The Philadelphia Eagles are firing on all cylinders after getting off to a league-best 8-1 start to the 2017 NFL season. Although most of the credit has gone to the stellar play of quarterback Carson Wentz and their high-octane offense, the defense has also been one of the most formidable units in the league.
The strength of the defense has undoubtedly been the defensive line. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Philadelphia has now fortified this group by signing defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan to a four-year, $48 million extension.
Eagles signed DT Timmy Jernigan to a 4-year extension, $48 million extension that includes $26 million fully guaranteed, per source. Here he is: pic.twitter.com/y4G3WtJjrD
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 9, 2017
Although Jernigan has registered just 1.5 sacks and 17 tackles this year, Philadelphia was quick to reach a long-term deal before he could become an unrestricted free agent after next season. The Eagles have now essentially solidified this unit for years to come with Fletcher Cox, Derek Barnett, and Chris Long all being under contract through 2020. This is a unit that has helped Philadelphia rank first in rushing yards allowed (66.4) and sixth in total sacks (25.0) through nine games.
Despite his slow start to the 2017 NFL season stat-wise, Jernigan has shown to be a steady producer, having recorded at least 4.0 sacks each year of his career. His sack numbers thus far is simply a result of the many weapons they have on the defensive line; just because the numbers don't show it doesn't mean he hasn't been productive in causing havoc.
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