The Philadelphia Eagles faced a significant setback on Wednesday as defensive end Bryce Huff underwent a procedure to address a wrist injury, sidelining him indefinitely. While the team remains hopeful for his return this season, Huff’s immediate availability is uncertain, creating a void in their pass-rushing depth. Huff, who has faced scrutiny this season following his lucrative contract extension, has recently shown improvement with 2.5 sacks so far, hinting at a resurgence in form.
Throughout the season, there have been ongoing discussions about whether the Eagles should bolster their pass-rushing corps, even as Huff remained active. With his injury now forcing him out of the lineup, this necessity becomes more urgent. Philadelphia may explore adding reinforcements, potentially starting with the practice squad, to ensure depth and readiness in a crucial phase of the season.
One option the Eagles might consider is signing former Buffalo Bills first-round pick Shaq Lawson. A seasoned NFL veteran with nine years of experience, Lawson has only appeared in one game this season with the Carolina Panthers. Though not a standout talent, the 30-year-old offers reliable veteran presence at an affordable cost, making him an appealing candidate for a depth role.
Lawson’s career has largely been defined by his contributions as a rotational player rather than a starter. Over the past three seasons, he has recorded modest sack totals—one in 2023, 3.5 in 2022, and one in 2021. While his numbers are far from game-changing, his experience and ability to step in when needed could prove valuable for the Eagles during Huff’s absence.
Philadelphia doesn’t necessarily need a high-impact superstar to fill the gap left by Huff’s injury. Instead, the focus should be on securing a dependable insurance policy to maintain stability on the defensive front. Lawson’s proven track record as a role player aligns well with this need, offering the Eagles a cost-effective solution to address their immediate concerns without disrupting their broader roster strategy.
With the season progressing and playoff aspirations in sight, ensuring sufficient depth on defense becomes paramount for the Eagles. Adding someone like Shaq Lawson could provide the team with much-needed flexibility and a steady presence as they navigate Huff’s uncertain timeline for recovery.
