Former Eagles defensive coordinator Sean McDermott essentially tried to run a version of Jim Johnson’s old defense. With long-time offensive line coach Juan Castillo now running the show and defensive line coach Jim Washburn on board, what is the new Eagles defense going to look like?
The buzzword in Philadelphia is simplicity. The team wants to pare down and simplify a defense that apparently confused many of the players.
“We’re trying to cut some things back and make it easier for the guys to understand what we want them to do,” new cornerbacks coach Johnnie Lynn told Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Washburn and Lynn are veteran defensive coaches that will help to ease Castillo into his new position. Washburn spoke about using defensive end Trent Cole far less in coverage. Castillo talked about building his defense to complement the pressure Washburn’s line brings.
Safety coach Mike Zordich said McDermott was a “little tight” and hinted responsibilities would be more spread out under Castillo. More than anything, Castillo seems to want to focus on fundamentals and attitude.
“I think when Jim Johnson was here they had his personality,” Castillo said. “I felt with my linemen that we were aggressive, that we were tough, that we were physical, that we finished everything, and that we tried to choke people. You know, be physical.”