Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Malik Jackson knows just how talented the team's defensive line is. In an interview with Philadelphia media on Wednesday, the eight-year NFL veteran spoke on the potential of the Eagles' defense and the incredible depth they possess.
Along with Jackson, the Eagles D-line is headlined by five-time Pro Bowler Fletcher Cox and complimented by pieces like Anthony Rush, Hassan Ridgeway, and Bruce Hector as well as defensive tackle Javon Hargrave who the team signed to a three-year, $39 million contract this offseason. This depth is what Jackson believes makes the position group so special for Philadelphia.
“You're always going to need it,” Jackson said via the team's website. “It's a long season. It wears you down. Watching it last year, you see how you have to account for guys going down. We have some talent here. We're going to create some problems for offensive lines.”
Jackson, who had not been injured in any of his first seven NFL seasons, was forced to miss all but one game for the Eagles last year after he suffered a season-ending foot injury.
Prior to signing with Philadelphia, the 30-year-old defensive tackle started 10 games for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018, where he recorded 32 tackles, seven tackles for a loss, and 3.5 sacks.
Injuries plagued the Eagles on both sides of the ball last year, but as they head into the 2020 season, they're focused on once again being contenders.
“Yeah, on paper right now we look great,” Jackson said. “We have to get the defense down, learn the technique, and stay healthy. The team that stays healthy is going to win it all. It's a great room. Hargrave, he's a great player. For me, I want to contribute. I want to get all the way healthy and stay that way and show everybody what I can do.”
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