The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up their final practice session before the highly anticipated preseason opener, with the weather clearing up just in time to allow for an uninterrupted 75-minute session. This session marked the team's double-digit practice milestone as they prepared meticulously for the upcoming games.
The practice saw noteworthy absences, including Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who was out for the second consecutive session due to a shoulder injury. Linebacker Oren Burks continued his absence, missing his ninth straight practice owing to a persistent knee issue. These recurring injuries mean that key players, including wide receiver Parris Campbell, safety Mekhi Garner, and linebacker Brandon Smith, who also missed their fourth consecutive practice, are not expected to participate in the preseason opener.
Lineup Adjustments and Player Roles
In light of these absences, the Eagles' first-team units saw some adjustments. Zack Baun and Devin White spearheaded the linebacker unit, bringing experience and stability. The safety positions were managed by James Bradberry and Reed Blankenship, while Isaiah Rodgers and Darius Slay took charge of the outside cornerback roles. Quinyon Mitchell was assigned the slot cornerback position for the first team, a critical role in the defensive lineup.
Standout Performers
Among the highlights of this practice was the performance of Grant Calcaterra, who caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Jalen Hurts and followed it up with a 25-yard reception. Calcaterra's prowess didn’t stop there; he also successfully caught a slant pass from Kenny Pickett, showcasing his reliability and versatility as a receiver.
On the defensive side, Darius Slay made a significant impact by breaking up a deep pass from Jalen Hurts intended for Joseph Ngata, a play that demonstrated his sharp defensive skills and ability to read the game effectively.
Veteran offensive tackle Lane Johnson also displayed his exceptional blocking skills by neutralizing Brandon Graham's rush on three consecutive plays during the 11-on-11 scenarios, proving his critical role in protecting the quarterback.
Key Contributors and Observations
Despite the absences, the Eagles saw several players stepping up to the challenge. Mekhi Becton remained solid in his role as the first-team right guard, while Tyler Steen's practice was hindered by an ankle injury. Wide receiver Britain Covey made a notable catch on an out route against Tristin McCollum and Andre' Sam, highlighting his receiving capabilities and readiness for game action.
Defense also had its share of commendations. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. earned praise from teammate Zack Baun after a crucial defensive stop, with Baun exclaiming, "Good eyes, Trot! Good eyes!" This moment signified the cohesion and communication within the defensive unit.
Interior defensive pressure has been a point of emphasis for the Eagles, with Moro Ojomo showing promise in this area over the past four practices. His sustained ability to generate pressure from the inside may position him as the fourth defensive tackle, complementing the likes of Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Milton Williams.
Preseason Evaluation and Depth Assessment
The preseason opener will serve as a critical juncture for evaluating the depth and readiness of the Eagles' squad. Austin Watkins shone in practice, making a diving catch and a significant gain against cornerback Josh Jobe. Watkins' performance, along with others, will be under scrutiny as the coaches assess who will make the final roster and in what capacity they'll contribute.
Overall, the final practice session underscored the Philadelphia Eagles' preparation and adaptability. Despite the injuries and absences, various team members stepped up, leaving a hopeful outlook as the team edges closer to the preseason opener. The upcoming game will provide the perfect backdrop to evaluate these efforts, offering fans and coaches alike a glimpse into the potential success of this year's squad.