With the Eagles nearing their first preseason clash of the year, Training Camp practices are becoming ever-more important. Here’s everything you need to know from another day down at the NovaCare Complex.
Eagles Injury report
The Eagles are still dealing with a flurry of minor injuries. The most notable is Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, whose shoulder injury sparked some concern from the fanbase. It doesn’t appear to be too serious, but definitely something worth noting given how light depth at the position already is.
Avonte Maddox took CJGJ’s place today, which isn’t a bad thing. It does give the Eagles a way to shoehorn Quinyon Mitchell into the nickel and get him consistent first-team reps.
Elsewhere, Mekhi Becton and Tyler Steen continue their competition for the vacant RG spot, with the former Jets lineman taking first-team reps early on. Both players have had strong chances to secure the role and it will come down to preseason to finalize the starting five – something Lane Johnson is eager to see.
Team is shaping up
Outside of the offensive line battle, other areas on the team are beginning to stabilize. Isaiah Rodgers might well have locked in the CB2 spot, having held his own consistently while James Bradberry works at Safety, and the aforementioned Quinyon Mitchell appears to have his path to a starting role.
The main takeaway for me is the linebackers. We all knew that Devin White would be a starter upon his arrival, but Zack Baun has really stood out as someone that came into the room with smaller expectations but has comfortably surpassed them. I really enjoyed his Saints tape last year and think he could be a valuable piece for this defense under Vic Fangio.
With that said, there are actually reasons for excitement at linebacker. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has put together a string of encouraging practices now and a big performance against Baltimore would go a long way in affirming his spot in the depth chart. The rookie was regarded by many as both a steal and a long-term project, so it will be very interesting to see how far he can climb in year one.
Another standout day for Covey
Of all the Training Camp standouts so far, Britain Covey might be the brightest. The rapid wideout has made a big play on what feels like every single practice at this point, and his speed does give the Eagles something they were otherwise lacking (or at least the finishing touch). Covey has worked hard to carve a role in the Eagles’ offense through impressive special teams play and all signs are pointing towards a player who is ready to take that next step.
Jalen Hurts makes history
Of all the takeaways from today, this is the most impressive. Jalen Hurts has surpassed a truly historic landmark, going 158 passes without an interception, beating last years’ record in the process. I’m sure this will immediately earn him a Gold Jacket, a statue outside the Linc, and free Hoagies for life. Of all the things he’s achieved, this is by far the most incredible.
Sarcasm aside, Jalen Hurts has put together quite the Training Camp. It’s encouraging to see, especially after how last year ended and how much criticism the QB faced as a result. I don’t think he regressed as much as people think, but there was a lot of Meat left on the Bone, and it looks like the former 2nd round pick is hungry.
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
