As the Philadelphia Eagles took the field at the NovaCare Complex on Sunday, the energy was palpable. The 89-minute practice session was filled with competitive drills and updates that provided insights into the team's preparations for the upcoming season, including a joint practice with the New England Patriots in Foxborough later this week.
One key matchup on display was between Quinyon Mitchell and Devonta Smith, who faced off in three one-on-one battles. Smith started strong, catching a pass in the first round, but Mitchell responded by forcing incompletions in the next two rounds. The back-and-forth highlighted the competitive spirit within the squad.
In another heated one-on-one drill, safety Andre Sam outplayed wide receiver Ainias Smith, showing the depth and talent in the Eagles' defensive backfield. Meanwhile, Johnny Wilson took center stage by receiving the majority of WR3 snaps. Wilson not only caught a Jalen Hurts pass in the back corner of the end zone over Quinyon Mitchell but is also expected to secure a roster spot, reflecting his growing role on the team.
Veteran wide receiver A.J. Brown showcased his skill and exuberance, catching a touchdown pass over two defenders in the red zone. His celebration, kicking or punting the ball onto a neighboring practice field, was punctuated by a spirited exclamation, “Hell no!”
On the defensive end, Jalyx Hunt had a standout practice. His performance included batting down a Jalen Hurts pass during the 11-on-11 drills and participating in blocking a punt during the special teams portion of practice. Vic Fangio commended Hunt, stating that it might have been his best practice of the camp.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. also shone on defense, blitzing Kenny Pickett to force an incompletion and maintaining solid pass coverage on Saquon Barkley. The linebacker group displayed its depth, with Trotter Jr. and Nakobe Dean receiving second-team reps, though Dean also saw action with the first team. Zack Baun and Devin White were the starting linebackers, demonstrating the fierce competition for starting spots.
The practice wasn’t without its absences and limitations. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson missed his third consecutive practice due to a shoulder injury. Linebacker Oren Burks missed his 10th straight practice, while wide receiver Parris Campbell was out for the fourth consecutive session. Tight ends Albert Okwuegbunam and Grant Calcaterra were sidelined due to injuries, and both safety Mekhi Garner and linebacker Brandon Smith had limited participation. Pass rusher Patrick Johnson was limited by a lower leg contusion.
On the offensive line, Mekhi Becton emerged as the front-runner for the starting right guard position. Despite vomiting during practice, Becton did not miss any plays, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Britain Covey and Johnny Wilson both featured prominently in the WR3 position. Covey is solidifying his role as a wideout and punt returner, while Wilson continues to make a strong case for his spot on the roster.
With Gardner-Johnson absent, Avonte Maddox started alongside Reed Blankenship in the safety position, and James Bradberry received first-team reps. Isaiah Rodgers started opposite Darius Slay at cornerback, with Kelee Ringo also getting first-team reps. Quinyon Mitchell continued to play in the slot position at cornerback, further demonstrating the depth and versatility of the Eagles' secondary.
The practice was a testament to the competitive spirit and depth within the Eagles' squad. As the team builds momentum and anticipation for the upcoming season, the mixture of established stars like A.J. Brown and emerging talents like Johnny Wilson offers a promising outlook for Eagles fans.