While things may seem to be spiraling out of control this season, the Eagles still have a chance of taking the NFC East as the Cowboys don’t seem to be much better! Unfortunately, I’m not here to provide hope for their current status, but instead to provide a glimpse of what’s to come for the Eagles after this season.
The future isn’t as hopeless as most seem to think right now. While the Eagles will be facing some tough decisions this offseason in regards to veterans and their contract situations, they’re not as far off as many believe they are and their 2019 draft class plays a huge part in the reason why.
Miles Sanders
It’s evident that the Eagles are all in on the rookie running back and it will pay huge dividends in the coming years. Sanders has proven to be a great dual-threat piece in Pederson’s offense and is currently the only rookie running back to have over 300 yards in receiving, rushing, and in kickoff returns. He’s a special talent that came at a high price for a team that isn’t used to investing in the running back position.
While Sanders will continue to find his footing this season through the ups and downs of being a rookie, it’s easy to forget just how raw his talent is. He only had one full season as starting running back in college. As the Eagles continue to feature Sanders and build on his versatility, he’s only going to get better.
Andre Dillard
Dillard has been stellar for the team this season, don’t let the Seahawks game fool you. Doug Pederson stated in the offseason that Dillard was strictly a left tackle but went back on it by starting the rookie at right tackle on Sunday. The rookie did struggle but it shouldn’t alarm you on his potential. He’s only allowed 4 sacks on 286 snaps this season. He’s gone up against some tough pass rushers such as Khalil Mack and has held his own without any issue. PFF had him as the fifth-highest graded Eagles player on offense against the Bears.
There’s no question that the Eagles have their LT of the future on deck and ready to start. The only question left unanswered is when the rookie tackle will officially be the permanent bodyguard to Wentz’s blindside.
JJ Arcega-Whiteside
Say it with me one time and one time only. The Eagles made the right pick with JJ.
He hasn’t had much of a chance this season outside of dropping the game-winning pass against the Lions but if Pederson is willing to invest some actual playing time for the former Stanford product, I’m sure he’ll thrive. Currently, Whiteside is averaging 17.2 yards per catch which is phenomenal for this current group. He showed the ability to go up and get it against the Seahawks while adding some toe-drag swag to the mix.
You have to believe that if Wentz and JJ can get some actual reps together, then they can turn into a formidable duo for the future of this franchise. Alshon isn’t the 50/50 receiver he once was and whether it’s because of his feelings towards Wentz or his age, it shouldn’t matter anymore because of the arrival of Arcega-Whiteside. Pair him with a unique speed receiver, sprinkle in some confidence, and watch this kid shine.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
