The Philadelphia Eagles rode their defense to the Super Bowl. While Jalen Hurts and DeVonta Smith provided offensive fireworks, it was the defense that secured victories. However, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s unit now faces an unexpected problem heading into the 2025 NFL season: the absence of linebacker Bryce Huff.
The highly sought-after edge rusher joined the Eagles in 2024 after leaving the New York Jets, signing a three-year, $51.1 million contract with $16.8 million guaranteed. However, Huff has failed to meet expectations. In 12 games with the team, he recorded just 2.5 sacks and 12 tackles-only four of them solo.
Disappointed with Huff’s performance, Fangio acknowledged that the player’s future with the team depends on significant improvement.
“I think he has the talent to do what we want him to do, so it will be a work in progress,” Fangio told Tyrone Johnson of 97.5 Fanatic Philadelphia.
Where is Bryce Huff?
Fangio’s words appear to have hit home. Reports from team facilities indicate that Huff will skip all voluntary work with the Eagles, including the organized team activities (OTAs), which are now in full swing.
The Eagles kicked off their OTAs on May 27-28, with additional voluntary sessions scheduled for May 30 and June 2, 3, and 5. The unfolding Huff saga will reach its climax on June 10, when the first mandatory minicamp takes place.
Adding further intrigue, insider Jeff McLane stated, “Huff is unlikely to be part of the Eagles’ plans for 2025.”
If head coach Nick Sirianni chooses to trade Huff and free up cap space, they will need to wait until June 1-when they could seek a team desperate for an edge rusher willing to absorb Huff’s contract.
Potential landing spots for Huff
If Huff’s departure from Philadelphia becomes inevitable, the Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and Arizona Cardinals all have room for a competent pass rusher. Despite his underwhelming stint with the Eagles, Huff showed promise with the Jets, racking up 17.5 sacks and 55 tackles in 54 games.
While nothing is set in stone, signs suggest that Bryce Huff’s days in midnight green may be numbered. The Eagles may not regret losing him, but for a team poised to defend its championship, offseason roster drama is never an ideal start.
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