Eagles Film Room: How much will the loss of Jordan Hicks hurt Super Bowl hopes?

USATSI_10509067_168382939_lowres

The Eagles linebacker position has endured a season like no other. From the high’s of a Mychal Kendricks breakout, to the lows of losing Jordan Hicks to a heartbreaking season-ending injury. The Birds have coped with the loss so far and bought in some extra re-enfrocements in the way of Dannell Ellerbe to help patch the wound, but will that be enough to hold up in the post-season? It’s time to turn to the eye in the sky.

“It’s probably more the way we’re leaning going forward.” Jim Schwartz told reporters following the dramatic win over Oakland in which Ellerbe made life difficult for Marshawn Lynch. “He had a lot of things we liked, it just wasn’t an overnight thing getting him in there. But he’s worked really hard at it, and I think it showed in the game. He’s a tough, inside-run defender, used his hands well, was active, stepped up, and made a big tackle for a loss in that game. Just like any other player, he’s still got a long way to go, but I like the way he’s trending, and we think that he can help us going forward.”


“I felt like it was a great opportunity for Ellerbe to get in there and see what he could do.” Pederson mentioned when asked at the change at MLB in week 16.” He’s a big, physical guy that gives you a little presence in the run game. He made some plays last night and showed up. It was good to see him play.”

Ellerbe has now played in two games for the Eagles, totaling four tackles in each. Nobody could ever replace Jordan Hicks, but the Eagles have the top-ranked rushing defense in the league for a good reason. Adding a powerful inside linebacker who can plug the holes and force the play outside is exactly what the doctor ordered and after a few weeks of learning the system and the ways of the Schwartz defense, Ellerbe brings nine years of NFL experience to the table as the Birds prepare for their first playoff berth since 2013.