Moving into number 9 in our list of players who have the ability to shape the upcoming NFL season, we turn our attention to Defence. Whilst Offense is arguably what separates the Eagles from any other NFL team, we rapidly learned that no matter how many points you can put on the board under the Chip Kelly Offense, if you have a defence that lacks quality and consistency then you’re cutting the potential of the team in half.
This is where our number 9 comes in. Malcolm Jenkins has the ability to become the leader of a new look Defence this season.
The Eagles were tied 21st in team interceptions last season with a lonely 12 throughout the course of the year. Jenkins caught three of these himself, finishing behind only Nate Allen. Racking up 80 tackles and a forced fumble to go with his impressive record.
Jenkins has already spoken in interviews about sharing the vision of head coach Chip Kelly. Jenkins didn’t have much support last season. Cary Williams and Bradley Fletcher both ultimately struggled and once again the New Jersey native didn’t hold back when it came to his views on the pair being released. The additions of Maxwell and Thurmond should strengthen the back hugely, giving even more confidence to Jenkins.
So the Eagles have sold the deadwood and replaced it with some fresh timber, but you still need some glue to keep the wood together. This is where the veteran comes in. Jenkins has emerged as one of the defensive leaders in Philly and by openly sharing his admiration for Chip Kelly it shows a lot. If a defensive leader, a player who is looked up to in the locker room is keen to adapt and motivated to work hard then the rest of the team is going to follow.
Malcolm’s presence on the field cannot be undermined and the starting safety will be needed this season more than ever to motivate his team and deliver another huge season of numbers. If he can do this, he may well be the pilot in this brand new Defensive air liner!
