Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio hit the practice field Wednesday and dropped some serious insights on who’s making moves on the Eagles defense, but his message about one linebacker, Chance Campbell, is what really caught fire. Fangio flat out said, “Don’t sleep on Chance [Campbell], now. You guys when you make your lists out there. We like Chance. Chance , he’s a good football player.” That’s high praise for a guy who’s been battling injuries earlier in his career.
Jordan Davis’s Transformation Is Real
Hold up, though, because the D-line is getting some love too. Fangio dove deep on defensive tackle Jordan Davis’s journey, especially as a pass rusher. It all started back at the end of the 2024 season when Davis really committed to getting in better shape. Our guy Fangio said it best: “He’s a much better pass rusher in the 330s than he is what he was, and that to me is the biggest thing.” It’s all about being able to use his full 6-foot-6 frame but also bending those knees to play at 6-foot-3 when he needs to. That lighter weight and better conditioning has made him move around easier, for a longer time, and totally propelled his game. You love to see that kind of dedication pay off early in the season.
New Faces and Growing Pains on Defense
Beyond Davis, other guys are stepping up big time. Linebacker Arnold Ebiketie has made some “nice progress” according to Fangio. He was a bit hesitant and unsure coming into the offseason and OTAs, but he’s turned that around and is having a much better camp, making the most of reps with Jonathan Greenard sidelined. Then there’s DB Michael Carter. Fangio’s feeling good about him playing nickel, even safety if they need him to. Not all the other DBs are quite there yet, but with a defense that mostly has guys with some background, they’re looking to make those decisions quicker. And speaking of progress, Jeremiah Trotter is having a “very good camp.” Fangio sees him “looking better, moving better, playing better,” saying it’s less about conditioning and more about knowing his assignments, seeing things quicker, and playing faster. It’s the best Fangio has seen him look, period.
Campbell’s Comeback and What’s Next
But let’s get back to Chance Campbell, because Fangio’s words were a direct shot across the bow: “since the day we picked him up last year, he’s shown that he’s a football player.” This dude was literally picked up the last week of a preseason game last year, a few days before it even, and didn’t need any acclimation period. That’s a testament to his grit and football IQ. While Fangio also noted the tough balance of getting starters reps while keeping them healthy, and that player development won’t overshadow team needs, the message is clear. Keep your eyes on these early risers. As the regular season heats up, these are the guys making their mark and showing what they bring to the field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleeding Green Nation.
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