With the Eagles knee deep in training camp and the first preseason game only days away, here’s a little update on who’s making a statement, who’s looking good and who’s fighting for a job.
I’ll get the pink elephant in the room out of the way first. Carson Wentz. If everyone wasn’t so worried about his knee and whether or not he’ll start Week 1, the storyline for Wentz would be “what an amazing camp he is having”. He spent the offseason getting married, putting on muscle and fanatically rehabbing his knee. He came into camp sharp with increased velocity on his throws and mobility like he never got hurt. As excited as everyone was the doctors had to be the wet blanket. The docs had to remind Wentz and the coaches that he wasn’t cleared for contact or risk of contact. So Wentz has been limited lately, but still impressive.
The offense as a whole has been pretty good, but the defense has won more than they have lost. One thing that is apparent is the depth at WR. What was once a glaring weakness is now a major strength. Nelson Agholar is just moving at a different speed than everybody else. He took a short slant pass to the house with astounding ease.
Another WR turning heads is Shelton Gibson. Last training camp Gibson dropped more passes than he caught. The only reason he got a roster spot in training camp was
At the running back position, Jay Ajayi is in great shape and primed for a big season in his contract year. Corey Clement is cemented as the #2 RB and looking forward to an increased role. Darren Sproles is back to his old explosive self and is looking to put the final touches on his stellar career. Wendell Smallwood, Donnell Pumphrey and Josh Adams fight for the last RB position with no clear
The offensive line will bring back the same starting 5 from Week 1 last season. They’re poised to be one of the best offensive line units in the NFL again. Matt Pryor a sixth round pick this year is the hot name to watch. The versatile G/T has solidified himself with the second team already and shows serious upside.
The defense has shown signs of dominance. New addition Michael Bennett is already providing veteran leadership and major pass rush. Fletcher Cox has stated that his goal is to win defensive player of the year and he has the talent to do it. Rookie Josh Sweat has opened eyes with his astonishing speed off the edge, and Derrick Barnett is set to make a big leap into the starting lineup in his second year.
At linebacker, playmaker, Jordan Hicks is back and fully healed from his torn Achilles. Before injury Hicks averaged a turnover almost every other game, a real testament to his coverage ability and nose for the football. Nigel Bradham is back to solidify a highly underrated LB duo. The fight for the 3rd LB position is between two converted Safeties Kamu Grugier-Hill and Nathan Gerry. Both excel in coverage and are fast and physical. It’ll be interesting to watch as the preseason goes on.
In the secondary, second-year CB Sidney Jones is proving to be quite the steal. Totally healthy now, Jones is currently playing the Slot CB position and is dropping jaws. Ronald Darby and Jalen Mills are your starters on the outside and each has put together the best training camp of their career according to coaches.
The safety position stays the same with team leader Malcolm Jenkins leading the way and Rodney McCleod as his partner. Veteran CB/S Corey Graham was just signed back allowing Jenkins the freedom to roam around and wreak havoc on opposing offenses like last season. Former practice squad player Tre Sullivan is pushing for the 4th Safety spot and is looking good.
On Special teams, second year kicker Jake Elliott hasn’t missed a kick yet and punter Cameron Johnston has come on as of late.
Now you’re all caught up! Let’s see how they look in the real games now.
Eugene Holt is a Writer for Couch Rider Report. Follow us on Instagram,Facebook or Twitter.
