As the Philadelphia Eagles approach the final stretch of their training camp at the NovaCare Complex, the anticipation and stakes are escalating. Entering the final week of preparation, the Eagles have only three consecutive practices remaining before their last preseason game. The clock is ticking towards next Tuesday's roster cuts, adding an extra layer of urgency to their practice sessions.
On Tuesday, the Eagles participated in a practice session lasting precisely one hour and forty-seven minutes, sporting shells and shorts. However, the session wasn’t without its notable absences. Missing from the field were key players including OL Matt Hennessy, TE Albert Okwuegbunam, S Caden Sterns, WR John Ross, OL Tyler Steen, and WR Johnny Wilson. Conversely, there were some positive returns; DT Gabe Hall, TE E.J. Jenkins, WR Joseph Ngata, and DT Moro Ojomo were back in action.
A significant highlight from Tuesday's practice was Guard Mekhi Becton taking first-team reps at right guard, demonstrating his versatility and readiness to contribute. On a positive note, Guard Landon Dickerson, who appeared to favor his knee on Sunday, returned to practice without missing any time. Meanwhile, running back Saquon Barkley had to sit out the last period of team drills to receive treatment on his lower back.
Tight end Dallas Goedert also saw a mixed session, participating in individual drills but sitting out the team portion. Wide receiver Ainias Smith showcased his prowess by besting both safety Avonte Maddox and cornerback Eli Ricks on consecutive reps, highlighting his potential impact for the team.
In defense, cornerback Quinyon Mitchell made a significant play, forcing an incompletion against DeVonta Smith and disrupting a sweep to Barkley. Mitchell's vocal confidence was evident as he exclaimed, "That's a route right there." However, cornerback Cooper DeJean had a more challenging day, allowing an easy completion to Britain Covey and getting beaten by Covey on another occasion.
Defensive back Parry Nickerson nearly intercepted Jalen Hurts following a miscommunication with A.J. Brown, showing that even small errors could have significant consequences during these critical practice sessions. Meanwhile, Quarterback Tanner McKee displayed accuracy and connection, completing a pass to Jacob Harris in a 1-on-1 drill against Eli Ricks and connecting on a deep pass with E.J. Jenkins.
Defensive standout Julian Okwara disrupted the Steelers’ offense by forcing quarterback Kenny Pickett to flush right, leading to an incompletion during 11-on-11s. Okwara didn't stop there, generating another pressure later in practice which resulted in a throwaway, solidifying his position as a key defensive player to watch.
The offensive line, led by Becton and Fred Johnson, had their standout moments. Johnson, in particular, shone in both run blocking and pass protection, effectively manhandling cornerback Eli Ricks during a run. His performance did not go unnoticed as head coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged E.J. Jenkins with, "Good job, E.J.," signaling approval of the efforts and performances on the field.
As the Eagles prepare for the crucial final days of training camp, the mix of strategic adjustments, player recoveries, and on-field performances will shape the roster and set the tone for the upcoming season. Each practice session is now a critical component in the lead-up to the final preseason showcase and the imminent roster decisions awaiting next Tuesday.