The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the 2024 NFL season with several fresh faces and a renewed sense of purpose. As the team reports to training camp, head coach Nick Sirianni steps into his new role, guiding a roster laden with talent and Super Bowl aspirations. Joining him on the coaching staff are Kellen Moore, who takes over as offensive coordinator, and Vic Fangio, the new defensive coordinator.
Key Roster Changes
Retirement has led to a reshuffling in the Eagles' lineup. Long-time stalwarts Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox have hung up their cleats, leaving significant gaps to fill. To bolster their chances, the Eagles have secured several key signings. Among the new additions are Saquon Barkley, Bryce Huff, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Barkley, in particular, comes with high expectations, having inked a $12.5 million-per-year deal and proving his mettle as a 1,000-yard rusher last season.
But the changes don't stop there. Quarterback Jalen Hurts returns to lead the offense, while the defense sees the arrival of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean in the secondary. The linebacker corps also gets a facelift, with the departures of Zach Cunningham and Nicholas Morrow being offset by the acquisitions of Devin White and Oren Burks. Nakobe Dean, though talented, has struggled with injuries, adding to the importance of these new additions.
Strengthening the Secondary
In the secondary, the Eagles boast a mix of youth and experience. Newcomers like Kelee Ringo, Isaiah Rodgers, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean join veterans Darius Slay and James Bradberry, who are both now in their 30s. There is talk of Bradberry potentially moving to safety, a role that Reed Blankenship and Cooper DeJean are also capable of playing.
Ringo, a fourth-round pick last year, and Mitchell, the 22nd pick in the most recent draft, bring fresh energy to the cornerback position. DeJean, for whom the Eagles traded up in the second round, adds further depth and versatility to the secondary.
Offensive and Defensive Changes
The Eagles' offense will look different this season. Haason Reddick was traded, and Josh Sweat's contract was restructured. Additionally, the team will miss Quez Watkins, who did not return after the 2023 season. Parris Campbell is being positioned for the WR3 role, and John Ross is attempting a comeback after a three-year absence from regular-season play.
On the ground, the Eagles need to improve their run game, which ranked 19th in yards per carry (4.1) and 32nd in yards after contact per rush (2.32) since Week 4 last season. The addition of Barkley, alongside a strong performer like D'Andre Swift, will be crucial in this regard. Mekhi Becton and Tyler Steen are competing for the starting right guard spot, with Steen currently holding first-team reps.
Veteran Leadership and Rookie Impact
Veteran presence remains strong with Brandon Graham, now 35, expected to return for his final season. Graham’s leadership will be invaluable to a team that looks to integrate several young players. Last season, Nolan Smith made his mark with four tackles and a quarterback hit in just 16 snaps during the Eagles' wild card playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, indicating his potential to contribute significantly this year.
The Eagles' investments in securing A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith highlight their commitment to maintaining a powerful and dynamic roster. Both players have shown they can make an impact, adding to the overall talent that places the Eagles among the most formidable teams in the NFL.
As training camp progresses, the Philadelphia Eagles are poised for an exciting season, blending seasoned veterans with promising newcomers. Under the new leadership of Nick Sirianni, Kellen Moore, and Vic Fangio, the team’s path to the Super Bowl is laden with potential and high expectations.