OTA’s are just around the corner and although the drills will lack contact (it’s May, so no pads just yet folks), it’s our first real glimpse at the Eagles since the heartbreaking loss to New Orleans and there is plenty to watch. Here are ten things to keep an eye out for in OTA’s over the next week or two.
Carson Wentz
Today, Ian Rapoport blessed the timelines of Eagles fans with news they’ve probably been wanting to hear for quite sometime now.
Doug Pederson was very quiet at rookie minicamp when asked about the progress Wentz has made this offseason, but it’s encouraging to hear that the franchise quarterback should be involved in the majority of drills.
This offseason is so important for Wentz. Not just from a health perspective, but being able to work closely with Mike Groh, something he was unable to do last year, and click with the offense that is molded around his skillset once more, even OTA’s carry substantial weight. It will be fun to see how Wentz clicks with all his new offensive weapons, including none other than DeSean Jackson.
Running back rotation
Jordan Howard is the new Sheriff in town but there’s also a new deputy. Rookie Miles Sanders enters the fold in what is assumed to be an RB2 role, but the Penn State alum will face stiff competition.
OTA’s are so important for running backs. Corey Clement took them by storm two offseasons ago, forcing himself into the rotation as an undrafted free agent. Boston Scott will be one man looking to follow in a similar path.
Wendell Smallwood could be in danger of losing a spot in the rotation despite growth in each of his three season’s, with 2018 seeing a new career-high in receiving yards. The Eagles running backs have long been hampered by injury and both Smallwood and Clement will have to remain healthy throughout to really cement their claims. But this is an important offseason for both, with their future’s potentially on the line.
