The Philadelphia Eagles could be an ideal landing spot for a former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive playmaker.

As suggested by Glenn Erby of Eagles Wire, Philadelphia should consider adding former Buccaneers tight end Cameron Brate. Erby believes the 31-year-old tight end would be a good fit considering his experience and that he can play in two tight end sets with starting tight end Dallas Goedert.

“Brate has valuable starting experience in the NFL (33 starts in 126 career games),” writes Erby. “He had just 20 catches for 174 yards last season at the age of 31, but provides value in two-tight end sets and good tight end depth.”

Why Eagles Could Consider Cameron Brate

Prior to being released by the Buccaneers this offseason, Brate had spent his entire nine-season career with Tampa Bay. Through 126 career games and 33 starts, Brate posted 273 receptions for 2,857 yards and 33 touchdowns. While Brate is coming off of his worst season outside of his rookie campaign — he posted just 20 receptions for 174 receiving yards and no touchdowns — he has shown playmaking ability in the past, notching 57 receptions for 660 yards and eight touchdowns during the 2016 season.

That performance helped Brate land a six-year, $40.8 million deal with the Buccaneers prior to the start of the 2018 season.

However, injuries — including a concussion and a neck injury — severely limited him last season.

Why Eagles Signing Cameron Brate is Unlikely

The Eagles currently feature seven tight ends on their roster. Five of those tight ends have notable experience, with all of them — with the exception of free agent signing Dan Arnold — having previously played for Philadelphia. Outside of Goedert and Arnold are veterans Tyree Jackson, Jack Stoll and Dallas Calcaterra.

However, most of those tight ends did not impress in pass and run blocking. According to Pro Football Focus, Goedert posted a 57.0 pass-blocking grade and 56.4 run-blocking grade. With the exception of Calcaterra — he posted a 73.3 pass-blocking grade and 61.7 run-blocking grade last season — all of the Eagles’ veteran tight ends posted worse grades.

By comparison, Brate excels in the blocking department. According to PFF, Brate posted a 79.1 pass-blocking grade last season. Among all tight ends with at 30 targets, Brate ranked fourth among all players at the position in pass blocking.

There’s been little chatter regarding any interest in Brate on the free agency market. In fact, it wouldn’t be surprising if Brate isn’t signed.

The Eagles could certainly take a flier on Brate if they choose to, signing him to a veteran’s minimum deal. However, the fact that Philadelphia already features so many tight ends on the roster — with four of them having played for the Eagles in the past — makes signing Brate an unlikely scenario. Especially when one has to assume that Philadelphia views Arnold — he had just nine catches last season and has just 95 career catches in five seasons– the way they would view Brate.

If one of Philadephia’s veteran tight ends suffer an injury during training camp or the preseason, signing Brate could become a possibility.

The Philadelphia Eagles could be the perfect landing spot for a bold trade proposal.

As suggested by Philly Voice’s Shamus Clancy, the Eagles could seek a Super Bowl run “rental” by acquiring Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen. In this trade scenario, the Eagles would acquire Queen in exchange for a 2024 fifth-round draft pick.

The Ravens recently declined Queen’s fifth-year option on his rookie contract for the 2024 season, leading to speculation that Baltimore could seek to trade the linebacker.

Why the Eagles Could Use Patrick Queen

Clancy argues that Nakobe Dean’s lack of experience — he played just 34 defensive snaps last season — should motivate the Eagles into potentially acquiring Queen, who led the Ravens with 122 tackles last year.

“It may be too early to just assume that Nakobe Dean can come in and be the Eagles’ unquestioned No. 1 linebacker after playing just 34 defensive snaps during his rookie year,” writes Clancy. “The team wants him to succeed and take this role, but I’m not quite sure he’s ready. He has a sky-high football IQ, but I need to see how he adjusts to the physicality of the NFL. Bringing in Queen to be the “green dot” linebacker while having Dean be the No. 2 LB could be a nice pathway to having Dean be the top dog in 2024.”

Dean is the projected starting middle linebacker, with former sixth-round pick Shaun Bradley — who has 45 career tackles to his name — the only listed backup. In fact, the Eagles have eight outside linebackers on the roster, but only two middle linebackers.

