The NFC East is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL this year and the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles are at the front of the pack. The Commanders have been smart in addressing their weaknesses this offseason and the Eagles are hellbent on defending their Super Bowl title and maintaining their control over the division.
But the New York Giants—despite years of underachieving—are making things interesting by helping the Eagles out through free agency. Most recently, linebacker Azeez Ojulari joined the Eagles to make their defense even stronger.
The Eagles are Running the Show in the NFC East
The Philadelphia Eagles have been the team to beat in the NFC East for years and their moves in free agency suggest they aren’t slowing down. After winning their second Super Bowl in franchise history the Eagles have continued to build a loaded roster by signing players like Saquon Barkley, Adoree’ Jackson and now Azeez Ojulari. With their existing core they’re a tough out for any team in the division.
But the Washington Commanders aren’t backing down. They’ve made big strides this offseason to close the gap and are focusing on their defensive line and offensive consistency. Two teams vying for the top spot makes for a fun division.
Why the Commanders Could Be the Eagles Biggest Threat?
The Commanders have shown they mean business. They’ve addressed their weaknesses from last season and are for real. With their new roster and coaching staff they have a shot to dethrone the Eagles. But it’s not just the Eagles that’s in their way, it’s also the ripple effect of the Giants’ roster moves.
Giants Exodus to Philadelphia: A Blow to the Division
The New York Giants have had a rough few seasons, they’ve been unable to find stability on and off the field. Their struggles were exacerbated last offseason when they lost star running back Saquon Barkley in free agency and he signed with their division rival the Eagles. This trend has continued with key players like cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and linebacker Patrick Johnson also signing with the Eagles.
Now another former Giant has joined the Eagles: linebacker Azeez Ojulari. He was a 2nd round pick in the 2021 NFL draft and was supposed to be a cornerstone of the Giants defense. However injuries and inconsistent playing time limited his impact in New York.
Azeez Ojulari’s Career So Far
In four seasons with the Giants, Ojulari has started 30 games and has:
- 107 tackles (21 for loss)
- 37 quarterback hits
- 22 sacks
- 4 forced fumbles
- 3 fumble recoveries
Not great for a second round pick but his potential is still there. His health has been his biggest issue but a fresh start in Philly could be the spark to get his career going.
How this affects the NFC East?
Ojulari’s addition makes the Eagles defense even better. His ability to disrupt offenses fits in with the Eagles aggressive style of play. For the Commanders this means breaking through the Eagles defense will be even tougher.
Giants Further Weakened
Losing Ojulari is another blow to the Giants who are already in rebuild mode. They brought in Brian Burns to bolster the pass rush but his presence overshadowed Ojulari’s role and ultimately led to his departure. The Giants struggles continue to benefit the Eagles and create an imbalance in the division.
Commanders Opportunity
With the Giants out of the mix the Commanders have a chance to be the Eagles primary rival but they’ll have to execute their game plan perfectly to overcome the Eagles loaded roster.