the Eagles. Combined with Corey Simon's expected holdout, Philly's defensive line could be in some trouble as it enters training camp. Be sure to monitor this situation.
7/29/2005
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Eagles DE McDougle shot
News: Eagles defensive end Jerome McDougle was shot on July 29 during a robbery attempt, according to Miami police. He was listed in critical condition following the incident.
Analysis: McDougle was expected to make an impact this season for the Eagles. Combined with Corey Simon's expected holdout, Philly's defensive line could be in some trouble as it enters training camp. Be sure to monitor this situation.
7/26/2005
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Simon looks like a hold out
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer & Daily News reports Corey Simon is not expected to show up to Eagles training camp soon. Under league rules, the unsigned "franchise" player has no obligation to show up until he signs his contract.
Analysis: Since there are no financial ramifications involved in this situation, it wouldn't be a shock to see Simon holdout until near the end of camp. The Eagles DST remains a nice option in drafts.
7/25/2005
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Eagles lock up DT Patterson
News: The Eagles signed DT Mike Patterson, the 31st pick overall in the 2005 draft, to a five-year contract on Monday.
Analysis: Patterson is expected to replace DT Corey Simon some day. Right now, he will provide depth along the Philadelphia defensive line. The Eagles are a top 10 Fantasy defense whose value is only strengthened by the addition of more talented depth.
3/4/2005
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Eagles retain LB Trotter
News: According to reports, Jeremiah Trotter has reached a contract agreement with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Analysis: Trotter, 28, recorded 61 total tackles and one interception last season.
3/4/2005
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Eagles retain DE Douglas
News: Hugh Douglas has agreed to a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. "It was really important for me to be back with this group of guys here in Philadelphia," Douglas said in a statement. "This is a special place to play, there's no question about that."
Analysis: Douglas battled injuries last season, recording 19 tackles and three sacks in spot duty as the backup to Derrick Burgess.
1/27/2005
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Simoneau returns to practice
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports LB Mark Simoneau (ankle) returned to practice Wednesday and should be ready for Super Bowl XXXIX.
Analysis: LB Keith Adams could be headed back to reserve role in the big game.
1/21/2005
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Simoneau might be out
News: The Philadelphia Enquirer reports Mark Simoneau (ankle) could miss the NFC Championship. "I think I just have to feel comfortable, and I really don't want to say much more than that about the injuries," Simoneau said.
Analysis: Fellow LB Keith Adams would start in his absence.
1/12/2005
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Simoneau listed as doubtful
News: The Eagles official website reports Eagles LB Mark Simoneau (ankle) is doubtful for Sunday's postseason game vs. Minnesota.
Analysis: LBs Keith Adams and Nate Wayne will see additional action in Simoneau's absence.
1/4/2005
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Thomas to return for Eagles
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports DT Hollis Thomas (elbow) is expected to play in the Eagles' first postseason game.
Analysis: In other news, DE Derrick Burgess is also expected to return from an injured sternum.
12/20/2004
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Thomas, Burgess out
News: DL Hollis Thomas (elbow) has been ruled out for Week 16.
Analysis: In other news, DE Derrick Burgess (sternum) has also been ruled out.
12/19/2004
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Eagles allow seven points
News: The Eagles DST allowed seven points with three sacks and two interceptions in Sunday's win over Dallas.
Analysis: This unit is a nice option for Week 16 at St. Louis.
12/16/2004
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DE Hugh Douglas probable
News: The Eagles official website reports Douglas (shoulder) is listed as probable for Week 15.
Analysis: In other news, LB Keith Adams (stinger) is also listed as probable.
12/14/2004
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LB Nate Wayne OUT
News: The Eagles official website reports Wayne (hamstring) has been ruled OUT for Week 15.
Analysis: In other news, DE Derrick Burgess (sternum) has also been ruled OUT. DT Hollis Thomas (elbow) will miss three to six weeks.
12/10/2004
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DE McDougle doubtful
News: Jerome McDougle (knee) did not practice on Friday and is listed as doubtful for Week 14.
