Mandatory Minicamp is in the books and the NovaCare Complex will close its gates until Training Camp. It’s been an important spring for the Eagles, following on from a stunning offseason of acquisition. But what have we learned about the team throughout OTA’s? Here are ten takeaways to ponder as the wait for Training Camp begins.
Carson Wentz is out for revenge
One of the first things those in attendance were quick to notice this offseason was the mobility of Carson Wentz. At this point one year ago, Wentz was sorely limited after tearing his ACL in week 14 of the season prior. But with no knee brace in sight, Wentz has been carving up the NovaCare Complex.
The chemistry with DeSean Jackson drew plenty of attention throughout OTA’s, with Wentz confidently slinging the ball once more, moving effortlessly through drills and throwing without any visible limitations.
Then, his life changed forever. Wentz signed a four-year extension with the Eagles worth $128M.
” I’m happy to be here, happy to be in this city long-term.” Wentz told reporters shortly after the long-term deal was announced. “You can play the ‘what if’ game a million different ways, and I don’t get too caught up in that. We talked through it, we thought through it. Wanted to reach something that was fair both for me and my family, but also for this team and the organization for the future. I don’t think I’ll have any regrets. I’m really excited to be here and hopefully do something special for a while.”
Spring couldn’t have gone any better for the man with the most guaranteed money in NFL history and that can only mean good things for an offense that is looking terrifying at this early stage.
Malcolm Jenkins won’t let his desire for a new contract get in the way
One of the big narratives of the spring was the still-pending Malcolm Jenkins contract extension.
Jenkins skipped voluntary workouts and many assumed that it was due to the 31-year old seeking a payday. Surprisingly, Jenkins showed up for mandatory minicamp and made it clear he wouldn’t let his desire for a new deal hurt the team.
He told reporters that he believes he has ‘outplayed’ his current deal, and it’s hard to really say otherwise given just how incredibly valuable he’s been to this team. But the maturity of Jenkins to separate that from an essential part of the offseason, speaks volumes. There’s no ‘diva-like’ holdout here…and that can only be admired.
Cornerback competition will be vicious
With Ronald Darby and Jalen Mills both missing OTA’s due to rehabbing injuries sustained last year, Avonte Maddox, Sidney Jones, and Rasul Douglas have been the beneficiaries of first-team exposure. And unsurprisingly, they’ve made every snap count.
Maddox has earned stellar praise over the last couple of weeks, lining up just about everywhere, while Sidney Jones and Rasul Douglas have both enjoyed numerous flashes.
While it’s unlikely Ronald Darby’s spot is in jeopardy, there is a chance that the CB2/3 roles could be up for grabs. The Eagles aren’t financially committed to Jalen Mills in the way they are to Darby and if Maddox or Douglas, who have longer contracts with the team, are playing better, you have to put your best foot forward.
Just like last year, the cornerback competition will be vicious. Only this time, Jones, Douglas, and Maddox, are coming off a run of starts at the end of 2018 due to injuries elsewhere. A run they will be looking continue into next season.
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