4. Fletcher Cox, DT
Where is the real Fletcher Cox at? You know, the All-Pro, Pro Bowl, ferocious leader of the Philadelphia Eagles dominant defensive line? Where is that guy? The Eagles seriously need him to show up this week because his previous performances have not been cutting it.
Last week, Fletcher Cox failed to account for a single statistic against the Lions. No tackles, no sacks, no hits on the quarterback, nothing! Quite the difference from a year ago when Cox led the Eagles’ defensive line in total sacks with double-digit numbers.
We get it — the guy is probably still rusty from his offseason surgery and lack of conditioning throughout the summer. Something’s gotta’ give, though. Cox has to tap into his old ways to provide the Eagles with a chance this week. As getting to the quarterback has been a weekly struggle to start the season, Cox needs to lead by example and step up in the absence of Malik Jackson and Timmy Jernigan. It’s easier said than done, but this guy is elite — time to show it.