While injuries have cast a cloud over the wideout room for the Philadelphia Eagles, the situation seems to be improving, as DeVonta Smith made a limited return this week.
But that's not the only position group leaning on improved play from depth pieces as training camp moves along, and the edge unit's depth is tested with the regular season closing in.
With defensive coordinator Vic Fangio remarking that there's no firm timeline for the return of edge Jonathan Greenard, depth at the position is already being tested.
A.J. Epenesa must prove Eagles' depth at edge is legit
One member of the unit in particular, A.J. Epenesa, is going to be key to helping to fill the void, and the former second-rounder who arrived in free agency has been busy getting acclimated to not only rushing the passer but also dropping into coverage. Of course, Fangio's defense calls for edge rushers to do both, something brand new to Epenesa, who operated as a traditional defensive end at both Iowa and as a member of the Buffalo Bills.
After seeing action in the team's first pre-season game against Baltimore, Epenesa reflected on a wheel route that left him glancing at quarterback Tyler Huntley, while Matthew Hibner scooted out into the open for a 29-yard catch on his watch. It's a new scheme for Epenesa, a crash course that now has him doing different things, and he's going to have to pass the test when it comes to dropping into coverage this season:
“I looked back at the quarterback, and you’re not supposed to do that,” Epenesa said. “I’m supposed to keep my eyes on my work.”
“I think a part of the reason I was playing Saturday was to get some game reps in a position I have never played before,” he said. "It’s completely different for me, personally,” Epenesa said. “I was asked to drop back maybe once or twice a game in years past and now it could be every other play. I’m kind of put in a different position now to where I won’t be able to get up the field as quick as I had in the past,” he said.
Nonetheless, the more traditional pass-rushing role he held in Buffalo is now more exotic and more demanding in Philadelphia. His confidence remains strong, though, and he knows he's now a member of Fangio's defense for a reason.
“I believe they wouldn’t have me here if they didn’t think I could do what the job entails,” he said. “I’ve seen myself do it and I’ve seen it on film a few times here in practice.”
Along with Epenesa, fellow newcomer Arnold Ebiketie must also step up with Greenard sidelined, and of course, Nolan Smith faces a big upcoming season as well. Jalyx Hunt could very well be a budding star, but there is strength in numbers, especially when it comes to edge talent.
Read more: Giants' new additions show their desperate attempt to keep pace with Eagles
The depth is being tested already, and this edge group needs to answer the call.
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