On Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles practiced for 89 minutes at the NovaCare Complex, fine-tuning their game plan and sharpening their competitive edge. As the team prepares for a joint practice with the New England Patriots later this week in Foxborough, certain dynamics within the squad are coming to light.
The session featured a series of drilled battles that highlighted both individual prowess and team coordination. Wide receiver Devonta Smith tangled with cornerback Quinyon Mitchell in three intense one-on-one scenarios. While Smith successfully snagged a pass in the first round, Mitchell responded with vigor, forcing incompletions in the subsequent matchups.
In another noteworthy face-off, safety Andre Sam outperformed wide receiver Ainias Smith. Meanwhile, Johnny Wilson appeared prominently in WR3 positions, showing strong synergy with quarterback Jalen Hurts by catching a pass in the back corner of the end zone over none other than Quinyon Mitchell.
Veteran wideout A.J. Brown brought excitement to the practice by pulling down a touchdown pass over two defenders in the red zone. He then exuberantly punctuated the feat by kicking the ball onto a neighboring field and emphatically declaring, “Hell no!”
A Display of Defensive Prowess
On the defensive end, Jalyx Hunt was a standout. Hunt not only batted down a pass from Jalen Hurts during the 11-on-11 drills but also contributed significantly during the special teams segment by helping block a punt. Providing insight into Hunt’s exceptional showing, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio remarked, “Jalyx Hunt might have had his best practice of the camp.”
Other defensive actions included Jeremiah Trotter Jr.’s blitz on Kenny Pickett, forcing an incompletion, and his solid pass coverage on running back Saquon Barkley.
Injury Updates and Player Status
Several players remained sidelined due to injuries. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson missed his third practice with a shoulder injury, linebacker Oren Burks marked his 10th absence, and wide receiver Parris Campbell did not participate for the fourth time in a row. Tight ends Albert Okwuegbunam and Grant Calcaterra were also absent. Meanwhile, safety Mekhi Garner and linebacker Brandon Smith had limited participation, as did pass rusher Patrick Johnson, due to a lower leg contusion.
On a more positive note, Mekhi Becton emerged as the current frontrunner for the starting right guard position. Despite throwing up during practice, Becton remained resilient, not missing any plays.
Lineup and Position Battles
Several players demonstrated their potential to secure starting roles. Avonte Maddox took snaps alongside Reed Blankenship in Gardner-Johnson’s absence, while James Bradberry received first-team reps at safety. Zack Baun and Devin White manned the starting linebacker spots, with Nakobe Dean and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. working the second team. Dean also had some action with the first team.
At cornerback, Isaiah Rodgers started opposite Darius Slay, with Kelee Ringo also earning first-team reps. Quinyon Mitchell played the slot cornerback position, showing his adaptability and importance to the team structure. Britain Covey, taking on WR3 duties alongside Johnny Wilson, is firmly established as both a wideout and punt returner, while Wilson's performance suggests a promising path to a roster spot.
Building Momentum
The Eagles' practice exemplified a competitive spirit and provided a glimpse into the depth and talent within the squad. With pivotal position battles heating up, the team is not only fostering internal competition but building momentum and excitement for the upcoming season.