The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up their final practice ahead of the preseason opener under a clear sky, taking advantage of the weather to complete an uninterrupted 75-minute session. This marked the first double-digit practice for the team, offering a critical window of preparation before they hit the field for competitive play.
However, the absence of key players due to injuries continued to be a notable concern. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson missed his second consecutive practice with a shoulder injury, while linebacker Oren Burks was sidelined for the ninth straight session owing to a knee issue. Wide receiver Parris Campbell, safety Mekhi Garner, and linebacker Brandon Smith were also absent for their fourth straight practice. None of these injured players are expected to participate in the upcoming preseason game.
Despite these setbacks, the Eagles' first-team units displayed impressive coordination. Zack Baun and Devin White took the reins of the linebacker corps, while James Bradberry and Reed Blankenship secured the safety positions. The cornerback spots were firmly held by Isaiah Rodgers and Darius Slay, with Quinyon Mitchell stepping up as the first-team slot cornerback.
The practice session was not without its highlights. Among the offensive standouts, Grant Calcaterra caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Jalen Hurts and another impressive 25-yard pass. Calcaterra also connected on a slant pass from Kenny Pickett, showcasing his versatility and reliability as a receiver. On the defensive side, Darius Slay made a crucial play by breaking up a deep pass from Hurts intended for Joseph Ngata.
The trench battles were equally compelling. Veteran tackle Lane Johnson successfully neutralized defensive end Brandon Graham’s rush on three consecutive plays during the 11-on-11 situations, underscoring his consistency and skill. Meanwhile, Mekhi Becton maintained his position as the first-team right guard, contributing to the offensive line's solidity.
Rookie linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. earned praise for his defensive awareness, with Zack Baun commending him by shouting, "Good eyes, Trot! Good eyes!" after a crucial defensive stop. This moment highlighted the blend of veteran guidance and emerging talent within the team.
Among the players striving to make an impact, Moro Ojomo stood out with his consistent ability to generate interior pressure over the past four practices. Ojomo’s performance could potentially earn him a spot as the fourth defensive tackle behind Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Milton Williams.
Wide receiver Britain Covey made a notable catch on an out route against defenders Tristin McCollum and Andre' Sam, further strengthening his case for a roster spot. Austin Watkins also turned heads with a diving catch and a significant gain against cornerback Josh Jobe, adding another layer of competition within the receiving unit.
With the preseason opener on the horizon, the Eagles will be keenly observing the depth and readiness of their squad. The final practice session provided a blend of optimism and areas for concern, offering a glimpse into the potential dynamics of the team once the preseason kicks off in earnest.