Eagles Weekly: The defending NFC Champions wrap up OTAs on a high note

Eagles
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – AUGUST 27: Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni during the National Football League preseason game between the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles on August 27, 2021 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up OTAs this week and will now take some time off until training camp starts in late July. The linebackers stole the show while a former Eagle spoke out about why he left Philadelphia. Philly’s franchise QB, Jalen Hurts, also preached that he’s still the same guy despite having a big offseason in the spotlight.

Here’s the latest news from the last week: 

Eagles OTA Takeaways: Defense wins the day & new linebacker prospect emerges

Eagles
PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 03: Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver Devonta Smith (6) sets up for a play in the first half during the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles on October 03, 2021 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire)

Voluntary workouts are now over from the Novacare Complex and Philadelphia won’t be back on the practice field again until the start of training camp. 

While overreactions should not be happening during this portion of offseason workouts, there is plenty to be excited about from the teams final practice on Thursday afternoon. 

And one roster-bubble player seemingly has stood out from above the rest.


Eagles QB Jalen Hurts says he’s the ‘same guy’ after big offseason

Jalen Hurts
Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts is seen on the sideline during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Dec. 24, 2022, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

Jalen Hurts, sporting a slick Rhude trucker’s hat, addressed the media at the end of Philadelphia’s OTAs on June 8 where he caught everyone up to speed on what has been a hectic three months. Nothing to worry about. He remains the same guy he’s always been.

“I’m the same guy,” Jalen Hurts said when asked specifically about his contract. “Numbers may have changed but same guy. Same approach, same goals, same dreams.”

Then, Jalen Hurts provided the perfect answer to a question regarding all the roster changes. He could have focused on Howie Roseman’s draft class. Or the additions of D’Andre Swift and Rashaad Penny. Or new slot weapon Olamide Zaccheaus. Nope. He singled out one name.

Former Eagles RB Miles Sanders opens up about the team’s heartbreaking loss

Eagles
Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders (26) runs for a touchdown against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

It seems like the Eagles can’t stay out of headlines this offseason. Good or bad, someone is mentioning Philadelphia somewhere. But this person was probably the least expected to sound off on his frustrations with the team.

The Carolina Panthers’ newest running back, Miles Sanders, has voiced his frustrations about his lack of touches in the Super Bowl. If you recall, Kenny Gainwell made the most of his opportunities during Philadelphia’s playoff run despite a career year from Sanders.


The Eagles‘ linebackers have shined bright during voluntary workouts

Eagles
PHILADELPHIA, PA – AUGUST 02: Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean (17) enters the field during training camp on August 2, 2022 at the Novacare Complex in Philadelphia, PA (Photo by John Jones/Icon Sportswire)

Whether it’s Nakobe Dean becoming the play-caller on the defensive side at just 22 years old, or Davion Taylor being coached by his old college coordinator, the linebackers have become a group that has adopted the team’s philosophy in droves. 

“We’re fast, we’re physical, and we’re for each other. I think that they feel that when you have those — being physical — they know that they have an advantage when they step out on the field. So, I think that’s offense, that’s defense, that’s special teams,” head coach Nick Sirianni said following the completion of OTAs.


The Eagles offensive line plays host to the most dominant bromance in the NFL

Eagles
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 05: Philadelphia Eagles guard Landon Dickerson (69) during the National Football League game between the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles on December 5, 2021 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

Relationships have always been key to the Philadelphia Eagles, especially along the offensive line. For a while, there was no greater duo than Evan Mathis and Jason Peters. Brandon Brooks and Lane Johnson took over shortly after, and everyone got along with Jason Kelce. 

But the next budding relationship Philadelphia is watching grow is on the left side of the offensive line. Jordan Mailata and Landon Dickerson have become two of the very best at their position, and in turn, have become best of friends.

Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire