The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up their final practice session before the preseason opener, marking a significant milestone as they prepare for the upcoming season. As the team hit their double-digit practice mark, the weather cleared up, allowing for an uninterrupted 75-minute session, which proved essential for both evaluations and preparations.
Key Absences
Despite the productive session, the Eagles' lineup was without several key players due to injuries. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson missed his second consecutive practice due to a shoulder injury, and linebacker Oren Burks sat out for the ninth straight session because of a knee issue. Additionally, wide receiver Parris Campbell, safety Mekhi Garner, and linebacker Brandon Smith were absent, marking their fourth consecutive absence. None of these injured players are expected to participate in the upcoming preseason game, presenting an opportunity for other squad members to step up.
Among the defensive lineup, Zack Baun and Devin White led the linebacker unit alongside first-teamers. The safety positions were effectively manned by James Bradberry and Reed Blankenship, while Isaiah Rodgers and Darius Slay covered the outside cornerback spots. Quinyon Mitchell showcased his skills as the first-team slot cornerback, drawing attention with his performance.
Standout Moments
Among the standout moments during practice, Grant Calcaterra shined with a touchdown reception from quarterback Jalen Hurts, in addition to snagging a 25-yard pass. Calcaterra also demonstrated his versatility by catching a slant pass from Kenny Pickett. In a notable defensive play, Darius Slay broke up a deep pass from Jalen Hurts intended for Joseph Ngata, underlining the intensity of the practice session.
The offensive line witnessed impressive plays as well. Lane Johnson reinforced his reputation by neutralizing Brandon Graham's rush on three consecutive plays in 11-on-11 situations. Mekhi Becton retained his position as the first-team right guard, while Tyler Steen was sidelined due to an ankle injury.
Eye-catching Effort
Practice sessions are not just about the veterans; young talents and new additions also have crucial roles to play. Britain Covey made a notable catch on an out route against Tristin McCollum and Andre' Sam, showcasing his potential to be a reliable target. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. received verbal commendation from teammate Zack Baun after a crucial defensive stop, emphasizing the collaborative spirit within the team. "Good eyes, Trot! Good eyes!" echoed Baun's encouragement, indicative of the supportive teamwork that fosters growth and performance.
Another emerging player, Moro Ojomo, demonstrated a promising ability to generate interior pressure consistently over the past four practices. Ojomo may well emerge as the fourth defensive tackle, supporting stalwarts Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Milton Williams. This observation is particularly crucial as the Eagles look to bolster their defensive depth for the season ahead.
Preseason Evaluations
With the preseason opener around the corner, the practice sessions served as critical evaluation windows for coaches and management. The 75-minute practice was especially illuminating, offering glimpses of players' readiness and the overall depth of the squad. The standout performances and essential drills are not just preparation but also key indicators of the team's potential.
The attack saw a highlight with Austin Watkins making a diving catch and securing a significant gain against cornerback Josh Jobe, reinforcing his candidacy for a more prominent role. These glimpses of brilliance and resilience reflect the dynamic potential within the Eagles' roster.
As the preseason game approaches, the focus will undoubtedly be on how well the squad depth can handle the intensity and demands of competitive play. This final practice has done more than just prepare the team; it has highlighted crucial areas for improvement while showcasing the strength of the Eagles' lineup. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching, waiting to see how these practice performances translate onto the field.