Analysis: In other news, DE Hugh Douglas (shoulder) and CB Matt Ware (knee) practiced and will be active.
12/7/2004
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DE Derrick Burgess OUT
News: Burgess will miss the rest of the regular season with a chest injury. X-rays were negative, but a CT scan and MRI revealed a separation in the sternum that is expected to keep Burgess sidelined four to six weeks.
Analysis: Veteran DE Hugh Douglas will replace Burgess in the starting lineup, with DT Darwin Walker also shifting over to end at times.
12/6/2004
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Burgess out for year
News: Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Derrick Burgess will miss the rest of the regular season with a chest injury.
Analysis: Hugh Douglas will replace Burgess in the starting lineup. The Eagles face the Redskins in Week 14.
12/3/2004
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McDougle out vs. Packers
News: According to the Eagles official website, DE Jerome McDougle (knee) has been downgraded from doubtful to OUT for Week 13.
Analysis: In other news, KR Reno Mahe (ankle) has also been downgraded from doubtful to OUT.
11/28/2004
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Eagles allow six points
News: The Eagles DST allowed six points with four sacks, two interceptions and one forced fumble in Sunday's win over the Giants.
Analysis: This unit is a nice option for Week 13 vs. Green Bay.
11/22/2004
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Eagles clamp down on Redskins
News: Philadelphia held Washington to only six points, 51 rushing yards and 162 passing yards Sunday.
Analysis: The Eagles DST should be a great start against a rookie quarterback at the Giants in Week 12.
News: phillyBurbs.com reports LBs Nate Wayne (hamstring) and Mark Simoneau (concussion) missed practice Thursday. LB Keith Adams practiced but is questionable for Week 11 with an ankle injury. Ike Reese will likely start at Simoneau's weak-side spot against Washington.
Analysis: In other news, DE Jerome McDougle (knee) and DT Corey Simon (groin) also missed practice. McDougle is out and Simon is questionable.
11/18/2004
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DE McDougle out
News: The Eagles official website reports DE Jerome McDougle (knee) is out for Week 11.
Analysis: In other news, LB Nate Wayne is doubtful.
11/17/2004
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Several Eagles day to day
News: According to reports, LB Mark Simoneau (concussion), LB Nate Wayne (hamstring), DT Corey Simon (groin) and DE Jerome McDougle (knee) are all listed as day to day.
Analysis: The Eagles DST remains a nice option for Week 11.
11/16/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: The Philadelphia Eagles had a number of players nicked up in Monday's night rout of the Cowboys in Dallas. LB Mark Simoneau suffered a concussion, but is listed as day to day. He is expected to miss at least Wednesday's practice.
Analysis: In other news, LB Nate Wayne suffered a strained hamstring and is considered day to day. Coach Andy Reid did not sound optimistic about his chance of playing in Week 11 against Washington. DT Corey Simon is also nursing a strained groin and is day to day. DE Jerome McDougle is also suffering from a sprained knee and is day to day. The Eagles are still a recommended play against Patrick Ramsey and the Redskins.
11/16/2004
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Eagles D allows 21 points
News: The Philadelphia Eagles defense allowed 21 points and 317 total net yards to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 10.
Analysis: DB Brian Dawkins (forearm) was able to play. He made one solo tackle in the game. S J.R. Reed (hamstring) was inactive. The highlight of the night for the defense was a 101-yard Lito Sheppard interception for score. The Redskins visit in Week 11.
11/12/2004
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LB Trotter to start?
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports LB Jeremiah Trotter might replace Mark Simoneau as the Eagles top middle linebacker. "We'll see as we go through this week," coach Andy Reid said. "It depends on what combination we use."
Analysis: In other news, DT Sam Rayburn returned to practice Thursday.
11/11/2004
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Dawkins listed as probable
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports S Brian Dawkins (forearm), LB Dhani Jones (ankle), DT Corey Simon (calf) and CB Dexter Wynn (hamstring) are probable for Week 10.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a nice option at Dallas.
