With perhaps the best defensive tackle rotation the Philadelphia Eagles have had in the past five seasons, what might we expect from the man that might be the best player on this team?
Say what you want about the Philadelphia Eagles and their snafus in the NFL Draft, especially under former head coach Andy Reid and vice president and general manager Howie Roseman’s watch, but occasionally, they get something right. During 2012’s selection meeting, Philly spent the 12th-overall selection on a defensive tackle from the Mississippi State Bulldogs. His name was Fletcher Cox. It’s safe to say that’s worked out pretty well.
For one of Philly’s captains on defense, football can’t start fast enough. The 3.5 sacks and five tackles for a loss, two areas where Cox makes his money, were two of the lowest production totals in what’s already been a stellar career.
It isn’t his fault. Malik Jackson got hurt. Timmy Jernigan looks like he’ll never be the same guy he once was, and the young guys were still learning how to play the position. As a result, the season carried on, and there were times when it just looked like Cox could have used a day off.
That day off never came, and even though 40 total tackles, 3.5 sacks. and three forced fumbles are enough to warrant most NFL defensive tackles a contract extension, for one of the game’s best, it feels like a slightly disappointing season.
Fear not Eagles fans. Cox isn’t nearing his decline yet. 2020 will be his bounceback year, and there are several reasons why that’s the case. Here are three reasonable expectations for 2020.