Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Juan Castillo knows his defense finished the 2011 season on a good pace, allowing just 11.5 points and 265 yards per game during the final four contests.

Castillo also knows that the Birds' defense can't rest on their laurels going into the 2012 season. Castillo said about the benefit of having an offseason and an infusion of talent to the defense:

"I don't think there's ever been an excuse. I think it's time. It's time for us to do what we're here to do. I think everybody knows that. There's never been any excuses. It's time to get our jobs done."

Speaking about one of the Eagles' new players, linebacker DeMeco Ryans, Castillo said Ryans has become a leader during OTAs, "He is that guy already. He's a competitor. He likes challenges. He understands the scheme and the things that we have to do."

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