5 Philadelphia Eagles Players Who Will Lead the Team to the Super Bowl

The Philadelphia Eagles have been a powerhouse throughout the 2024 NFL season, solidifying themselves as one of the top teams in the league. With the NFC East title already in hand and a guaranteed No. 2 seed heading into the postseason, the Eagles are poised to make another deep playoff run. However, the road to the Super Bowl will be anything but easy, with formidable opponents such as the Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Rams, and Minnesota Vikings standing in their way in the NFC. If they make it to the final stage, they could face AFC giants like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, or Los Angeles Chargers.

To navigate this treacherous path, the Eagles will rely heavily on the performances of key players who have been instrumental throughout the season. These five players will be crucial in Philadelphia’s quest to secure another Super Bowl title.

1. Zack Baun – Linebacker
One of the most impactful offseason acquisitions, Zack Baun has transformed the Eagles’ linebacker corps. Signed on a one-year, $3.5 million deal, Baun has been a revelation, providing much-needed stability to a position that has long been a weakness for Philadelphia.

Baun leads the team with 151 total tackles, including 11 tackles for loss, five forced fumbles, four pass deflections, and 3.5 sacks. His versatility and ability to cover both running backs and tight ends make him an invaluable asset, especially during high-stakes playoff games when defenses must be sharp against multifaceted offenses. Pro Football Focus (PFF) has recognized Baun’s stellar play, giving him an overall grade of 90.1, ranking him first among 183 eligible linebackers, along with a 91.7 coverage grade, also first in the league.

As teams shift towards run-heavy approaches in the colder months, Baun’s instinctive play and tackling prowess will be crucial in shutting down opposing ground games. His knack for creating turnovers adds another layer of impact, potentially swinging the momentum in tight playoff battles.

2. Jalen Hurts – Quarterback
No playoff run is complete without the quarterback leading the charge, and Jalen Hurts has consistently proven he can rise to the occasion. Hurts’ dual-threat ability has given defenses nightmares, amassing over 4,200 passing yards and 750 rushing yards this season, with a combined 38 touchdowns. His leadership, poise, and ability to perform under pressure have been defining characteristics of the Eagles’ success.

Hurts’ chemistry with wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith makes the Eagles’ passing attack one of the most dangerous in the league. Additionally, his ability to extend plays with his legs allows the offense to thrive even when protection breaks down. In high-pressure playoff scenarios, Hurts’ decision-making and clutch performances will be key to the Eagles’ success.

3. Lane Johnson – Right Tackle
A rock on the offensive line, Lane Johnson’s elite play at right tackle has anchored the Eagles’ protection schemes. Johnson has yet to allow a sack this season, and his ability to neutralize elite pass rushers will be vital as the Eagles face defensive juggernauts in the postseason.

His experience and leadership also serve as an essential guiding force for the younger players on the line. With playoff football often being decided in the trenches, Johnson’s continued dominance will ensure Hurts has the time and space needed to operate at a high level.

4. Saquon Barkley – Running Back
The addition of Saquon Barkley to the Eagles’ offense has added a dynamic element to their ground game. Barkley has rushed for over 2,000 yards this season, breaking tackles and creating explosive plays that keep defenses honest. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds another dimension, making him a dual-threat weapon.

In the postseason, controlling the clock and managing the pace of the game becomes crucial, and Barkley’s presence allows the Eagles to dictate terms on the ground. His knack for delivering in big moments will be critical when the stakes are highest.

5. Darius Slay – Cornerback
On the defensive side, Darius Slay remains the anchor of the Eagles’ secondary. With five interceptions and 18 pass breakups this season, Slay continues to shut down some of the league’s best wide receivers. His ability to lock down one side of the field simplifies defensive schemes and allows more aggressive play-calling up front.

In matchups against elite passing offenses like those of the Chiefs or Bills, Slay’s coverage will be crucial. His veteran presence and playmaking ability in clutch situations could be the difference between advancing to the next round or heading home early.

The Path Ahead
As the Eagles gear up for the postseason, the contributions of these five players will be instrumental in determining how far they advance. Each of them brings a unique skill set that complements the team’s overall strengths, and together, they form the backbone of Philadelphia’s championship aspirations. With their eyes set on another Super Bowl victory, the Eagles’ journey will undoubtedly be fueled by the performances of these standout stars.