Bryce Huff’s arrival at the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 was met with high expectations. Coming off a stellar season with the New York Jets, Huff was expected to be a key piece in the Eagles’ defensive front. However, his first season in Philadelphia was filled with challenges, injuries, and questions about his future. This article examines his journey, performance, and what lies ahead.
Bryce Huff’s Rise in the NFL
Bryce Huff, born on April 17, 1998, in Mobile, Alabama, had a relatively quiet start to his football career. After playing at St. Paul’s Episcopal School, he earned a scholarship to the University of Memphis. There, he developed into a standout pass rusher, leading the team in sacks and tackles for loss in his junior and senior seasons.
Despite his college success, Huff went undrafted in 2020. He signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent, gradually carving out a role for himself. By 2023, Huff was one of the most effective pass rushers in the league, leading the NFL in quarterback pressure rate (21.8%). His breakout season caught the attention of multiple teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles.
Signing with the Philadelphia Eagles
In March 2024, the Eagles made a big move by signing Huff to a three-year, $51.1 million contract. The deal made him one of the highest-paid undrafted defenders in league history. His addition was part of the Eagles’ plan to bolster their defensive line, pairing him with Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat to create a dominant pass-rushing trio.
The expectation was that Huff would bring his high-pressure rate to Philadelphia and be a game-changer on defense. However, his first season with the Eagles didn’t go as planned.
A Season of Challenges and Setbacks
Injury Struggles
Early in the 2024 season, Huff suffered a torn ligament in his wrist, forcing him to miss five weeks. The injury slowed his momentum and affected his ability to perform at his peak. Even after returning, he struggled to regain his pre-injury form.
Lack of Production
Huff finished the regular season with 13 tackles and just 2.5 sacks in 14 games—far below expectations. His reduced impact on the field led to a smaller role in the defensive rotation.
One of the most concerning moments came in a key game against the Jacksonville Jaguars when Huff played only six snaps, the lowest of his season. This raised questions about whether he fit into the Eagles’ defensive scheme and if the coaching staff had lost confidence in him.
Super Bowl Inactivity
The most significant setback came when Huff was listed as inactive for Super Bowl LIX. While the Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to secure a championship, Huff’s absence highlighted his struggles. Being left out of the biggest game of the season was a major disappointment for him and raised concerns about his future with the team.
Defensive Coordinator’s Assessment
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio was critical of the team’s defensive performance in the second half of the Super Bowl. He called it “unacceptable” despite the win, signaling that changes might be coming. While he didn’t single out individual players, it was clear that the defense as a whole, including Huff’s contributions, was under scrutiny.
What’s Next for Bryce Huff?
A Make-or-Break 2025 Season
Huff still has two years left on his contract, but 2025 will be crucial for him. If he doesn’t bounce back, he could see his role further diminished or even be a potential trade candidate.
He has expressed a commitment to improving, saying:
“This season didn’t go as I envisioned, but I’m committed to putting in the work and proving my worth.”
Potential Defensive Changes
The Eagles’ front office is reportedly exploring moves to strengthen their defense. There have been rumors that General Manager Howie Roseman is considering a blockbuster trade for Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns. If the Eagles make a move for another star pass rusher, Huff’s role could be further reduced.
Adjusting to Fangio’s System
One challenge Huff faced was adapting to Fangio’s defensive scheme, which requires versatility from edge rushers. If he can improve in run defense and prove himself as a three-down player rather than just a situational pass rusher, he could regain his spot as a key contributor.
Conclusion
Bryce Huff’s first season with the Philadelphia Eagles didn’t go as expected. Injuries, inconsistent play, and a reduced role made it a challenging year. However, he still has time to turn things around. With a full offseason to recover and adjust, 2025 will be a defining year for Huff. If he can bounce back and make a bigger impact, he could still justify the Eagles’ investment in him. However, if his struggles continue, his future in Philadelphia may be uncertain.
