The Eagles started their rookie workouts this weekend at the Nova Care Complex, so I got the chance to take a good look at the Birds first round pick, defensive tackle Fletcher Cox.
Cox gets off on the ball. His first step quickness jumps out at you. Defensive line coach Jim Washburn demands that out of his defensive linemen but the innate quickness of Cox is noticeable because he’s both big and extremely quick.
I’ve seen that type of quickness at the defensive end position, but you rarely see it at the defensive tackle spot. Cox does a great job with his hands, which is unusual for rookies. Still, it’s not time to get all worked up about Cox beating other rookies in shorts.
Of course Washburn was getting after his prize pupil with his loud voice during his first workouts. This wasn’t anything new to Cox.
“It was like working with Coach Wilson back at Mississippi State. They’ll both get after you and coach you really hard. They’ll get right into you”, Cox said.
Washburn had Cox playing both defensive tackle and defensive end, which is also nothing new for him because he did the same thing at Mississippi State.
“He moved me to end to today, both sides to see what I could do. He asked me if I wanted to go to end and I told him it really didn’t matter”, Cox said after the practice on Saturday.
The youngster is off the ball like a shot at either spot. His combination of size, strength along with tremendous speed and quickness will give the centers and guards in the league major problems. If they can get to this kid to play up to his ability, it will make the Birds defensive line of Jason Babin, Trent Cole and Cullen Jenkins, very difficult to deal with.
The Eagles should have an outstanding pass rush this year because you can’t double-team everybody. With Babin, Cole and Jenkins absent from the rookie workouts, the Eagles offensive line double-teamed Cox on just about every play during the 11-on-11 segment of practice.
“It wasn’t a big deal. They’re there to compete, I’m there to compete against them”, Cox said.
This kid sounds promising. Hes saying and doing all the right things. The plan for him is to move him all over the line similar to how the giants use Justin Tuck, and how the bucs used Simeon Rice. The kid is hungry and certainly has the burst and strength to make a major impact in the league. But again like you said, they were still in shorts. Lets wait for him in the pads. Howd Curry, Boykins, McNutt and Kendricks look? Im sure impressive. I think every pick the Eagles made will have a impact on this team this year some way shape or form, if not this year then next, they really did a great job in the evaluations of these players and added some big time talent. Now they just have to be coached and play well together. Im looking forward to training camp and taking that ride put to Lehigh to check this team out with everyone on the same field playing together not just the rookies.
Barring any health issues, this dude is going to be a flat out beast. Bank on it. Might end up being the best pick in the Reid era.
Can’t wait to go to Lehigh with the clan.
My Son’s are just as pumped as me. This D-line is as stacked as any in the NFL.
who no mention of Castillo airing out Cox with a profanity laced tirade, did schiller edit that last article?
jakedog – I didn’t do any editing. No can do on this site. But, I assume you meant to ask ‘why’ no mention.
Probably because there’s nothing worth mentioning. A coach cursing at a player? Wait, everybody stop what they’re doing. This is major breaking news. It’s never happened before. I heard that when Castillo did that Jim Wasburn ran up and punched Juan in the face and told him to never behave so inappropriately around players by using “the Devil’s tongue”. Washburn then shoved Juan’s face in a bilbe and forced a muzzle over his head.
It’s FOOTBALL CAOCHING.
Why no mention of Duce Staley taking a sip of water – I heard he did so near Bryce Brown. Big news…
We are all hungry for news about how the young Birds are doing, but we can all remember glowing reports about guys in shorts that ultimately did nothing for the team…..I have no doubt that Cox will be a stud, and chances are that Kendricks will be a good addition to the team, but these early reports are not something we should base too much on …..yet. GO BIRDS!!
biggest news for me was confirmation that they are thinking of using Cox as a DE – So all those other blogs talking about Babin Kendricks and DRC on one side getting run at – (ignore for just one second al the points of the DTs creating havoc in the BF – a new MLB – if the TE is on that side you will probably have a safety somewhere near the box (an easy cuing for Songs to provide his never changing diatribe) –
back on point – now – how does that image change if the left side of the DL is Cox at DE and Jenkins or Dixon at DT – with Ryans running free behind those two??
anyway – that is the part I like – and since we know he already di that in college our round peg ‘smarter then everyone else’ whanking can take a break as well –
should be very interesting – 4 very solid (it appears right now) defensive draft picks – and 2 from a couple years ago (graham and allen) plus a couple of wilcards (Jarret, Coleman, Marsh, Lindley) could go a very, very long way to answering the age old question of can the eagles draft defensive talent…
So looking at the last 3 years (Roseman) drafts –
2012 – Cox, Curry, Kendricks and Boykin – I think as a group we are all kind of excited to see what these guys can do –
2011 – Jarret – Marsh Matthews, Rolle and Loyd – Is Loyd even around… Rolle will compete at ROLB (will) Matthews will be a backup special teamer and possible nickle backer.. Marsh will probably be the #4 CB (and Back up outside) and Jarret will get a shot to compete with Coleman for SS..