As far as Queen is concerned, he’s been one of the top young linebackers in the NFL since Baltimore used a first-round pick on him back in 2020. He finished third in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting after leading the Ravens with 106 tackles during the 2020 season. He followed that up by leading the Ravens in tackles during the 2021 season with 98 tackles. In other words, he’s led Baltimore in tackles for three consecutive seasons.

According to Pro Football Focus, Queen posted a solid 70.0 defensive grade and 68.2 grade in coverage last season. However, despite his impressive tackle totals, the advanced analytics show Queen actually struggled on the field over his first two seasons. Queen’s 29.7 defensive grade and 30.0 grade in coverage during his rookie season were extremely low, with his grades ranking last among linebackers with at least 500 snaps.

Eagles Could Use Patrick Queen as 1-Year Rental

With that being said, Queen is coming off of an impressive 2022 season. However, the Ravens may not be inclined to signing the young linebacker to a big-money contract with money currently tied up to fellow linebacker Roquan Smith. Smith is currently in the midst of a five-year, $100 million contract that makes him the highest-paid linebacker in NFL history.

“Baltimore has declined the Queen’s fifth-year option for 2024,” writes Clancy. “After giving the bag to Roquan Smith, the Ravens likely didn’t want to pour more big money into the linebacker position. For a team thin as always at LB, a rental for Queen for a Super Bowl run could be more enticing to Roseman rather than drafting another backer on Day 2 or handing out a big-money free agent deal. ”

If the Eagles are seeking an upgrade at the middle linebacker position, Queen is likely their best option for the 2023 season.

One thing you don’t hear often from a professional athlete is an honest answer about how much effort he or she puts into their craft. That can apply to on-the-field or off-the-field pursuits. It doesn’t matter.

Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce has always been the exception to the rule. He prefers to tell it like it is, like a cooling breath of fresh air, whether it’s up to the highest standard in the room or well below everyone’s expectations. The 35-year-old was recently spotted at the 3rd Annual Sneaker Ball, hosted by Rodney McLeod and his wife, Erika, where he graced the red carpet at Vie by Cescaphe in a pair of white-and-black Air Force 1 sneakers.

Not normally the fashion plate, Kelce made an admission (via The Inquirer’s Earl Hopkins) on his one-of-a-kind style: “I think I could be stylish if I put the effort in. I don’t put the effort in. Even now, I have sneakers tonight for the Sneaker Ball, but I would definitely prefer sandals.”

Other celebrity athletes in attendance at the event included retired stars Rasheed Wallace (NBA), Malcolm Jenkins (NFL), and Jason Thompson (NBA). The event served as a fundraiser for McLeod’s youth development foundation Change Our Future. He and his wife have continued to give back to the Philadelphia community even after he left the Eagles’ organization in 2021. The one-time Super Bowl champion inked a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns this past offseason.

Red Flag: Aging Core Players in Philly

CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin recently compiled a list of potential “red flags” for all the so-called Super Bowl contenders heading into the 2023 campaign. The Eagles were one of the teams mentioned as their reliance on “aging core players” was called into question.

Benjamin wrote the following:

On paper, Philly might remain the most talented team in the NFL, fresh off an NFC title. And Jalen Hurts can make up for a lot. But they’re dependent on plenty of older starters, from Jason Kelce (35) and Lane Johnson (33) to Brandon Graham (35) and Darius Slay (32). If several of them slip in performance or durability, both sides of the ball could feel it to a large degree.

‘Beer Bowl’ Set for Sea Isle City on June 28

Jason Kelce announced plans for a third-annual guest bartending gig at the New Jersey Shore with proceeds going to benefit the Eagles Autism Foundation. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 28 at The Ocean Drive in Sea Isle City and it’s expected to be another packed house.

Travis Kelce — his Super Bowl-winning brother who plays for the Kansas City Chiefs — will be slinging drinks, too. Their mother, Donna, will be selling Jell-O shots, and several Eagles players are expected to make cameos at the event, including Jordan Mailata and offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. The Kelce brothers revealed the date as well as details for a first-ever fan competition on their popular “New Heights” podcast:

Last year’s event raised more than $100,000 for the Eagles Autism Foundation, according to executive director Ryan Hammond. SportsRadio 94 WIP will be broadcasting live from Paddy’s Green, an adjacent bar on The Ocean Drive property.

