5 reasons the Philadelphia Eagles will make the playoffs in 2017

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Oct 23, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles middle linebacker Jordan Hicks (58) reacts to a goal line stand against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 21-10. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

The defense

Philadelphia’s defense was solid in 2016. While the secondary struggled at times, the front seven was one of the best in the league. Defensive linemen Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham are two of the best in the business at disrupting plays and the additions of Timmy Jernigan and Chris Long will only make the unit better as a whole.

The Eagles also selected defensive end Derek Barnett in the first round of this year’s draft. Barnett, who broke Reggie White‘s sack record at Tennessee, has been impressing during Eagles OTAs and figures to play a significant role on the Eagles’ defensive line this season.

The emergence of Jordan Hicks at linebacker has also given the defense a significant boost. In just his second professional season, Hicks became an invaluable presence both in the locker room and on the field. As long as Hicks can stay healthy, which has been an issue for him, the Eagles defense will continue its upward trajectory.

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