2010 – Graham, Allen, Coleman, Lindley, Clayton, Chaney.. and a couple others that fell by the wayside..
I think by about the 8th week of the season the eagles will have a really good view of what the future holds for the defense..
Nice Post Big Navy……..I made mention before the draft that with Cox speed he could play at DE, and it was met with all kind of negative responses…….but I felt he could have the same affect on the d-line that Reggie White had with his power, and speed. I think the Eagles will still bring in a veteran DT, because of the uncertainty of Mike Patterson………..but the future looks good.
I dont think,- no, I’m sure Trevard Lindley, doesn’t make this team. Our DB’s possibly will be: Nnamdi, DRC, Marsh, Boykins, Cliff Harris, Joselio Hanson, and DJ Johnson, or Brandon Hughes…….I think Lindley sucks, and will be in Cleveland, when the season starts. I know Paul will disagree, but I predicted he would be cut last year….and he was….history will repeat itself again.
What do you think Navy?, I think we still need another impact LB, to play opposite Kendricks.
Oh ,and everybody knows I loath Casey Matthews. I hope they get smart, and realize they don’t have his brother, and politely cut him. I really wanted Nigel Bradham to upgrade from, and replace him on this roster.
I would let Rolle, Chaney, and Matthews (and Jordan) slug it out for the spot – I would prefer a veteran Safety to join the 3 young guys.. the roster is full now though — I like some of the stuff I am reading about these two late RBs (the 7th and UFA)
Not sure they keep HAnsen if they keep Boykins and Marsh (so I see Hansen gone..)
should be fun moving forward
I don’t know how long they will be able to hide Bryce Brown, or Chris Polk on the Practice Squad. Somebody will sign them if they perform well in the pre-season. I just don’t see them cutting Dion Lewis,
Your right Navy they may release Hanson, but not before they’re sure about the other prospects.
Gmcliff – 7 CBs? That’s a lot to keep. But I do think they are higher on Hughes than Lindley. We’ll see.
As for DTs – I hear you on Patterson, but they have vets – Dixon and Landri. Just saying, I highly doubt they add another DT.
And RBs – yeah, I want them to find a way to keep 4, but I doubt they’ll do it. I also don’t really think we need a FB – barely used one last year and McCoy did great.
Still no report as to why the prized pick got a royal ass chewing by the normally pom pom type Castillo, seems there’s a lot of agenda on this site, what’s written about, front office support from bloggers, strange
Juan Castillo is the defensive coordinator.
Now, how do you feel about this defense?
yeah…get Matthews the hell outta here to.
He’s another reminder of how pathetic our coaching staff were last year…
They actually believed he was a starting middle linebacker for the NFL after seeing this slug get abused last preseason.
Jake – quit being an ignorant fuck – here – I will right about it – hey – Philly.com had an article that Juan Castillo bitched out Cox.. you guys read about that –
Castillo, the second-year defensive coordinator, undressed the rookie in the afternoon session when it appeared as if he thought the 21-year old was loafing. In the morning, defensive line coach Jim Washburn – never one to mince words – got on Cox for not hustling upfield after he was blocked.
me I think its a little bit of hey – let’s not let the first round DP think he is anything special – he needs to earn it like evryone else –
jake – question – what is the difference between an ass chewing and a royal ass chewing – is it just a an chewing if the position coach does it – and royal if the cordinator – what if the head coach does it –
and little boy – if there was EVER confirmation you have in fact NOT PLAYED the game of football – after your recent posts – you might as well tatoo next to the word idiot on your forehead – newsflash – football coach curses at player… stop the presses!
you and sad songs – where is dummer windbag – I see his lonewolf posts….
jake – we didn’t hear it. And most likely, it was overblown by the media. They said he cursed him out a bet. You said “a royal ass chewing”. So we have little straight facts, and the report we DO have, you exaggerated. But again, I can answer you question – IT’S NOT NEARLY A FRACTION OF AS BIG A DEAL AS YOU THINK IT IS.
