5 Philadelphia Eagles who have stepped up from last season

Vinny Curry, DE

You know Vinny Curry, right? The guy that signed a five-year, $47.2 million contract with the Eagles a couple of years back. That specific contract was once called the worst defensive lineman contract in football. Considering he has only recorded six sacks in two seasons after his nine-sack season in 2014, that contract accusation was fairly accurate.

We are seeing a different Curry this season, though. In fact, through nine games, Curry has the same amount of tackles as he did in 16 games of last season. The only difference is this year he has three sacks instead of two and a half. We are not quite sure what is different about this year, but the Eagles 2017 first-round selection may have something to do with it.

The rookie defensive lineman, Derek Barnett has earned his fair share of snaps. When Curry is off the field, Barnett is earning more and more playing time. When Curry was showing early signs of struggling, Barnett was making up for his slack. But at this point of the season, it is tough to show Curry the bench. He has been a major contributor up front on defense and having him and Barnett in the rotation is almost perfect. Everyone who has doubted Curry has definitely come along at this point. He has been a beast.