As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes are on Cam Jurgens, the new center stepping into the substantial shoes of veteran Jason Kelce. While Kelce's legacy looms large, Jurgens is determined to create his own path on the gridiron.
Jurgens, who has played just 43 snaps at center in his two NFL seasons, faces a daunting task. Despite not having started a single game at center for the Eagles, his journey on the offensive line has been impressive. Over the past two years, Jurgens has taken on various roles, showcasing his versatility and resilience. Notably, he secured the starting right guard spot last year, a position in which he excelled.
The 2022 season was a testament to Jurgens' capabilities. Out of 631 pass-blocking snaps, he didn't allow a single sack—an impressive feat that speaks volumes about his skill and discipline. Additionally, he conceded just 18 pressures, maintaining a pressure rate allowed per dropback of 4.9%. These statistics underscore Jurgens' potential and give fans reason to be optimistic about his transition back to his natural position at center.
The Kelce Comparison
Replacing a player like Jason Kelce is no small feat, and the comparisons are inevitable. Eagles teammate Landon Dickerson acknowledges the shadow that Kelce casts but believes Jurgens is up to the challenge. "He's gonna hear it from you guys all the time. That's gonna happen," Dickerson said. "No offense, you guys got used to that and that's gonna be your comparison. And so, he's handling that extremely well. It's not trying to replace Kelce. Cam's gonna make his own legacy, his own path, his own destiny. He's gonna be Cam Jurgens. His name is not Jason Kelce. He's not gonna try to be 62. He's gonna do what Cam Jurgens does."
Transition and Communication
The transition from guard to center is never easy, but Jurgens appears to be managing it well. "Cam's creating his own path right now. Really smart guy, physical guy, strong guy. Moves well. He's handling this transition from going from guard and a little bit of center last year to playing center right now. Communication has been good," Dickerson added. The ability to communicate effectively on the field is crucial, especially in a position as pivotal as center. Jurgens' teammates are optimistic about his ability to fill this role seamlessly.
Team Dynamics and Personnel Changes
Jurgens isn't the only new piece in the Eagles' puzzle this offseason. The team has seen several personnel changes, including the addition of Mekhi Becton. Such changes necessitate constant communication and adaptability among the players. As Dickerson notes, "You never know what happens when guys get hurt right? You're rotating guys in. Mekhi's [Becton] coming in. We got guys stepping in at different tackle (spots). Changing up the group. Just the way he's been able to handle the communication and different guys get out there, you never know what's gonna happen. I think he's done a tremendous job so far of just (providing) clear communication to everybody and setting the standard of how things are supposed to be done in the huddle before we get them the ball. He's handling it great."
For Cam Jurgens, the road ahead is paved with challenges and opportunities. The weight of replacing a legend like Jason Kelce is significant, but Jurgens has already proven he has the talent and poise to tackle this new chapter. With the support of his teammates and the experience gained from his versatile playing history, Jurgens is well-positioned to rise to the occasion and chart his own legacy with the Philadelphia Eagles.