Marcus Epps has officially earned a starting position in the Philadelphia Eagles’ secondary, although Vic Fangio plans to continue moving his defensive backs throughout multiple packages. Fangio confirmed Epps as the starting safety after the veteran delivered a steady offseason and training camp.
“He was just solid the whole way through,” Fangio said during his Thursday press conference.
Epps returned to Philadelphia practice during the 2025 season after being released by the New England Patriots. He subsequently re-signed with the Eagles and entered the offseason competing for a role in a secondary that added several new pieces. His designation as the starter does not mean Epps will play every defensive snap. Cooper DeJean is expected to align
at safety in Philadelphia’s base package, but Fangio said Epps will remain heavily involved.
The alignment should create an important role for Michael Carter II. The veteran defensive back can play nickel, dime or safety, giving Fangio the freedom to match personnel without making sweeping substitutions.
Vic Fangio and Michael Clay speak with the media. #FlyEaglesFly https://t.co/HzCt9FSJAk
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 10, 2026
“Michael is very versatile,” Fangio said. “Can play nickel, can play dime, can play safety and we plan on using him.”
Philadelphia can use DeJean near the line of scrimmage, move Carter based on matchups, and rely on Epps as an experienced presence on the back end. The depth chart identifies the starters, but Fangio’s defense will depend on roles more than labels. Epps earned the first opportunity, while Carter’s versatility should ensure he remains part of the weekly plan.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Marcus Epps earns Eagles’ starting safety job in versatile secondary