First you know who verified that? COX HIMSELF. He said he didn’t know what it was about specifically, but he said it’s no big deal because he’s used to coaches doing that.
It’s possible Juan tried to act all tough and it was akward timing, but still not a big deal.
Get the f over it, and quit it with your conspiracy theory about this site. If this site were Garry’s ‘job’ – he’d either be fired for showing up an hour or two every other week, or it would be listed as not even a part time job. We all take this site WAY more seriously than Garry or any of the other writers do. It’s not a news site – so for you to expect for them to report or comment on every little thing that is said about this Eagles, is misguided. You should know that by now, just pay attention.
Jake…I was at TC last year for a day – it was just a walkthru because of new collective barg agreement…barely anyone in the stands…anyway…
Castillo was dropping f-bombs every 20 seconds (though mostly in the direction of DRC). So I wouldn’t read much into that at all. Besides, everyone knows you’ve got to be tough early, so you can let up a bit later…..
Songs and his stupidity – exhibit one.
“Juan Castillo is the defensive coordinator.
Now, how do you feel about this defense?”
Fact: “This defense is undefined because teams do not set their rosters or depth charts in May”.
Fact “It is stupid to evaluate something that is not defined”
Navy – I never played football. Not even close. But I sure as hell know that a coach cursing at a player is as routine and non-significant as a teacher rolling their eyes at a student.
I think Jake wants Castillo and Wasburn to fan Cox, drop grapes in his mouth, and massage his feet, all the while refering to him as “our precious”.
it is a big deal, at a minimum Mr. Cobb should have reported it if he were at the practice, you guys drool over some the most insignificant information, and on the first day on the job the prized rookie is laid out verbally by juan and mudd for reportedly dogging it, get the information out there, why isn’t it?
I don’t know Jake – typically on this site most of the Philly.com articles are ‘summarized’
my theory is that as a veteran pro player MR Cobb finds absolutley nothing newsworthy in a DC and position coach setting the tone by finding the #1 draft pick and sending the message to every first year guy that the expectations are high, standards are high and what got you by before will not get you by at this level –
what do you think – you think there is some big conspiracy.. and that drool is becuase a friend sent me a link to Kate Upton cat daddy dance link….. go ahead google it.. watch it…
I go on record as saying, Fletcher Cox injury withstanding, will be the NFC defensive rookie of the year. There is no way he’s kept off the field, as a DT or DE, this cat’s the genuine article! If I were to create a defensive lineman, he would be big(6’4-300lbs), fast, and “COUNTRY STRONG”. Sounds like Cox to me!
as long as the coaches don’t hurt his feelings by talking mean to him.. and cursing.. and having high expectations…
jake – ok then. But have you really followed this site (and I know you have) and come to the conclusion that it’s a place where things are ‘reported’ or commented on for any reason EVER other then ‘the writer feels like it’?
Gcobb gets ego boosts, advertisment money, and a half a slice of credit from this website. He puts in a little bit of effort into it. Sometimes. When he feels like it. If he feels like it. It’s a side project in his retirement. Sure he works for WIP and the whatnot, but this is NOT the place to come for comprehensive updates on any sport.
Like Navy said, usually if he reports anything, it’s a REACTION or RESPONSE to something on Philly.com, or profootballtalk.com… etc…
You’re looking in the wrong place for what you want.
He’s also “country smart”. That’s on a completely different level than most! Washburn has the same mentality, that’s why he’s successful. Fletcher will be fine! The biggest problems will be how to stop him when lined up in different positions along the line. One series he’s line up as left DE, then rt DE, or DT. You can’t double team everyone!
Jake I saw on eagles.com where washburn was yelling at curry about something. They just breaking them in man, they big boys now.
Yeah pdiddy – THEY big boys now. But is Jake?
Some people say that Paulman is ‘Country Smart”, not many people, but some..
Completely off topic fellas what do you guys think about the Sixers game tonight?. Do you think they can steal a win on the road?
Shill, my thinking is…….what if Nnamdi, or DRC gets hurt we need depth, and special team gunners……just insurance….but I think Lindley is nothing special.
I tell you what ..I know it’s in shorts but Bryce Brown looks good. I hope he can learn what he needs to, and perform well enough to stick around.
I’m pumped for the season Shill………..
to pdiddy,
I believe the 76ers blew their chance of stealing one from Boston at their place..
The Celts know the 76ers are a up and coming team and know that beating them to go up 2-0 will probably send the young 76ers team home with little confidence left.. I think Celts win big tonight 107-82
Cliff, I hear you, but if you’re going heavy at CB, where are going light to compensate?
