When the Eagles drafted defensive end Vinny Curry in the second round of April’s draft, the pick was widely hailed as a case of the rich getting richer at defensive end.
Curry was expected to be a pass rushing option behind Jason Babin and Trent Cole, but things haven’t worked out that way. Curry has been a scratch in each of the Eagles’ 10 games this season, something that’s been harder to understand as the season has unfolded without particularly strong play from the defensive ends who do suit up on gameday. Philly’s gotten just eight sacks from the position, well below the established level of production.
The Eagles have said their depth at end (they also have Brandon Graham, Darryl Tapp and Phillip Hunt) has kept Curry off the field. That hasn’t stopped Curry from wondering why he isn’t part of the lineup, though.
“I’m pretty sure the fans want to know where their [second-round] pick’s at,” Curry said last week, via Zach Berman of the Philadelphia Inquirer. “I’m wondering the same thing. But it’s damn sure not a talent issue. They have their guys set already. Ankle sprain in the summer, that’s all I could think of.”
Things appear to be changing. Berman reports that Curry is expected to get on the field for the Eagles against the Panthers on Monday night. If he can play well, it would provide a modicum of hope for the future in a season that’s been light on it in Philadelphia.