2017 NFL Power Rankings: Preseason Edition

9. Philadelphia Eagles, 2.34 nERD

Despite a 7-9 record and a last-place finish in the NFC East, the Philadelphia Eagles had the second-best point differential (+36) in the division and were third in nERD in the division with a mark of 1.72.

Also despite the 7-9 record, the same mark as they had in 2015, they were a markedly better squad. In 2015, their nERD was -3.36, and their point differential was -53. Philadelphia underachieved in 2016 by these marks.

Offensively, they ranked 20th by Adjusted NEP per play (23rd in passing and 12th in rushing), a small jump from their 23rd-place finish in 2015. The defense is what made them a more efficient squad. Philadelphia ranked 5th by Adjusted Defensive NEP per play (2nd against the pass and 17th against the run), after finishing 14th in 2015.

I know what you're thinking: they were second against the pass with that secondary? Well, yes. They were 11th in adjusted sack rate by FootballOutsiders' metrics and relied on the pass rush rather than the cornerbacks. Philly took the seventh-most NEP off the board by way of the sack in 2017.

The Eagles did address the secondary in the draft -- after taking defensive end Derek Barnett 14th overall -- by lucking out with cornerback Sidney Jones 43rd overall. They also added cornerback Rasul Douglas 99th overall.

The pressure will be on the secondary to improve, but Carson Wentz (0.06 Passing NEP per drop back and a 44.15% Success Rate) has plenty of room to grow, as well. Expect the Eagles to get back to .500 and beyond.