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NFL Network has been running their annual offseason fluff series featuring a ranking of the league’s top 100 ranked football players. Prior to Monday night, two Philadelphia Eagles players made the list. Now another Eagles player has joined that group. Checking in at No. 38 overall is Eagles defensive tackle Fletcher Cox.
Fletcher Cox No.38 on NFL's Top 100
— John Barchard (@JohnBarchard) June 6, 2017
https://t.co/hi8Un2CYZU
Cox only ranked 49th on last year’s list, which we argued was too low at the time. It’s good to see Cox getting more respect.
Cox got paid like an elite player last offseason. The Eagles signed him to six-year extension worth up to $102.6 million. Cox wasn’t necessarily that elite difference maker the Eagles needed him to be last year. He certainly wasn’t bad by any means, but he wasn’t as dominant as some might have expected given the Eagles’ scheme change that was supposed to feature his strengths. Cox finished with 27 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and one forced fumble last year. He did make the Pro Bowl.
The feeling here is Cox could have a stronger year in 2017. The Eagles added more talent to the defensive line with the acquisitions of Timmy Jernigan, Derek Barnett, and Chris Long. Jenigan should especially help take attention off of Cox given his ability as an interior pass rusher.
In addition to the NFL’s Top 100 list, Pro Football Focus also recently featured Cox on their own Top 50 players list.
Number 50 on the #PFF50? @Eagles star defensive lineman @fcoxx_91 pic.twitter.com/luiOT5yGog
— Pro Football Focus (@PFF) June 4, 2017