The Eagles haven’t made any secret of their top offensive priority this offseason.
They want Michael Vick to make fewer mistakes than he made in 2011. Vick’s 18 turnovers in 13 games were a big reason why the Eagles season ended short of the playoffs and quarterback coach Doug Pederson wants him to work staying within the system instead of trying to do too much when plays break down. They may have the right defense to help put this plan in motion.
With Trent Cole, Jason Babin, Brandon Graham, Cullen Jenkins, Fletcher Cox and Vinny Curry, the Eagles’ defensive line is stocked with players who can get after the quarterback. While they won’t be hitting Vick during practices, they should be forcing him to work on his ability to make plays under duress.
“They’re ferocious,” Vick said, via Ed Kracz of PhillyBurbs.com. “They were a little bit timid in the beginning of camp and OTAs, but they’re moving around really well and know what they’re supposed to do and what their responsibilities are. They look like they have been working hard.”
Vick said that he’s been working on slowing down his feet and remaining calm in the pocket so far this offseason. With the Eagles offensive line looking questionable in spots, it’s a skill he’s going to need to learn. Kracz points out a few moments where that hasn’t worked out during OTAs, but it bodes well for the Eagles offense if Vick figures out how to remain calm against his own pass rush.