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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Jalen Hurts ended his preseason without taking an in-game snap. More importantly, he is healthy and logged full practices throughout the summer. PhillyVoice’s Jimmy Kempski capped his daily practice tracker by giving Hurts another thumbs up, his fifteenth in 16 practices. That thumbs up comes despite Hurts throwing his first and only interception of camp to veteran cornerback Darius Slay. Kempski notes, “Otherwise, I thought he had a very good day, much like he has all camp. He had two great throws into the end zone for touchdowns to DeVonta Smith and Kenneth Gainwell (more on those shortly), and as usual, balls rarely hit the ground. Even with the INT, I thought it was a 'thumbs up' day.” Hurts took Slay’s interception in stride, throwing a little dig his veteran teammate’s way: "I told him about time."
As we’ve said repeatedly, Tanner McKee has looked better than Kenny Pickett this summer. But in fairness to Pickett, he gets the edge based on the preseason finale. Pickett played the entire first half and completed 6-of-9 passes for 58 yards. McKee took over in the second half and was 13-of-21 for 115 yards and an interception. Despite the arrow pointing in McKee’s direction, most believe Pickett will break camp as the No. 2 quarterback, while the team will keep McKee on the active roster as well.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
There’s been no mystery about the running back pecking order for weeks. Saquon Barkley is the centerpiece, with Kenneth Gainwell and rookie Will Shipley expected to contribute. There’s little chance the team opts to keep a fourth running back, particularly after Tyrion Davis-Price lost a fumble in his ‘star’ turn in the finale against the Vikings' backup defenders. Barkley made a seamless transition to the Eagles after playing against them for years and has set a lofty goal for the next phase of his career. “I want to be the best of all-time,” Barkley said. “Not trying to sound cocky or anything like that, but the tape speaks for itself. I’m just trying to elevate on that. Trying to expand on my game. I feel like I’ve done a lot of great things in this league, even with battling through injuries, I felt like I made a name for myself, and I feel like in this offense and with the guys I have around me, I’m going to continue to be able to do that.”
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
As expected, neither A.J. Brown nor DeVonta Smith played in the preseason finale. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, both receivers alternated days as the best player on the field throughout the summer. If both remain healthy, Jalen Hurts will have one of the league’s best duos at his disposal. We’ve discussed all preseason that depth was a concern, as no clear No. 3 receiver was on the roster unless the coaches were comfortable entrusting rookie Johnny Wilson with the job. Fortunately, General Manager Howie Roseman solved the problem in a rare trade within the division, as the Eagles acquired Jahan Dotson from the Commanders. Dotson, the 16th overall pick in the 2022 draft, had seen his star fade quickly under the new regime of General Manager Adam Peters and Coach Dan Quinn. Initially projected as the No. 2 receiver in Washington, the last few weeks had called into question whether he would even be in the starting lineup, which explains why he became available. Dotson now gets a new lease on life, although his role certainly won’t have the volume he hoped for unless Brown or Smith gets hurt. No. 3 receivers in Kellen Moore’s offenses have averaged about a 13% target share, suggesting a 60-70 target season for Dotson. Dotson’s arrival could mean Parris Campbell’s departure, as he’s now fighting for the No. 6 spot, and it’s no guarantee the team will keep six receivers on the roster. Brown, Smith, Dotson, rookie Johnny Wilson, and return specialist Britain Covey are locks if healthy. That leaves Campbell fighting rookie Ainais Smith for a spot.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
This is a problematic position, and fans would love to see Roseman make a trade or a deft waiver pickup, much like he did in acquiring Jahan Dotson. Barring a roster move, this unit will be paper-thin behind starter Dallas Goedert. Grant Calcaterra is the only other roster lock, and his inability to stay healthy is well-chronicled. E.J. Jenkins would be the presumptive No. 3, but not every team reporter believes he’ll make the 53-man roster.
Preseason Updates: Defense
The defense will look very different this year due to roster turnover and new coordinator Vic Fangio’s scheme. For the unit to succeed, several young defenders must set career marks. Interior linemen Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis will need to play 10% to 20% more snaps, while edge rushers Bryce Huff and Nolan Smith will need to prove they can be more than rotational contributors on the outside. Three prominent beat writers agree about eight defensive backs being locks: Darius Slay, Isaiah Rodgers, Quinyon Mitchell, Kelee Ringo, Avonte Maddox, Cooper DeJean, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Reed Blankenship. However, the final spots are up for debate. The Athletic’s Brooks Kubena projects James Bradberry and Caden Sterns, while USA Today’s Brandon Lee Gowton believes Tristan McCollum will make it over Sterns. ESPN’s Tim McManus sees neither Bradberry nor Sterns making it, favoring McCollum and Sydney Brown instead.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Britain Covey (punts) and Isaiah Rodgers (kickoffs) are projected to make the final roster as returners.
