Eagles' Jernigan: 'I've been waiting to play in this type of scheme'
Timmy Jernigan is ready for his fresh start in Philadelphia.
Acquired this week in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens, the new Eagles defensive lineman now steps into a role that should allow him to get after the quarterback more often.
After playing more of a run-focused role across three seasons in Baltimore, as well as during his time at Florida State beforehand, it's been a long time coming.
"Oh man, I'm excited. (Coach Jim Schwartz) told me it's going to be a big year for me and he has plans for me," Jernigan said at his introductory press conference, according to the team's official website.
"I've been waiting to play in this type of scheme for a while. Being at Florida State for a couple years, we were more of a read (defense) there, then I went to Baltimore and we read a little bit there. Last year in Baltimore we started attacking a little bit more and I had my best year, so it’s going to be exciting."
Jernigan, a second-round pick in 2014, should slide into a starting defensive tackle spot alongside a perennial Pro Bowl talent in Fletcher Cox.
Should a more up-field role allow him to improve upon his sack production, the 24-year-old could create a particularly strong market for himself looking ahead to his first opportunity to hit free agency next offseason.
Jernigan started 26-of-43 appearances with the Ravens, tallying 13 sacks and 91 total tackles.
- With h/t to NFL.com