11/7/2004
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Eagles allow 27 points
News: The Eagles DST allowed 27 points with two sacks and one interception in Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Expect this unit to bounce back in Week 10 at Dallas.
10/29/2004
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DT Walker misses practice
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports DT Darwin Walker (calf) sat out of practice on Thursday. LB Jason Short (concussion) also missed practice and was downgraded from doubtful to out.
Analysis: In other news, defensive coordinator Jim Johnson complimented LB Jeremiah Trotter for the game he played last weekend, but said LB Mark Simoneau would be back in the starting lineup in Week 8.
10/27/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: CB Lito Sheppard was able to practice on Wednesday despite a neck injury. He is probable for Week 8 against the Ravens. DE Jerome McDougal (heart) was also able to practice on Wedensday and is listed as probable.
Analysis: In other news, LBs Dhani Jones (ankle) and Mark Simoneau (foot) were able to practice Wednesday and are listed as probable. DT Darwin Walker (calf) was unable to go on Wednesday and is questionable. LB Jason Short suffered a concussion in Week 7 and is considered doubtful. The Eagles are still a must-start against Kyle Boller and the low-scoring Baltimore offense.
10/25/2004
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Eagles DST getting healthier
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Jerome McDougle (irregular heartbeat) is expected to return to practice this week. Also Mark Simoneau (foot) is expected to play at Baltimore in Week 8.
Analysis: The Eagles DST continues to be one of the top units in Fantasy despite the absence of these two players.
10/24/2004
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Eagles defense lashed by Browns
News: The Philadelphia Eagles defense, without DE Jerome McDougle (irregular heartbeat), allowed 31 points and 394 total net yards in Week 7 at Cleveland.
Analysis: The Eagles defense had three sacks and one interception. CB Lito Shepperd had 10 solo tackles, one pickoff and a pass defensed. The top-tier defensive unit is a fantastic option against Chester Taylor and the Ravens anemic offense in Week 8.
10/24/2004
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LB Simoneau inactive
News: According to reports, LB Mark Simoneau (foot) and DE Jerome McDougle (irregular heartbeat) are inactive for Week 7.
Analysis: In other news, LB Jeremiah Trotter will start in Simoneau's absence.
10/24/2004
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DT Walker probable
News: The Eagles official website reports DT Darwin Walker (calf) is listed as probable for Week 7.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a nice option at Cleveland.
10/23/2004
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McDougle has irregular heartbeat
News: Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Jerome McDougle missed practice Friday because of an irregular heartbeat and is doubtful for Week 7 against Cleveland.
Analysis: McDougle is apparently fine now but will likely miss the game against Cleveland to be on the safe side.
10/22/2004
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Trotter to start in Week 7
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Jeremiah Trotter is expected to start in the absence of Mark Simoneau (foot), who is questionable for Week 7.
Analysis: In other news, CB Dexter Wynn (hamstring) and LB Jason Short (ankle) are also questionable. CB Roderick Hood (Achilles') is probable.
10/21/2004
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LB Simoneau misses practice
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, LB Mark Simoneau sat out of practice Wednesday and is expected to miss practice again Thursday with a sprained foot. "He should be ready for the game," coach Andy Reid said. "In the meantime, Jeremiah Trotter is going to fill in at that spot."
Analysis: In other news, CB Roderick Hood (Achilles), LB Jason Short (ankle) and CB Dexter Wynn (hamstring) are probable for Week 7.
10/19/2004
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Simoneau sprains foot
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports LB Mark Simoneau did not play the final eight minutes in Week 6 because of a sprained foot."He woke up this morning with a sore foot," coach Andy Reid said. "He's had an X-ray and an MRI, and it's more of a sprain. We'll just see how he does for practice. He probably won't practice on Wednesday, but we'll see how he does in the next day."
Analysis: Simoneau's status for Week 7 is uncertain, though there's a decent chance he'll start at Cleveland.