Updates from Week 3
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Jalen Hurts and all the other projected starters didn’t play against the Patriots Thursday night, but he put on an impressive display in joint practices earlier in the week. After Saturday’s practice, PhillyVoice’s Nick Tricome noted that Hurts has yet to throw an interception in training camp, an astounding feat considering how many reps he’s taken over the last three weeks.
It seemed like a no-brainer decision when the Eagles traded for Kenny Pickett. Pickett had experience starting for a playoff-caliber team and was available for minimal cost, given the Steelers’ decision to bring in Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. While it’s way too early to declare the trade a mistake, this summer hasn’t done much to instill confidence in Pickett’s ability to handle the offense if Jalen Hurts misses time. For the second consecutive week, Pickett struggled in preseason game action as he was unable or unwilling to throw downfield and took pressure from holding onto the ball too long. Pickett completed 85% of his passes (11-of-13), but he averaged just 5.2 yards per attempt. He was sacked four times, as well. Tanner McKee completed 15-of-19 passes for 140 yards and looked far more equipped to execute Kellen Moore’s scheme. Despite outside observers suggesting McKee should be the No. 2, head coach Nick Sirianni made it clear in the post-game presser that he sees things differently: “You saw where they went in today. Kenny is No. 2, and Tanner is our No. 3, and I am really happy they’re both on the roster.”
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
There’s little mystery about the plans at running back, barring injury. Saquon Barkley is the lead back and will be counted on as a vital offensive cog. Kenneth Gainwell will start the season as the No. 2; he’s looked good this summer and is experienced. Rookie Will Shipley has answered all the questions and showcased his three-down capabilities against the Patriots (9 touches for 46 yards). The only intrigue is whether the team keeps a fourth running back, but that appears unlikely, given more pressing needs for depth at other positions.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
There are depth concerns, which have been exacerbated this week by a series of injuries to projected contributors. Johnny Wilson (concussion) and Parris Campbell (groin) missed the Patriots game with injuries, and John Ross – who had been coming on of late – left the game with a concussion. Long-time beat writer Jimmy Kempski views A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Wilson, and Britain Covey as roster locks, but Covey’s value comes mainly on special teams. He believes the final spot comes down to Campbell, Ross, Ainias Smith, or Joseph Ngata. None are essential, and it would be encouraging to see the team acquire a more proven veteran as other teams jettison players.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Dallas Goedert must stay healthy, or the team will run 3-WR and 4-WR sets with aplomb. Grant Calcaterra has looked capable through much of camp but has missed practices recently due to a shoulder injury. Given his history, it’s hard to trust he can handle the rigors of regular playing time. The No. 3 spot is entirely up for grabs, and dark horse E.J. Jenkins may edge into the spot if he can sustain his performance from the Patriots game (5 receptions for 47 yards). Veteran C.J. Uzomah is also an option for the No. 3 spot.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Jalen Carter had an encouraging rookie season, finishing second in the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. But last year’s accomplishments won’t be enough in 2024 if he and the team want to reach their goals. The Eagles have lost several key veteran pieces, and their depth isn’t what it has been in recent years, so Carter will have to play more snaps (562 last year) and find a way to be more dominant on every play. Regarding the cornerbacks, Darius Slay is locked in as the top starter, Isaiah Rodgers has the edge for the other outside spot, while rookie Quinyon Mitchell has the nickel slot role secured. With the depth and youth infusion at cornerback, veterans Avonte Maddox and James Bradberry are both trying to make the roster as safeties. Neither is guaranteed a spot, but of the two, Maddox appears more likely to handle the transition. Many projected starters didn’t suit up against the Patriots on Thursday night but did participate in joint practices earlier in the week. The Patriots beat writers were apoplectic about how poorly the first-team offense fared against the Eagles' first-team defense. According to NBC’s Phil Perry, the Patriots “had more sacks allowed (15) than passes completed (14) with Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye behind center and averaged one penalty for every ten offensive reps.”
