Philadelphia's defense carried the Week 2 win over Kansas City, holding the Chiefs under 300 yards and roughly five yards per play. Vic Fangio's pressure packages and a sharp nickel job from Cooper DeJean anchored the effort, while Andrew Mukuba provided a game-changing interception. Offense still needs cohesion, but the defensive blueprint and playmaking jolt give the Eagles a clear path to sustained success in 2025.

Key strands: DeJean's elite nickel instincts, Campbell's post-snap rotation that freed a rush, and a surprising Za’Darius Smith debut. The interior disruption from Jalen Carter and the lengthened front pressure kept Mahomes uncomfortable, with Baun and Mukuba delivering splash plays. The back end showed growth but some spacing busts remain. Still, the defense flashed a blueprint teams will have to answer in the coming weeks.

Week 1 laid bare Philadelphia's cornerback gaps: Quinyon Mitchell on the boundary, Cooper DeJean in the slot, and Adoree' Jackson for whom the jury is still out. The Eagles are expected to hunt for help on the market, with Greg Newsome II floated by Kristopher Knox as a trade target for a 2026 third-round pick. Newsome’s versatility to play boundary or slot would be a meaningful upgrade, potentially reshaping Philly’s secondary and elevating fantasy prospects across the defense.