The Eagles have an ever-evolving defensive scheme, and if Jonathan Gannon had it his way, he’d probably employ a 4-1-6 base defense with six defensive backs and one hybrid linebacker who can cover.
Philadelphia will look to increase pressure off the edge with the acquisition of Haason Reddick, and they’ll be quicker at linebacker after the addition of Kyzir White.
The days of three linebackers on the field are all but over and as the Eagles work to stop some of the NFL’s most explosive offenses, we’ve highlighted 10 hybrid defenders who can do it all.
DeMarvin Leal, Texas A&M
Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
Leal is an active interior defender with outstanding athleticism and play-making ability.
The former Texas A&M star can neutralize the running game at defensive tackle or impact the game as an inside pass rusher.
Devin Lloyd, Utah
(AP Photo/George Frey)
A sideline to sideline linebacker, Lloyd is comparable at times to Micah Parsons as a pass rusher.
Nakobe Dean, Georgia
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dean is a high-IQ, read-and-react defender that can cover, tackle and rush the passer.
Chad Muma, Wyoming
Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Muma is a dynamic playmaking linebacker that maximizes his talents in coverage and as a sideline-to-sideline tackling machine with unique pass-rush ability.
Kyle Hamilton, Notre Dame
(AP Photo/Gary McCullough)
A future All-Pro that plays with instincts, awareness and elite athleticism. Hamilton covers a lot of ground like a center fielder with size, range, and versatility.
Daxton Hill, Michigan
Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Hill is a talented safety who can double as an exceptional nickel defender with superb instincts for the position. A natural slot defender with cover corner-like skills, Hill is three players in one.
Jaquan Brisker, Penn State
Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Brisker possesses a variety of skills that make him a Swiss Army…