Preseason Updates: Offensive Lines
Left tackle Jordan Mailata, left guard Landon Dickerson, and right tackle Lane Johnson are high-level starters. Thus, this line ranks 2nd overall. However, the retirement of likely HOF center Jason Kelce is a setback. Cam Jurgens (2022 Draft Round 2 – Nebraska) will try to replace Kelce. Jurgens started 11 games for the Birds last season at right guard. But that guard spot has been a problem, with Tyler Steen (ankle) and former New York Jet Mekhi Becton (leg) struggling with injury. Rookie Trevor Keegan (Round 5 – Michigan) could be another option. This is a well-coached group, but the lineup is slightly less elite than last year.
Updates from Week 2
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
The Eagles rested most of their starters—including Jalen Hurts—against the Ravens, so what we saw was hardly indicative of the regular-season scheme. Kenny Pickett hasn’t looked great running the offense in camp, which continued in his start against Baltimore. The former Steelers starter completed 14 of 22 passes (64%) but threw for only 89 yards (4.0 per attempt); it’s the same dink-and-dunk, take-no-chances style that derailed him in Pittsburgh. Fortunately for Pickett, Tanner McKee was even worse, completing just 6 of 16 passes for 39 yards (2.4 per attempt) against the tail end of the Ravens roster. Long-time beat writer Jimmy Kempski keeps a practice tracker, assigning Jalen Hurts a daily grade. As of Sunday, Kempski has given Hurts a thumbs up in 10 of 11 sessions.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Barring injuries, this position group leaves very little intrigue, even with most of the preseason left to unfold. Saquon Barkley, Kenneth Gainwell, and rookie Will Shipley will be the three backs active on game day. How the snaps are divvied between Gainwell and Shipley remains to be seen, but the assumption is Gainwell’s experience warrants the No. 2 role, at least to being the year. Like many rookies, Shipley must improve in pass protection before the coaches trust him with key regular-season snaps. Tyrion Davis-Price, Kendall Milton, and Lew Nichols are hoping for a practice squad opportunity, with Davis-Price currently holding the edge.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are arguably the best receiving duo in the NFL, and one or the other has been the best offensive player on the field nearly every day this summer. While healthy, they’ll be a nightmare for opposing secondary coaches. But if either gets hurt for an extended period, the passing game could take a significant hit. The Eagles have lacked an impactful No. 3 receiver for years, and it doesn’t look like that will change in 2024. Veteran Parris Campbell is smart and can be an effective option, but he’s had difficulty staying healthy and is already missing time this summer with a groin injury. Rookie Johnny Wilson, who stands 6-foot-6, is getting most of the first-team snaps in Campbell’s absence, and it would be encouraging if he wins the role outright. He’s the only receiver on the roster with an upside projection that would make using 3-WR sets logical. Rookie Ainias Smith hasn’t been a camp standout, and his chances of contributing this year took another hit after he underwent surgery for a broken shin.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
When the Eagles drafted Dallas Goedert, it was considered a luxury pick because the team already had perennial Pro Bowler Zach Ertz in the lineup. But that quickly pivoted to Goedert being the lead option, and the Eagles have struggled to find a compelling No. 2 in recent seasons. Grant Calcaterra is making a case for that role despite a serious medical history, including concussions that led to him temporarily retiring from college football. The team is probably not done tinkering with the position group, having added Kevin Foelsch off waivers already. Don’t be surprised if the final 53-man roster has one or two tight ends who aren’t currently wearing Eagles Green.
Preseason Updates: Defense
If the Eagles return to playoff contention this year, they will have to do it without the depth that was customary in prior seasons, particularly on the defensive line. Young disrupters Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis must evolve from compelling complementary pieces to full-time impact players. Milton Williams is a favorite of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who looks to build off his 6.5 sacks and 108 tackles as a part-timer in his first three seasons. Facing difficult cap decisions, the Eagles traded Haason Reddick to the New York Jets, and replacing his 27 sacks will not be easy. The team signed a big contract with Bryce Huff to help fill the gap, but Huff is having a quiet training camp. If Huff doesn’t deliver on his contract, the Eagles will have difficulty generating an edge pass rush. Although the defensive line depth took a hit, the secondary has been re-stocked. The Eagles will likely keep seven cornerbacks on the final roster, leaving several intriguing players on the outside looking in. If Brooks Kubena’s projections are accurate, other teams will quickly make claims on Josh Jobe and Zech McPhearson rather than let them sit on the Eagles practice squad.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Britain Covey, the league’s leading punt returner last year, will continue in that role for 2024. The Eagles also signed Isaiah Rodgers, a veteran kickoff return specialist who missed last season due to a gambling suspension.
