5 bold predictions for Philadelphia Eagles in 2021

2. Josh Sweat will break out for 10+ sacks

Brandon Graham and Fletcher Cox were the two top sack artists for the Eagles in 2020, but both players are on the wrong side of 30. That should open the door for a younger pass rusher to become the team’s top option in 2021.

Derek Barnett is the breakout candidate most fans will have their eye on, but Josh Sweat actually outproduced him last year. The former Florida State standout notched six sacks in his 14 games from the defensive end position.

Sweat doesn’t have the size required to be a standout run defender, but his exceptional speed makes him a nightmare for opposing tackles to handle on obvious passing downs. This should be the year where Sweat breaks out and turns that prodigious potential into actual production on the field.

The big threat to this prediction is that Philadelphia won’t generate enough leads to force opponents to throw all that often. Sweat’s got the athleticism to cash in any chance he gets to rush the passer. Look for him to notch 10+ sacks in 2021.