Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has sparked team morale with a homemade ‘Meatball Award,’ using a secret family recipe to reward top defensive players after victories. This quirky tradition coincides with the Eagles’ dominant defensive performance as they enter the NFL playoffs.
Vic Fangio, the Eagles’ veteran defensive coordinator, introduced the Meatball Award this season to add a personal touch to player recognition. After each win, Fangio presents a plate of meatballs and pasta to the defensive player of the game, as selected by the coaching staff, excluding the official player of the game chosen by head coach Nick Sirianni. The award is delivered in a brown paper bag during defensive meetings, typically on Mondays, with little ceremony but much appreciation from the players.
The meatballs are made from a recipe passed down through Fangio’s family, originating from his Italian grandparents who immigrated to the United States in 1919. Fangio has laminated the recipe and displays it in his home, keeping specific ingredients a closely guarded secret. He prepares batches of 60-75 meatballs at a time, involving a combination of ground beef, pork, parmesan cheese, and a tomato-based sauce, with tweaks over the years to perfect the flavor.
Players who have received the award, such as defensive end Brandon Graham and defensive tackle Jalen Carter, praise the meatballs’ quality. Graham, a self-described foodie, rated them a ‘7 out of 10,’ while others like cornerback Cooper DeJean simply noted they were ‘good.’ The award has become a coveted symbol of defensive excellence, with players like corner Adoree’ Jackson refusing to try the meatballs until they earn them, emphasizing the competitive spirit it fosters.
Beyond the culinary aspect, the Meatball Award represents a shift in Fangio’s coaching demeanor. Known for his no-nonsense, business-like approach, Fangio has shown a softer side this season, engaging more personally with players. This gesture, along with his efforts to discuss finances and well-being, has helped build rapport and trust within the defensive unit, contributing to a cohesive team environment.
Under Fangio’s leadership, the Eagles defense has been statistically dominant. Since he joined in 2024, the unit ranks first in the NFL in points allowed per game (18.3), defensive efficiency (68.0), and net yards per attempt (5.7), and second in yards per play (4.9) and yards per game (296.9). This performance has been key to the Eagles’ success, including their Super Bowl victory last season and their current playoff berth.
As the Eagles prepare to host the San Francisco 49ers in the wild-card round of the playoffs, the defense is poised to be a central factor. Fangio’s scheme, often imitated across the league, has been masterfully executed, with players likening him to ‘Mr. Miyagi’ for his strategic expertise. The Meatball Award, while a lighthearted tradition, underscores the attention to detail and personal investment that define his coaching philosophy.
Looking ahead, if the Eagles advance in the playoffs, the Meatball Award may continue to motivate players. Fangio, who hopes Philadelphia will be his final coaching stop, has created a legacy of excellence, blending old-school discipline with new-school camaraderie. This unique blend of tradition and innovation could propel the Eagles toward another championship, proving that sometimes, the way to a player’s heart—and peak performance—is through a plate of meatballs.