10/17/2004
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Eagles D shuts down Panthers
News: The Philadelphia defense allowed 283 net yards and eight points in Week 6 against Carolina. DB Lito Shepperd had a 64-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Eagles remain a top Fantasy option in all leagues. They should again produce solid numbers in Week 7 at Cleveland.
10/15/2004
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DT Simon to return Friday
News: phillyBurbs.com reports DT Corey Simon is expected back on Friday after missing two days for personal reasons.
Analysis: In other news, Dexter Wynn (hamstring) is doubtful for Week 6.
10/13/2004
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Matt Ware to get first start
News: Eagles rookie corner Matt Ware will make his first NFL start on Sunday in place of an injured Dexter Wynn against the Carolina Panthers.
Analysis: The Eagles remain a quality Fantasy option against the Panthers.
10/3/2004
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Eagles limit Bears
News: The Philadelphia Eagles limited the Bears to just nine points in a Week 4 victory.
Analysis: The Eagles are worth using as a Fantasy defense in all leagues. Philadelphia has a bye in Week 5 and faces Carolina in Week 6.
9/30/2004
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DT Grasmanis probable
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Paul Grasmanis (Achilles tendon), Greg Lewis (hamstring), Michael Lewis (stinger), Jerome McDougle (groin), Lito Sheppard (thumb), Mark Simoneau (ankle) and Darwin Walker (calf) are all probable for Week 4.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a good option in Week 4 at Chicago.
9/26/2004
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DE Kearse posts three sacks
News: DE Jevon Kearse posted three sacks in Sunday's win over Detroit. The Eagles DST finished with four sacks, one forced fumble and held the Lions to 13 points.
Analysis: This unit should remain active for Week 4 at Chicago.
9/24/2004
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DE McDougle misses practice
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, DE Jerome McDougle (groin) and DT Darwin Walker (calf) missed practice on Thursday and remain questionable for Week 3. "We'll probably know more [Friday]," defensive coordinator Jim Johnson said. "I think they need to practice to find out for sure."
Analysis: In other news, DT Paul Grasmanis (Achilles) practiced for a second straight day and continues to be on course to play at Detroit.
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer DE Jerome McDougle (groin) is listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 3. Starting DT Darwin Walker is also listed as questionable because of a strained calf muscle.
Analysis: In other news, the Eagles do expect to have DT Paul Grasmanis back Sunday from a strained Achilles tendon and knee injury.
9/22/2004
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DT Grasmanis might return
News: phillyBurbs.com reports Paul Grasmanis (Achilles') might be ready to play in Week 3.
Analysis: The Eagles DST is a good option for owners at Detroit.
9/21/2004
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Nate Wayne forces two fumbles
News: The Eagles defense held Minnesota to 16 points and forced two turnovers on Monday Night Football. Nate Wayne led the charge with seven tackles, two forced fumbles and a sack.
Analysis: The Eagles will face the up-and-coming Detroit Lions in Week 3. They are solid Fantasy option in this matchup.
9/19/2004
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DT Paul Grasmanis out
News: According to the Eagles official website, Grasmanis (Achilles') will not play in Week 2.
Analysis: In other news, probables include DE Hugh Douglas (shoulder), LB Dhani Jones (ankle), S Michael Lewis (quad), DT Sam Rayburn (ankle) and LB Ike Reese (knee).
9/17/2004
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DT Gramanis won't play
News: phillyBurbs.com reports DT Paul Grasmanis (Achilles') is listed as doubtful and likely won't play in Week 2. Also on the injured list are CB Lito Sheppard (thumb) and LB Nate Wayne (hamstring).
Analysis: Other probables are DE Hugh Douglas (shoulder), LB Dhani Jones (ankle), S Michael Lewis (quad), DT Sam Rayburn (ankle) and LB Ike Reese (knee).
9/16/2004
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Several Eagles probable
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, DT Paul Grasmanis missed practice with a sore Achilles tendon and knee and is listed as doubtful for Week 2. DE Hugh Douglas (shoulder), LB Dhani Jones (ankle), DB Michael Lewis (quadriceps), DB Sam Rayburn (ankle), DB Ike Reese (knee), DB Lito Sheppard (thumb) and LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) are listed as probable.
