Throughout the season, Fletcher Cox has not been subtle when voicing his displeasures with the Philadelphia Eagles defense. Following the team’s embarrassing loss to the Las Vegas Raiders earlier today, Cox discussed his role at defensive tackle. When talking about his responsibilities, Cox didn’t seem to be too pleased.

“I don’t get paid to play screens. I get paid to get sacks.”

Jonathan Gannon’s defense has been downright horrible, and his schematic decisions are certainly confusing. Gannon feels this defense is at its best when playing conservative and not letting up any big plays. As a result, no blitzes are ever called, and the defense allows ten-play drives that end in touchdowns like clockwork.

“As a player I didn’t agree with what was called on defense, so I let my frustration go”

Fletcher Cox has had a down season, but it’s hard to disagree with him on this comment at all. One of the main reasons his stats are so low is because of Gannon’s schemes, and he has hurt a majority of this defense. Earlier this season, Cox said this about constantly having to change roles in the Eagles’ defense.

“Sometimes I play in the 3-technique, sometimes I play in the 4i,” Cox said. “It’s just one of them things where it’s hard to get settled in, in a game when you’re playing so many positions and doing so many things.”

Against the Raiders tonight, Fletcher Cox had just two tackles in an overall poor performance by the defense. If these games continue to unfold the same way, it wouldn’t be shocking if Jonathan Gannon is out by the end of the season. As for Cox, he has a hefty contract but has still shown flashes that he can be a productive player for Philadelphia.

Mandatory Credit: USA Today