The Eagles opened the 2025 pre-season with a 34–27 win over the Bengals, and while the scoreboard won’t count come September, the effort will. Cincinnati trotted out its starters for the entire first quarter, and for the most part, it was Philadelphia’s backups who stood toe-to-toe with them. From Tanner McKee’s command at quarterback to a handful of young receivers rising to the occasion, this was less about August football and more about opportunity and challenging for a roster spot. Many young players, rookies, and UDFAs made the most of it!
Eagles offense:
QB Tanner McKee
McKee looked exactly like the guy who’s stacked excellent reps at practice and in limited games. He was decisive, efficient, exciting, and unfazed. He led an impressive 75-yard touchdown drive, scored on a crowd-pleasing tush push, and finished the night 20 of 25, good for 252 yards and two touchdowns.
QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson
DTR came in with poise, moving the offense efficiently and finishing 5-of-8 for 56 yards. Nothing flashy, but he kept the tempo and avoided mistakes. He has a big arm and a lot of mobility. He is fighting for QB3 on the 53.
QB Kyle McCord
The Eagles’ rookie was 1 of 5 with a pick in his NFL Debut. Chalk it up as experience; the box score won’t impress, but the reps matter.
RB Will Shipley
Shipley’s burst jumps off the screen. He had 48 yards on seven carries, including a 38-yard breakaway. He still has to prove himself in pass pro, but there’s no question he brings a different gear.
RB ShunDerrick Powell
Played well, showing off nifty moves and a nose for the endzone. He finished the night with 32 yards, including a 19-yard scamper, on 6 carries and a touchdown.
WR Jahan Dotson
He made it look easy in the first quarter in his limited play with 2 receptions, on 2 targets, good for 27 yards. He showed easy separation and crisp route running. A WR3 luxury for the Birds.
WR Darius Cooper
Cooper keeps stacking moments. The undrafted rookie from Tarleton State plays with poise and confidence. Darius hauled in 6 receptions for 82 yards and a TD. One of the more impressive performers on the night.
WR Johnny Wilson
Wilson finally used his 6-foot-6 height to cause a matchup problem that fans have been waiting for. He caught all three targets for 73 yards and made one of the more exciting grabs of the night.
WR Ainias Smith
Smith hauled in a 6-yard touchdown grab and electrified the crowd with a 46-yard punt return that flipped the field. The second-year wideout/returner played well and is fighting for a roster spot.
C Drew Kendall
Kendall started at center and held the middle well. No major issues, and he kept the offense moving. An impressive showing from the versatile rookie.
Eagles defense:
DT Ty Robinson
Robinson, the Vanilla Gorilla, notched his first preseason sack! He has been impressing with his strength and play in camp. The Eagles felt comfortable trading from the position, Thomas Booker IV, from a perceived position of strength, to add to the corner room. Ty should get his share of snaps on the Eagles defense this season.
LB Smael Mondon
Mondon logged four tackles, though his night was a mix of flashes and frustrations for him. He gained valuable experience and seemed to play better as the game progressed. He is showing impressive promise.
LB Jihaad Campbell
Campbell rotated in on the second series and was active early, finishing with three tackles in limited snaps. He was beating himself up over missing out on an interception, but the Alabama product will have a lot more opportunities when the games matter!
S Drew Mukuba
Mukuba was in uniform for warmups but didn’t see any action. He was a limited participant throughout the week while working his way back from a shoulder injury. Sydney Brown left with what appeared to be a shoulder issue as well. If neither of them is ready, safety could be an issue early. Justin Simmons is likely waiting for the Eagles to call.
OLB/Edge Patrick Johnson
Johnson made the most of his reps. He flashed off the edge and grabbed an interception. Welcome back to Philly.
CB Kelee Ringo
Ringo struggled to contain JaMarr Chase, but who doesn’t? He and Adoree had an up-and-down evening and will likely battle Eagles’ newcomer Jakorian Bennett for the right to play outside opposite Quinyon Mitchell once the season begins.
CB Mac McWilliams
Started the night in the NCB/slot and played some outside. His most noticeable play came on special teams, where he got out in front of Ainias Smith’s 46-yard punt return. He will continue to grow and is an exciting player.
As always, thank you for reading!
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Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
