Eagles Preview
2023 record: 11-6, lost in the wildcard round, 32-9 to Tampa Bay.
Coach: Nick Sirianni (fourth season, 34-17 regular season, 2-3 playoffs).
Schedule
| Sept. 6 vs Green Bay in Brazil |
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Top 3 units
1. Wide receivers: With the recent addition of Jahan Dotson, it’s difficult to find a better trio of receivers for the Eagles: A.J. Brown (106 receptions, 1456 yards, 7 TDS), DeVonta Smith (81 receptions, 1,066 yards, 7 TDS) and Dotson (49 receptions, 518 yards, 4 TDs for the Washington Commanders).
2. Offensive line: Pro Football Focus ranks the Eagles offensive line No. 2 in the NFL behind only the Detroit Lions. Losing Jason Kelce to retirement was a big loss, but his replacement Cam Jurgens started at guard and should make a smooth transition back to his college position. Tackle Lane Johnson and guard Landon Dickerson are among the best in their position in the NFL. Tackle Jordan Mailata may not be at a Pro Bowl level, but he is a solid performer. The right guard figures to be former NY Jet Makhi Becton.
3. Cornerback: This was perceived as a real weakness at the end of last season but there is now tremendous depth. Despite being 33, Darius Slay remains a highly capable CB. Isaiah Rodgers, who was suspended last year for violating the NFL’s gambling policy, should be a major contributor. First round pick Quinyon Mitchell can play the slot or the outside. Kelee Ringo and rookie Cooper DeJean, who missed a great deal of training camp due to a hamstring injury, but played extensively in the final preseason game, could eventually be pushing for playing time.
Biggest question: Will the Eagles get the 2022 Jalen Hurts, the 2023 Hurts, or something in between?
2022: 66.5% completion; 3,701 yards; 22 TDs; 6 INT; 101.5 passer rating; 760 yards rushing (4.6 avg.); 13 TDs
2023: 65.4% completion; 3,853 yards; 23 TDs; 15 interceptions; 89.1 passer rating; 605 yards rushing (3.9 avg.); 15 TDs.
These stats say Hurts is a Top 10 NFL QB, but that is assuming he rebounds from a subpar season in 2023. We contend he was hurt more than he suggested with his knee, and it hurt his mobility and speed.
Can the Eagles generate a pass rush?
Last year they had 43 sacks, but Haason Reddick, who had 11 sacks is gone. The Eagles signed Bryce Huff from the New York Jets, who had 10 sacks a year ago. Can he replace Reddick’s production? In addition, Josh Sweat (6.5 sacks) will need to have a bounce-back year. DT Jalen Carter, who started strong and faded down the stretch, has Pro Bowl potential.
How will they use Saquon Barkley and how will the former Giant perform in this offense?
If Barkley is healthy, he should be a major factor, but how many touches will he get? With all the top receivers plus tight end Dallas Goedert, there are only so many touches to go around. Look for Barkley to be a key player in the passing game as well. Last year he rushed for 962 yards (3.9 avg) and six TDs playing behind a poor NY Giants offensive line which PFF currently ranks 29th. Barkley also had 41 receptions for 280 yards and four TDs. He may not get as many touches as he did last year, but should be much more effective playing behind the Eagles offensive line.
Eagles predicted record: 12-5.
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Photo: No. 6 DeVonta Smith / Courtesy of Philadelphia Eagles
Author: Marc Narducci
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