3 Keys to a Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl Run in 2019

3. The development of the offensive and defensive line 

Everything starts up front. The last key for the Eagles is the continued development of a young core on both sides of the line. Two players of note are Andre Dillard and Derek Barnett.

Jason Peters cannot play forever. As much as we would like him to, in the past two seasons Peters has played 79.5% (2018) and 37.3% (2017) of the offensive snaps. This leaves the door open for Dillard to not only learn from Peters in his rookie season, but perhaps contribute to the protection of Carson Wentz’s blind side.

It will be imperative that Andre Dillard’s development be treated with importance noting the struggles of 2017 when Peters missed extended time.

Finally, that brings us to consensus breakout candidate Derek Barnett. With Chris Long and Michael Bennett gone, the Birds will be looking on the former first-round pick to take a step forward.

After a hot start in 2018, Barnett hit the shelf due to injury. At just 23 years old, Barnett is merely scratching the surface of his potential as a pro and how he handles the additional attention and pressure as a regular starter will be interesting to watch unfold. You would love to see him in the nine-to-twelve sack range.

Take a look at this highlight.

It’s hard to envision a scenario where the Eagles aren’t in the thick of things come January. These three focuses will go a long way toward securing another strong possibility of a title shot in February.