The Philadelphia Eagles defense has been rejuvenated under defensive coordinator, Jim Schwartz, and there’s been one player who’s been a huge benefactor from Schwartz’s system.
Eagles defensive end, Brandon Graham, has been thriving in Schwartz’s ‘wide-nine’ defensive scheme and his statistics have been proving it. Graham was recently ranked as Pro Football Focus’ No. 1 defenisve end in the NFL and he’s been arguably the best player on the team’s defense early into the 2016 season.
Brandon Graham has a 15.8 pass rushing productivity this season; the best for 4-3 defensive ends
— Nathan Jahnke (@PFF_NateJahnke) September 20, 2016
The success Graham is having in Schwartz’s scheme shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. This isn’t the first time the two worked together either. Graham was coached by Schwartz during the 2010 Senior Bowl and that game ultimately boosted Graham’s draft stock to becoming a top 15 selection in the 2010 draft
Graham recorded two sacks and a forced fumble in the Senior Bowl, which lead to him winning the MVP of the game. So far for Graham, he’s reaping the benefits of being reunited with Schwartz, which could result in a Pro Bowl berth.
Shot 1 – I've been so impressed with Brandon Graham through 2 games. Defense really suits him well #Eagles pic.twitter.com/kyxuuDheAr
— Fran Duffy (@EaglesXOs) September 21, 2016
Graham is well on his way to having a career year. He’s recorded a sack in each of the Eagles’ two games this season, while also forcing a fumble as well. His career high in sacks was six and a half in 2015. He’s on pace to have 16 sacks on the season, which is unlikely, but Graham is definitely in position to have double-digit sacks on the season
Graham has come a long way in his Eagles career. Once considered a first-round bust, to being the player the team picked over Seattle Seahawks star safety, Earl Thomas, Graham has been a solid player for the Eagles these past two seasons.
Shot 5 – 'Bull Rush 101' by @brandongraham55 – gets OT to open his chest, forces a poor throw #Eagles pic.twitter.com/wY8kA552FM
— Fran Duffy (@EaglesXOs) September 21, 2016
It’s definitely not a stretch expecting Graham to achieve his first Pro Bowl berth and leading the Eagles in sacks in 2016. He’s already off to a hot start, Schwartz knows exactly how to utilize his pass-rush skills, and he’s consistently beating offensive tackles. Ladies and Gentlemen -the Eagles 2010 first-round draft pick has finally arrived.