Analysis: The Eagles DST remains a decent option in Week 2 despite a difficult matchup against Minnesota.
9/14/2004
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LB Wayne to practice
News: The Eagles official website reports LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) will return to practice this week, but his status for Week 2 is uncertain.
Analysis: In other news, CB Lito Sheppard (thumb) has a "good chance" to play in Week 2 against Minnesota. He will wear a cast on the thumb this week.
9/12/2004
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Eagles rack up five sacks
News: The Eagles racked up five sacks in Week 1 against the Giants. The team also forced one fumble in their 31-17 win.
Analysis: DB Brian Dawkins (knee) was able to play. He had six solo tackles and a pass defensed in the game. DT Corey Simon (foot) was able in the lineup and had one tackle on the day. LB Jeremiah Trotter (ribs) was also able to play, but he did not record a tackle. The defense will be put to the test when the Vikings pay a visit in Week 2.
9/8/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: The following defensive players for Philadelphia are listed on the team's injury report: S Brian Dawkins (knee), LB Dhani Jones (ankle), DT Sam Rayburn (ankle), LB Ike Reese (knee), DT Hollis Thomas (abdominal), LB Jeremiah Trotter (ribs), CB Matt Ware (knee) and LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) are all probable for the opener against the Giants.
Analysis: All of the injuries are considered minor. The Eagles are a solid defensive unit for the team's opener against the Giants.
9/5/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: The following players were unable to play in Friday's preseason finale against the Jets due to injury: DB Brian Dawkins (knee), LB Nate Wayne (hamstring), DL Corey Simon (foot) and LB Jeremiah Trotter (knee).
Analysis: The team's defensive unit remains one of the top options in terms of Fantasy value. They will be a good start against the Giants in Week 1, even if everyone is not able to go.
8/31/2004
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DT Simon returns to practice
News: phillyBurbs.com reports Corey Simon returned to practice Monday. He has been hobbled by a foot problem most of the preseason and hadn't practiced since Aug 16.
Analysis: Simon remains questionable for the team's preseason finale at the New York Jets.
8/30/2004
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DE Douglas back in Philadelphia
News: DE Hugh Douglas signed a one-year contract to return to the Eagles on Monday, hours after being released by the Jaguars.
Analysis: Douglas will fill the void left by N.D. Kalu, who is out for the season due to a knee injury. His addition strengthens an already top Fantasy defensive unit.
8/30/2004
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DB Dawkins returns to practice
News: According to the Trenton Times, Brian Dawkins (knee) practiced on Sunday. LB Jeremiah Trotter also practiced, but LB Nate Wayne (hamstring), DT Paul Grasmanis (knee), DT Corey Simon (foot), DB Quintin Mikell (knee), DT Sam Rayburn (ankle), LB Ike Reese (knee) and CB Matt Ware (knee) were out.
Analysis: The Eagles defense has a glut of injuries, but it still warrants a prominent role on Fantasy teams.
8/27/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: The following players were inactive for Thursday's preseason game against Pittsburgh: FS Brian Dawkins (knee), DT Corey Simon (foot), LB Jeremiah Trotter (ribs) and CB Matt Ware (knee).
Analysis: DT Paul Grasmanis (knee) was able to return, but LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) aggravated his injury and left in the first quarter.
8/26/2004
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DT Simon to return soon
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports DT Corey Simon (foot) expects to return to practice during the week of Aug. 30-Sept. 5. "I'm going to take the next two weeks to really work myself and really stress running around in practice, and I should be all right for the (Sept. 12, regular season game against the New York) Giants." Simon said. "Once you get out there and start running around and push yourself on the field, you can get into football shape rather quickly. It's just about getting out there and guys leaning on you."
Analysis: Simon is expected to be ready for Week 1, barring setbacks.
