Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis made franchise history this week by becoming the first player in Eagles history to earn both the NFC Defensive Player of the Week and Special Teams Player of the Week honors in the same season. This remarkable achievement highlights the success Davis has experienced during what he describes as a career year.
In the Eagles’ recent 16-9 victory over the Detroit Lions on November 19, 2023, Davis played a crucial role by batting down three passes. His earlier recognition as Special Teams Player of the Week came after he blocked a field goal and returned it for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 3. These performances underscore why Davis, a first-round pick from Georgia in 2022, is having his best season yet.
Davis has recorded six batted passes and three sacks over 10 games this season. Among 105 defensive tackles who have played at least 200 snaps, his Pro Football Focus (PFF) defensive grade ranks an impressive 14th. This season marks a significant turnaround for the 25-year-old, who struggled early in his career.
In an effort to improve his performance, Davis lost 26 pounds during the offseason, and the results have been evident on the field. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni praised Davis for his dedication and resilience, stating, “Proud of him because I think what a great example of the world that we live in today, (people want) instant gratification. He had to go through some ups and downs… He’s got himself in the best shape of his life.”
Davis shared his thoughts on receiving the NFC Defensive Player of the Week honor. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “At the end of the day, it wouldn’t mean as much without those guys that I play with. Not even just what we do on the field. It’s the juice and the energy and the time that we spend together.” This perspective highlights the camaraderie within the team and Davis’s commitment to collective success.
He further noted, “I really want to make sure the real recognition goes to the team. Because I wouldn’t be at my greatest, I wouldn’t have my success, I wouldn’t be at my peak without the team. The biggest reason why I wanted to change my body and change the way that I play was because of the team.”
As the Eagles continue their season, Davis’s contributions will be vital in their pursuit of success. His journey reflects not only personal growth but also the spirit of teamwork that drives the franchise forward.