I agree on Brown. Polk too though. I like both of those guys.
Nice to here you’re amped Cliff.
Listen to you schiller, talking tough, lol, you are but navy’s stooge
Navy top beta dude
Schiller – You say a lot of crazy things but… “I think Jake wants Castillo and Wasburn to fan Cox, drop grapes in his mouth, and massage his feet, all the while refering to him as “our precious” was funny as hell lol!
GO SIXERS
@ Shiller – What do you mean heavy?……Thats only one more CB than they carried all last year ……..Nnamdi, Asante, DRC, Hanson, Marsh, Hughes, were on the roster last year….I think Cliff Harris is a wild card; he really is good, and I think all of us agree that Brandon Boykins, will be there to probably replace Hanson….7 CB is realistic.
At least 2 of the LB’s that were on the team last year will be cut or released. My choices…MY CHOICES…..would be Foiku, Lloyd and Matthews. I would move Keenan Clayton to SS.
I know I’m going to start some drama…..but look for the Eagles to bring in Albert Haynesworth for a chat, and eventually sign him to a 1 year contract. Let the negativity begin; the” you crazy GMCliff!!” post begin. I still think it’s going to happen………………….
gmC – looking right now – I think the D carries 10 DL 4 S 6 LB and 5 CBs
the DL will be 5 DE and 5 DTs (COle, Babin, Curry, Graham and Hunt – Jenkins Patterson, Cox, and 2 of the 3 between Thorton, LAndri and Dixon) Thorton I think has another year of practice squad time.
S – Allen, Coleman, Jarret and pick one more (Anderson injured kneee)
LB – Kendricks and Ryan and then pick 4 among the rest
CB – Asmo, DRC, Boykin, MArsh, and pick pick one
just doing the 25/25/3 split…
don;t think they talk to Haynesworth… no negativity – just think they liek what they have –
LOL @ gmcliff…..Fat Albert?…..I know you have stated the case before….I know the Washburn connection, and would believe if he is EVER going to be successful again it would be with Washburn….but we have a quality DL already, why add a possible headache and possible “bad example” for the young guys? I would take a pass on Haynesworth….but I would possibly take a look at Plax for some proven production in the Red-Zone….just a thought.
Albert Haynesworth wll never see an NFL Field again, He’s playing days are over, finished and complete..
2 Players on the Eagles Defensive Roster I see looking from the outside in are
DE Darryl Tapp and DT Mike Patterson who I think may be traded to Teams mid to late Round Draft picks if the Eagles stay healthy this Summer Camp..
I think LB M Fokou, CB J Hanson get flat out released early in camp to allow them time to hook up with another team.. (Coach AR is good about trying to get ex-players spots on other Teams so don’t be surprised to see these 2 players in Fokou/Hanson released sooner rather than later)
Gm, 1 spot is significant with an nfl roster. If you go light at lb, you lose key depth and special teams. Very few, if any teams go with 7 cbs. Ever.
And Haynesworth? Why sign a guy who you wouldn’t play? Dude would be burried on the depth chart. No negativity, you’re just crazy!
Defense 26 Players ( 10 DL, 6 LB, 6 CB, 4 Safety)
Offense 24 Players ( 3 QB, 3 RB, 1 FB, 2 TE 6 WR and 9 OL)
Special Teamers 3 Players (K,P & LS)
LOL!!! Hahahahah!!!!…….I knew I would set you guys off ….alll good points, well stated….I still look for it to happen. Can’t say it will, but I look for it to happen at some point especially if there is an injury before the season starts.
@greenfan, I have always stated you are a smart man. I understand why you want Plaxico, but he IS somewhat washed up. Not fast, cant seperate to get open to be effective in the red zone; McNutt, and Cooper, will be those options this year.
@ Paul, Shill, and Navy – One love; well just wait, and see brothers. Enjoy the season.
According to one of my sources Casey Matthews looks in great shape and looks totally different then he did last year. I heard hes on the same training program as his brother Clay. Look for him to open eyes in training camp. Dont count him out for taking one of the starting LB spots..
I read the same thing about Matthews too.. He will compete for a SAM Spot andwill definitely be a key back-up and see lots of Snaps in 2012 I believe ..
I’ve read that Matthews,Lindley,Marsh,Dunlap,Watkins,Havilli, Vandervelde,Clayton and Harbor all look in great shape and have added muscle and more tone to their bodies.. Hopefully this translate to when they get on the field..
So he is taking the needle like his brother?
Just kidding. I wish Matthews luck. I want as many quality LBs as possible on the Birds.