8/25/2004
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DE Simon out for Thursday
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Corey Simon has plantar fasciitis and will not play Thursday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. "His foot was very inflamed," foot specialist Mark Myerson said. "He'll be back in training next week. He's been immobilized and taken care of."
Analysis: Simon is expected to be ready for Week 1, barring setbacks.
8/24/2004
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DB Dawkins' status uncertain
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Brian Dawkins (knee) might be out until the regular-season opener against the New York Giants.
Analysis: The veteran free safety has returned to the practice field in recent days, although in a limited capacity.
8/23/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: The following players will miss Thursday's preseason game against the Steelers: FS Brian Dawkins, LB Jeremiah Trotter (ribs) and CB Matt Ware (knee).
Analysis: In other news, DT Hollis Thomas woke up on Sunday with a swollen calf. He is now awaiting MRI results and will likely miss the game on Thursday. DT Corey Simon was to practice on Sunday due to a back and foot injury. He is expected to see a foot specialist on Monday.
8/19/2004
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Eagles defense injury update
News: The team's official website reports the following injuries for the team's preseason game on Friday against the Ravens. FS Brian Dawkins (knee), DT Paul Grasmanis (knee), LB Dhani Jones (ankle) and LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) will not play.
Analysis: LB Dhani Jones (ankle), S Quintin Mikell (knee), DT Sam Rayburn (knee), LB Greg Richmond (knee) and CB Matt Ware (knee) are also out for the game. The team is hopeful DE Jerome McDougle (shoulder) will play in the game. The Eagles will again be a top Fantasy defensive unit in most formats.
8/19/2004
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Reed to return kicks
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports rookie J.R. Reed will be the team's kick returner. "J.R. is the guy right now," Eagles coach Andy Reid said. "But we'll see how that goes."
Analysis: Reed still has mush to prove before he locks in the spot for Week 1.
8/18/2004
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Green returns to practice
News: According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Jamaal Green (ankle) was back on the field Tuesday. "Of course it feels good to be out there," Green said. "Nobody wants to be injured or out all the time. I didn't know how bad it was when I did it, but it wasn't as bad as it was last year."
Analysis: The Eagles defense has endured some injuries this week, including the loss of defensive end N.D. Kalu for the season.
8/17/2004
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N.D. Kalu out for season
News: Kalu will miss the entire 2004 season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Tuesday's practice. He was filling in for a winded member of the third-team defense when he hurt his knee in a non-contact drill. He fell to the ground and had to be carted off the field. "His foot got caught in the grass and he just twisted it," coach Andy Reid said. "I really feel for N.D. because he's such a good person and a hard worker. He was having a great camp."
Analysis: Derrick Burgess, who has played one game in the past two years because of injuries, will replace Kalu. Jerome McDougle, a first-round pick a year ago who has been bothered by injuries, also will see more action.
8/16/2004
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Dawkins to sit Friday
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Brian Dawkins (knee) will most likely sit out Friday's preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens. He has not yet completed a full practice, but coach Andy Ried said his condition was improving. Jerome McDougle (shoulder) is back on the practice field and might play Friday against Baltimore.
Analysis: The Eagles have some injuries on defense, but this unit remains a top option in Fantasy Football.
8/11/2004
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Two players out for Friday
News: The team's official website reports DE Jerome McDougle (shoulder) and FS Brian Dawkins (knee) were unable to practice on Tuesday and will sit for Friday's preseason opener at New England.
Analysis: Both players will be big parts of the Philadelphia defense if they can remain healthy. The Eagles will again be a top Fantasy defensive/special teams unit in all formats.
12/22/2003
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Eagles LB to undergo surgery
News: Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Carlos Emmons is scheduled to undergo surgery this week on his broken left fibula and will be placed on injured reserve. Ike Reese is expected to start for Emmons, while linebackers Justin Ena and Keith Adams also could see some time.
Analysis: Philadelphia's defense remains a quality starting option for Week 17 against the Redskins.