Updates from Week 1
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Jalen Hurts is learning an entirely new offense, which seems extreme, considering he played at an MVP level for several years in the prior scheme. Fortunately, Kellen Moore has worked closely with Hurts to ensure the new system is tailored to Hurts’ strengths. Moore explained, “Yeah, Jalen is a huge part of this process. I think his experience over the course of the last few years, all the things he’s been able to accomplish, we want to build on those things. When there’s a comfort level with a certain concept or scheme, we want to make sure we emphasize that, continue to build off it.” Brandon Lee Gowton effectively sums up Hurts’ strong start to camp, saying: “Hurts has looked much better than he did during spring practices. Judging him against his stated standard as a “triple threat,” he’s had success in all three regards. 1) As a passer, Hurts has been very accurate; there haven’t been many off-target throws. 2) As a runner, Hurts looks faster than he did the last time we saw him play. 3) In the mental aspect, Hurts has largely been decisive, and he’s avoided putting the ball in harm’s way.”
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
NBC’s Reuben Frank believes Kenneth Gainwell isn’t merely Barkley’s backup but is set for a significant role. “The more I see of training camp, the more I’m convinced Kenneth Gainwell is going to not just have a role on offense but have a significant role,” Frank said. “And that’s not a knock on Saquon Barkley. If anything, I get the sense Kellen Moore believes that giving Gainwell, say, seven or eight touches per game will help Barkley stay healthy and explosive the entire season and help keep defenses off-balance.” Moore explained the importance of getting the running backs more involved in the passing game. “It does have to be an outlet at times for the quarterback, but I think it’s critical that we utilize those guys in the pass game to create horizontal space and every once in a while, get them vertical,” Moore explained. “We have been fortunate to be around some really good ones in the past. Saquon [Barkley] is going to be phenomenal. Kenny [Gainwell] has done it here before. Will [Shipley] has shown tons of evidence that he’ll be able to utilize that skill. So we have three backs that can play a lot of different places on the field, and that will be a huge advantage for us.”
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
It’s early in the preseason, but the Eagles veterans, including A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, are laser-focused on putting last year’s collapse behind them and returning to championship form. Both players have been at or near the top of camp practice reports seemingly every day. Their only real task these next few weeks is staying healthy. Brown makes $32 million per year and was named one of the 25 best players in the NFL, but Smith isn’t letting anyone think of him as the sidekick. Jimmy Kempski of The Philly Voice notes, “Smith has almost sort of oddly never really crushed it in training camp, until now. This summer he is getting open at will and making more than his share of impressive catches, and has often looked like the best player on the field.”
The No. 3 role is wide open. Parris Campbell, John Ross, Britain Covey, and Johnny Wilson are all vying for roles, but they all have much left to prove. Zach Berman of PHLY believes all four receivers could have roles depending on the sub-package. “As I wrote earlier in week, might not be one guy. Eagles could mix it up based on what they want on that play — Wilson brings size, Campbell excels at YAC, Covey's route running is a plus, Ross brings elite speed.”
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Dallas Goedert is a veteran fixture on offense but has never quite reached the elite status some pegged for him in his early career. Notably, he caught three touchdowns in the Eagles open practice last week, an encouraging sign that new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore plans on utilizing Goedert in the same way he made great use of Dalton Schultz and Jake Ferguson while coaching the Cowboys. Grant Calcaterra has nine receptions in two seasons, but early camp reports indicate he’s solidly positioned as the No. 2, working behind Dallas Goedert.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Camp observers have continuously praised defensive tackle Jalen Carter's dominance throughout the first week and a half of training camp. While he hit the rookie wall last year, the added experience and understanding of the rigors of an NFL season have set him up well for 2024 and beyond. With Fletcher Cox's retirement, Carter will need to be on the field more and show greater consistency, but he and the coaches are confident he’s ready for the challenge.
The Eagles have invested significant resources in rebuilding the cornerback position over the last few seasons, including drafting Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. However, veteran Darius Slay is looking to defy the odds by remaining an effective starter on the outside at 33 years old. Although Mitchell primarily played outside during his college career, he is quickly locking down the starting nickel role.
