Three X-Factors for the 2020 Eagles
With the two major player acquisition points being completed, the Eagles 2020 roster is close to being finalized.
The 2020 season is shaping up to be a promising one for the Birds.
Let’s take a look at some players who could make a massive impact on the team’s success.
Derek Barnett
Derek Barnett was selected 14th overall by the Eagle in the 2017 draft. He has had signature moments but has yet to solidify himself as a top tier defensive end in the NFL. Barnett has all of the assets to become an elite pro bowl player but injuries have derailed his growth. Barnett still flashes elite bend and hand placement but has yet to reach his potential. With the interior pressure, Javon Hargrave and Fletcher Cox will bring, Derek does not need to be a world-beater.
If Barnett becomes a consistent rusher, there may be no limit to what he can accomplish if he stays healthy. Barnett stepping up would be huge for the 2020 season and would make the Eagles defense one of the most formidable units in the NFL.
Andre Dillard
The Eagles traded up in the 2019 draft to select Andre Dillard and believed he would succeed Eagles legend, Jason Peters. In limited action, Dillard flourished and by his third start was holding Khalil Mack, 5x pro-bowler and former defensive player of the year, to zero pressures. Dillard was the best pass-blocking tackle in the 2019 draft but lacked fundamental strength which did show up in his three starts last season.
With a full offseason of training Dillard should be ready to prove his worth protecting Carson Wentz. Dillard has the potential to be a pro bowler and can greatly impact the success of the 2020 season.
JJ Arcega-Whiteside
Arcega-Whiteside had an extremely disappointing 2019 season. With the injuries to the receiving core, he still couldn’t separate himself and step up when the team needed it. There is no sure reason as to why he didn’t produce when given the chance but JJ recently stated he was dealing with multiple injuries and difficulty learning the multiple positions he was asked to play.
With the addition of four new receivers, JJ should be able to focus solely on playing the X and Z positions. If new receivers coach Aaron Moorehead can help JJ elevate his game and become the player he was touted to be coming out of Stanford, Arcega-Whiteside can be a perfect compliment to Jalen Reagor and Desean Jackson. He would also add to the Eagles already powerful red zone offense. JJ might be the biggest X-Factor for the Eagles this season.
If he can be productive, there is no ceiling to what the Eagles’ offense can accomplish.
Featured Image: Brett Whitefield/Pro Football Focus
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Categorized:Eagles