News: Troy Vincent is listed as doubtful for Week 16 against San Francisco due to a hip injury.
Analysis: Vincent is not expected to play. Even if he sits, the Eagles defensive unit remains a solid Fantasy option against the 49ers.
12/14/2003
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Eagles LB is questionable
News: Nate Wayne (ankle) is questionable for Monday's game at Miami. Keith Adams might start in his place.
Analysis: The Eagles' defense is still a good starting option in what might be a low-scoring game with the Dolphins.
11/23/2003
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S Brian Dawkins out
News: Dawkins (foot) and CB Bobby Taylor (foot) were out for Week 12.
Analysis: Sheldon Brown and Clinton Hart started in their absence.
11/16/2003
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S Brian Dawkins return
News: Dawkins (foot) was active in Week 11. He posted five solo tackles in a win over the Giants. CB Bobby Taylor (foot) was inactive.
Analysis: The Eagles defense has more Fantasy value with Dawkins back in the secondary.
11/16/2003
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Brian Dawkins expected to play
News: Dawkins (foot) is expected to play in Week 11, according to reports.
Analysis: Dawkins' presence should help the Eagles' pass defense. Consider using this unit in larger leagues against the Giants.
11/12/2003
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Eagles DBs still sidelined
News: According to the Burlington County Times , it is still unclear when Brian Dawkins will return from a foot injury. "When I first got hurt, I thought, 'OK, I'm an athlete, I'll rehab and get back faster than they're saying,' " Dawkins said. "But I was wrong. This is something you can't rush. There's nothing anybody can give me, no pill the doctors can give me." CB Bobby Taylor is also still dealing with foot problems, and his status for Week 11 is uncertain.
Analysis: The Philadelphia defense is certainly weaker without two of its top DBs, but the unit remains respectable from a Fantasy perspective.
10/31/2003
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Eagles defense injury update
News: CB Lito Sheppard will start in place of CB Bobby Taylor (foot) in Week 9 at Atlanta. Taylor remains sidelined due to the injury. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson said Thursday that DE Jerome McDougle (ankle) will not play in Week 9, but he might make his NFL debut in Week 10 at Green Bay on Monday Night Football.
Analysis: The Eagles defensive unit has been banged up for a majority of the season. They should be a solid start in Week 9 against the inexperienced Kurt Kittner and the struggling Atlanta offense.
10/30/2003
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McDougle set to make debut
News: Phillyburbs.com notes that Jerome McDougle (ankle) will likely make his NFL debut Sunday at Atlanta.
Analysis: The Eagles defense is still beset by numerous injuries, but against Atlanta's anemic offense, consider starting them once again.
10/16/2003
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McDougle practices
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer notes that Jerome McDougle (ankle) practiced on Wednesday and will probably return Week 8 against the Jets.
Analysis: The Eagles defense has played well without McDougle and will probably continue with him.
10/12/2003
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CB Vincent expected to play
News: According to reports, Troy Vincent (hamstring) is expected to play in Week 6. "I want to put myself in this situation," Vincent said. "I wouldn't go back out there if I wasn't prepared to play."
Analysis: The Eagles defense is worth starting in larger Fantasy leagues.
10/1/2003
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Philly defenders still hurting
News: Troy Vincent sat out Wednesday's practice with a hamstring injury. Bobby Taylor (foot) also missed practice, as did Brian Dawkins (foot). Dawkins is out for Sunday's game against Washington. Vincent and Taylor are questionable. Defensive end Jerome McDougle (ankle) is doubtful.
Analysis: The injury-riddled Eagles defense might not perform up to expectations in a divisional matchup with Washington in Week 5.
9/18/2003
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Brian Dawkins still ailing
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports FS Brian Dawkins and DE Jerome McDougle needed crutches to get around Wednesday, which probably indicates that they won't play in Week 4 at Buffalo. DE Brandon Whiting (hamstring) and CB Bobby Taylor (foot) have a better chance of returning.
Analysis: The Eagles have a bye in Week 3.
