As the Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up their final practice session before the start of the preseason, there was a palpable sense of readiness and anticipation among the squad. The weather played ball, clearing up just as the Eagles hit their double-digit practice mark, which allowed for an uninterrupted and productive 75-minute session on the field.
Key Absences
However, not all news from the session was wholly positive. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson missed his second consecutive practice due to a shoulder injury, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming games. Linebacker Oren Burks was also notably absent, missing his ninth straight session with a knee issue. Additionally, key players like wide receiver Parris Campbell, safety Mekhi Garner, and linebacker Brandon Smith were out for their fourth straight practice, with none of the injured players expected to participate in the preseason opener.
Lineup Impressions
With several players sidelined, other squad members had the opportunity to step up. Zack Baun and Devin White led the linebacker unit with the first team, showing resilience and readiness. Meanwhile, James Bradberry and Reed Blankenship slotted into the safety positions seamlessly. Isaiah Rodgers and Darius Slay were solid as the outside cornerbacks, with Quinyon Mitchell taking on the role of the first-team slot cornerback.
Grant Calcaterra made noticeable plays during the practice, catching a touchdown from quarterback Jalen Hurts, followed by a 25-yard pass. Calcaterra also successfully connected on a slant pass from Kenny Pickett, highlighting his versatility and catching prowess. Darius Slay stood out defensively, breaking up a deep pass from Hurts intended for Joseph Ngata.
Battle in the Trenches
The offensive and defensive line battles were equally intense. Lane Johnson showcased his dominance by neutralizing Brandon Graham's rush on three consecutive plays during 11-on-11 situations. On the interior, Mekhi Becton proved his reliability, holding firm as the first-team right guard. The team did face a setback with Tyler Steen sidelined due to an ankle injury, posing questions about depth and potential adjustments.
Emerging Talents
Among the newer and younger players, Britain Covey made a solid impression by making a crucial catch on an out route against defenders Tristin McCollum and Andre' Sam. Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. received vocal commendation from teammate Zack Baun after a significant defensive stop: "Good eyes, Trot! Good eyes!" This praise reflects the growing confidence within the unit and the mentorship occurring on the field.
Moro Ojomo's recent performances have also generated buzz. Over the past four practices, Ojomo has consistently shown an ability to apply pressure from the interior. This consistency may position him as the fourth defensive tackle, backing up the trio of Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Milton Williams. Such depth will be critical as the season progresses, offering the Eagles multiple defensive options.
Standout Plays
Practice sessions are often where games are won and lost, and players like Austin Watkins made sure to leave a mark. Watkins executed a diving catch and achieved a significant gain against cornerback Josh Jobe, demonstrating his potential impact during the forthcoming season.
As the Eagles gear up for their preseason opener, this practice session provided a crucial final opportunity to evaluate the squad's depth and readiness. With key players performing at a high level and emerging talents showing promise, the team's prospects for the upcoming games seem optimistic, despite the absence of several injured players. The coaching staff will undoubtedly use this platform to make final adjustments and solidify their strategies for the challenges ahead.