The Eagles hosted 50,000 fans at the Linc today for their first and only public practice. The fireworks were on full display as the crowd roared when welcoming Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, A.J. Brown, and the newest Eagle, Saquon Barkley.
It was the first time that Eagles fans were able to see the former first-round pick in midnight green. After all of the backlash faced by Giants fans this offseason, I’m sure the cheers were a welcoming sight. The Eagles wasted no time showing off the new backfield tandem of Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley.
On the offense’s first drive of 11 on 11, Hurts handed it off to Barkley followed by a QB draw on the next play. The offense looked completely in sync but also reserved as Kellen Moore will surely save his best for the season.
Hurts had a nice burst in step and had great pocket awareness as he rolled out then launched a deep pass to A.J. Brown for a 40-yard completion. The drive ended on a Dallas Goedert touchdown but it was a nice drive to quench the thirst of Eagles’ fans for some time.
On their second drive, the offense showed a couple of new wrinkles that will be added to the scheme this season. From motion to even having Jalen under center. It was a sight for sore eyes that will look to deliver on the promise of a rebounding season.
Key Eagles to watch
The Eagles featured several players that you should keep your eye on. It looks like the WR3 battle is deeper than imagined as Britain Covey and Johnny Wilson are fighting for the spot as well. Covey has been the Eagles kick returner over the last two seasons and is looking to expand his role within the offense.
The young receiver has been studying players like Cole Beasley, who excelled in Moore’s offense with the Cowboys. Covey could be a surprise if he’s able to show his true potential.
Another player to keep an eye on is Nakobe Dean who played with the starters tonight. It’s been long rumored that Dean was behind Baun and White but tonight he lined up alongside Devin White. He was unfortunately caught in a blender when he went up against Kenny Gainwell but one bad play shouldn’t concern fans. Health will be the key to his success.
Last but not least is Dallas Goedert. Goedert seems to be the forgotten one in this offense who may finally break out with the impact that a player like Barkley will have on defenses. Goedert scored two touchdowns on Thursday night and reminded fans that he is still around. Unfortunately, he is another player that’s been battling injuries throughout his career.
If he’s able to stay healthy then we can see a big impact from him on the offense. There was once upon a time when Hurts heavily relied on the Eagles’ tight end. This could be the Renaissance season.
The Jalen Hurts revenge tour
It’s been reported several times that Hurts has looked terrific during training camp. The Eagles franchise QB has been written off by so many people this offseason that I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s the toast of the town by January.
He was plagued by turnovers and a bland offense last season but has taken that down year personally and it’s evident. From focusing on making this offense his to hearing how Kellen Moore has built the scheme around him. There’s no question that this could be a big year for the Eagles QB but can he finally silence his critics or take the Eagles back to the Super Bowl?
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
