The Philadelphia Eagles have officially reported to training camp, marking the start of a promising 2024 season. With fresh starts and Super Bowl aspirations in full swing, the team has made significant changes both on and off the field. Head coach Nick Sirianni, offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio are set to lead the charge, bringing new strategies and energy to the Eagles’ organization.
The offseason saw several high-profile moves, including the retirements of long-time stalwarts Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox. Their departures signaled the end of an era, but also paved the way for new talent to step up. On the defensive side, the secondary has been bolstered by the additions of rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, along with the returning veterans Darius Slay and James Bradberry. Bradberry, now in his 30s, might even experience a positional shift to safety, a role he is being seriously considered for along with Reed Blankenship and DeJean.
Offensively, the Eagles have made strategic moves to strengthen their squad. Star quarterback Jalen Hurts will return to lead the team, supported by new signings Saquon Barkley, Bryce Huff, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Notably, Barkley joins the team with a lucrative $12.5 million-per-year deal, adding depth and power to an offense that already boasts talents like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. The running game, however, has room for improvement. Last season, the Eagles ranked 19th in yards per carry with an average of 4.1, and 32nd in yards after contact per rush at 2.32 since Week 4.
In an effort to regain their footing, the Eagles made a significant trade to acquire D'Andre Swift, who was a 1,000-yard rusher last season. The offensive line battle also heats up with Mekhi Becton and Tyler Steen competing for the starting right guard spot, though Steen currently holds the first-team reps. The wide receiver core sees Parris Campbell positioned for the WR3 role, hoping to fill the gap left by Quez Watkins after the 2023 season.
John Ross is making waves as he attempts a comeback after a three-year absence from regular-season play. Additionally, the Eagles have shown faith in their scouting and drafting abilities, bringing in Day 3 draft picks Ainias Smith and Johnny Wilson, who are expected to contribute as the season progresses.
The linebacker position has undergone a significant overhaul. The Eagles parted ways with Zach Cunningham and Nicholas Morrow, opting instead for the likes of Devin White and Oren Burks. Nakobe Dean, a promising talent, has faced challenges staying healthy but remains a key part of the team’s plans.
On the defensive end, veteran Brandon Graham, now 35 years old, returns for what is expected to be his final season. Nolan Smith, a younger talent, made an impact with four tackles and a quarterback hit in just 16 snaps during last season's wild card playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and he looks to build on that performance this year.
This revamped roster underscores the Eagles’ commitment to winning now while also building for the future. Their investments in securing A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith highlight their strategy of blending established stars with emerging talents. With one of the most talented rosters in the NFL, the Eagles are gearing up for a season where anything less than a deep playoff run would be a disappointment. As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on how well these new pieces fit together and how the team coalesces under the guidance of Nick Sirianni and his coaching staff.