8 biggest questions as the Eagles’ offseason program gets underway
Following the addition of Saquon Barkley to the roster and the retirements of Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox, the Eagles have returned to the NovaCare Complex for a nine-week off-season program. Under Nick Sirianni, Philadelphia will also hold a mandatory minicamp for the first time. There will be seven optional practices (OTAs) on May 20, May 22–23, May 28, May 30-31, and June 4-6 for three days of minicamp. The team had six total OTAs in 2022 and 2023. As the team begins its workouts and on-field training, we’re looking at the eight most important questions facing the team.
After dropping six of seven games in a row in 2023, the Eagles head coach will start Year 4 with three straight postseason appearances but a new staff. Brian Johnson and Sean Desai are replaced by Vic Fangio and Kellen Moore. Can Sirianni, as the coach of a team with legitimate Super Bowl hopes, avoid being a possible lame duck?
Kelce’s absence, will take the helm?
The Eagles will begin the regular season without center Jason Kelce in the starting lineup for the first time since 2011. Even with Lane Johnson starting at right tackle, Landon Dickerson and Jordan Mailata are still in the running for leadership roles despite the All-Pro and future Hall of Famer’s retirement this spring.
What offensive alternatives will Kellen Moore combine with?
With the addition of Saquon Barkley to the Eagles on a three-year contract, Moore takes over an offensive line that has the potential to be a formidable force. Parris Campbell gives the Eagles the skill players they need to develop into an offensive force that is unstoppable.
Is Jordan Davis ready for a breakthrough?
Similar to the football team’s offensive lineman Jason Kelce, Philadelphia’s defensive tackle Fletcher Cox will be absent when the regular season begins. While Jalen Carter is a fantastic player and Milton Williams is dependable, could Jordan Davis finally have a breakthrough season in Year 3?
Can Nakobe Dean make a difference?
In free agency, Philadelphia added Devin White, Zack Baun, and Oren Burks; nonetheless, the success of this defense depends on a healthy and effective Nakobe Dean. Despite showing promise in 2023, the former Georgia All-American ended the season on injured reserve due to two foot problems. Dean, this is your moment.
Is James Bradberry expected to start?
Bradberry is part of the Eagles’ plans, according to Howie Roseman, and there hasn’t been any talk of a possible trade or dismissal. Everything might change before, during, or after the draft, and we’ll be interested to see how Vic Fangio uses the seasoned cornerback.
Will a young, talented person step up?
Zech McPhearson, Eli Ricks, Kelee Ringo, and the suspended Isaiah Rodgers are just a few examples. Who will be the young cornerback to take Darius Slay’s place?
Is C.J. Gardner-Johnson able to regain his confidence?
It seems that C.J. Gardner-Johnson took the defensive swagger and confidence from the Eagles with him when he signed a one-year contract with Detroit during the off-season. With a three-year contract extension, Gardner-Johnson is back in Philadelphia, and his loud talking and skill as a defensive back raises concerns about the defense.