9/10/2003
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Injuries hurting Eagles
News: FS Brian Dawkins will be out two to six weeks with a foot sprain, but will not require surgery. He suffered the injury during the Eagles' 17-0 loss to Tampa Bay on Monday night. Head trainer Rick Burkholder termed it a "mild Lis Franc sprain." CB Bobby Taylor (foot) and DE Brandon Whiting (hamstring) are listed as doubtful for Week 2 against New England.
Analysis: These injuries really hurt the value of the Eagles defense for Week 2. Fantasy owners might want to reserve this suddenly injury-riddled unit.
9/9/2003
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DL Whiting has hamstring injury
News: Brandon Whiting left Monday's game against Tampa Bay with a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Whiting's status is uncertain. If he is forced to miss time, the Fantasy value of the defensive unit would decrease slightly.
9/9/2003
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Eagles defense off on Monday
News: The Philadelphia Eagles defensive unit allowed 328 total yards on Monday night against Tampa Bay. The unit also failed to record a sack.
Analysis: The Eagles welcome Tom Brady and the New England Patriots to Lincoln Financial Field in Week 2. Brady was picked off four times by the Bills defense in Week 1. The Eagles defense is still a top Fantasy option in most formats.
9/2/2003
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Eagles face rival Bucs
News: The Eagles face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night to open their 2003 season. The last time these two teams faced each other during the regular season, the Eagles defense held the Bucs to just 10 points.
Analysis: The Eagles defense is one of the top units in Fantasy Football and is worth starting in most weeks.
8/29/2003
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DE McDougle suffers injuries
News: Jerome McDougle left Thursday's preseason game against the Jets. He suffered a left hip and ankle injury in the third quarter.
Analysis: X-rays were negative and coach Andy Reid said he would undergo an MRI on Friday. His status for the opener against the Buccaneers.
8/24/2003
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Eagles lose DE Jamaal Green
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Green will miss the season after undergoing ankle surgery on Saturday. He fractured his right ankle during Friday's preseason game against New England.
Analysis: Green was expected to serve as a backup to N.D. Kalu. His loss does not decrease the Fantasy value of the defensive unit.
8/20/2003
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DE Derrick Burgess out
News: Burgess injured his right foot in practice, the same foot he broke in the season opener last year. X-rays on Burgess' foot were negative, but it's not known how long he'll be out. He missed practice on Tuesday afternoon and is questionable for Friday's preseason game against New England.
Analysis: Rookie Jerome McDougal will see more playing time in Burgess' absence.
8/19/2003
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Eagles sign Rashard Cook
News: According to phillyBurbs.com, the Eagles have re-signed Cook.
Analysis: Cook is coming off two knee operations and has no Fantasy appeal. His additions means little to the Fantasy value of he Eagles defense.
8/11/2003
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Whiting back at practice
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Brandon Whiting (hamstring) has returned to practices. He is hoping to play in Saturday's preseason game.
Analysis: Whiting is a projected starter on the Philadelphia defense, which will be one of the better units in Fantasy Football.
8/3/2003
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Several Eagles' have injuries
News: Key members of the Philadelphia defense are dealing with nagging injuries. LB Carlos Emmons missed Sunday's practice due to a calf injury. DE Brandon Whiting was also out due to a strained hamstring. DT Jeremy Schlecta has a concussion and is out indefinitely.
Analysis: Emmons and Whiting will be starters. They are considered day to day and their injuries are not considered serious. They are part of one of the top defensive units in the NFC from a Fantasy perspective.
7/31/2003
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Eagles tab return man
News: The Philadelphia Inquirer says Brian Westbrook has been confirmed as the replacement for Brian Mitchell as the Eagles' punt and kick return man.
Analysis: Westbrook is smart and explosive, and should help the Eagles' unit maintain a high level of Fantasy play.
7/11/2003
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Philadelphia adds linebacker
News: The Eagles signed Jason Short, who played in NFL Europe with the Barcelona Dragons.
Analysis: Short's signing will not have an impact in Fantasy leageus.
