Philadelphia Eagles: 5 Reasons to be re-energized about defense

Oct 16, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Matt Jones (31) carries the ball as Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham (55) makes the tackle in the second quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Matt Jones (31) carries the ball as Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham (55) makes the tackle in the second quarter at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 6
Next
Dec 18, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Mike Wallace (17) catches a pass in front of Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Jalen Mills (31) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Mike Wallace (17) catches a pass in front of Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Jalen Mills (31) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Jalen Mills is expected to make strides in year two.

More from Inside the Iggles

Last year, Jalen Mills showed up with a green mohawk, and Eagles fans went bananas. Okay, he had some rough spots in year one. Schwartz said it best. “I’ll sum his rookie season up. It was a rookie season.”

He’s been called intelligent, and he is. He’s also been criticized for his inability, at times, to keep up with faster receivers. What’s been most telling, however, is the fact that his coaches and teammates are satisfied with where he is, and they love him.

He currently sits at the top of the depth chart, along with Robinson, and he’s been worked out at both the outside cornerback and nickel corner positions. His versatility should prove to be an asset, and even though the jury’s still out, he deserves a “thumbs up” from everyone who’s been paying attention. At least for right now.