Eagles Face Challenges After Losing Key Defensive Players
Nov 23, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Philadelphia Eagles safety Reed Blankenship (32) celebrates after an interception in the second quarter at AT&T Stadium.
Image: Si
The Philadelphia Eagles are grappling with the loss of key defensive players Nakobe Dean and Reed Blankenship due to free agency. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio remains optimistic about replacements stepping up, highlighting the need for strong leadership and performance in the upcoming season.
- 01Reed Blankenship was known as the 'traffic cop' of the Eagles' secondary, essential for aligning complex coverage schemes.
- 02Nakobe Dean is now with the Las Vegas Raiders, while Blankenship has signed with the Houston Texans.
- 03Jihaad Campbell impressed as a rookie starter but faced competition for the linebacker position.
- 04Fangio plans to utilize All-Pro corner Cooper DeJean at safety in base formations, with Marcus Epps as a potential replacement.
- 05The Eagles experienced roster turnover exceeding 30% this offseason, a common trend in the NFL.
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The Philadelphia Eagles are adjusting to the offseason departures of key defensive players Nakobe Dean and Reed Blankenship. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio emphasized the importance of leadership in their absence, noting that while Dean's instincts and football IQ will be missed, Jihaad Campbell could enhance the linebacker position. Blankenship, who was integral to the secondary's alignment and communication, has signed with the Houston Texans, creating a gap that Fangio acknowledges will be challenging to fill. He expressed confidence in the ability of players like All-Pro corner Cooper DeJean, who will transition to safety in certain formations, and veteran Marcus Epps, who is a leading candidate for the safety position. The Eagles have a history of overcoming player losses, as evidenced by their performance last season when they played without Dean for the first seven games. Fangio remains optimistic about the team's ability to adapt and thrive despite the high roster turnover typical in the modern NFL.
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The Eagles' defensive performance could be affected by the loss of leadership and experience from Dean and Blankenship, impacting their overall effectiveness in the upcoming season.
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