The majority of the defensive praise and attention after the Eagles' first win of the season went to a couple of rookies (linebacker Jordan Hicks and cornerback Eric Rowe) and a fill-in defensive end (Brandon Bair). It was well deserved, but it also overshadowed the work of two veterans who have been a calming influence during the turbulent start to the season.
It could easily be argued that through three games, safeties Malcolm Jenkins and Walter Thurmond have been the Eagles' two best defensive players. You would not get an argument from Chip Kelly.
"I'm pleased with both Walter and Malcolm," the Eagles coach said Monday.