Jalen Hurts can no longer be lumped into the bargain bin after inking a $255 million contract. He’s a rising star at the quarterback position with the coaching staff predicting another “jump” in 2023. He’s the straw that stirs the drink of the Philadelphia Eagles for the foreseeable future.

But the Eagles do have a number of key starters playing on cheap deals, well, let’s call them team-friendly contracts. DeVonta Smith headlines that list as he plays out his 4-year, $20 million rookie deal. Ditto for Landon Dickerson as whispers of an extension slowly start chirping down the lane.

CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin called out two important Eagles veterans in a list of the “Best Bargains at Premium Positions,” highlighted by Pro Bowl linebacker Haason Reddick who recorded a career-high 16 sacks in 2022. Reddick might be the most underrated stand-up edge rusher in the NFL, especially at $15 million per year:

Benjamin wrote: “The Eagles gambled that Reddick would build on his double-digit sack marks with the Cardinals and Panthers, and he did a lot more than that, terrorizing QBs as a clutch Defensive Player of the Year candidate during a title bid. With 39.5 sacks and 60 QB hits the last three years, he might still be one of the most underrated stand-up edge rushers in the NFL.”

The other player singled out was left tackle Jordan Mailata who signed a 4-year, $64 million contract in 2021. The Eagles restructured Mailata’s deal this offseason to create more cap room. They added dummy years to it and created $29.8 million in dead money.

Monitoring Dallas Goedert’s Contract Situation

Dallas Goedert inked a 4-year, $57 million contract in 2021 in what was widely regarded as an affordable price for the rising star tight end. Freak injuries have slowed down his production, yet Goedert has still inserted his name into the elites at the position. He’s a double-threat playmaker thanks to his ability to hold blocks at the line of scrimmage and down the field. Goedert is probably going to be looking for another extension soon, especially if he finally gets that elusive Pro Bowl nod.

The crew at Inside the Birds (Geoff Mosher, Adam Caplan) recently broke down the situation and crunched the numbers. Look for the Eagles to restructure the deal before the guaranteed money runs out:

Adam Caplan: “His cap number this year is only $6.46 million. Next year, due to the option bonus proration and salary that has not been restructured, his cap number goes from $6.4 million to $19.52 million, but there is no fully guaranteed money next year. This year, everything is fully guaranteed.”

Geoff Mosher: “If he has no guaranteed money left after this year, it means that if they have a nice year this year, they will probably look to restructure going into next year or extend.”

Eagles Have $13.8 Million in Salary-Cap Space

The Eagles have $13.85 million in salary-cap space which ranks 15th in the NFL, per OverTheCap. They have a whopping $54.72 million in dead money. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Los Angeles Rams, and Green Bay Packers are the only teams higher than the Eagles in the dead-money department.

The elephant in the room has finally been addressed. The field conditions at State Farm Stadium in Arizona for Super Bowl LVII were unacceptable. Players were visibly rattled and uncomfortable, slipping and sliding all night as if they were on ice skates. The unpredictability of the slick turf played a major factor in the Philadelphia Eagles losing to the Kansas City Chiefs.

The three-point loss has been debated and dissected over the past four months. Was Jonathan Gannon distracted? Did James Bradberry really commit pass interference? Should Miles Sanders have been unleashed? All are valid questions to ask. However, the most glaring issue seemed to be the Tahoma 31 turf which cost $800,000 to make and two years to grow. Eagles players openly complained about how they couldn’t get traction on the surface, specifically when trying to rush the quarterback.

Remember, the Eagles recorded a franchise-best 78 sacks on the year. The Chiefs’ offensive line held them to zero in the Super Bowl. According to Brandon Graham, it cost Josh Sweat at least one strip-sack. Maybe two.

“I’m telling you that O-line, boy, they got blessed. I’ll say that,” Graham told JAKIB Sports, referring to the Chiefs offensive line. “When we looked at the film, there was a couple of times where if Sweaty don’t slip boy, strip-sack. Oh my God, especially that first drive, that first drive where he threw it across the middle to [Travis] Kelce, he was right there, man, he slipped. We could not believe it.

“When we looked at the film, when I finally looked at it like, man, oh man. We gonna get that on the get-back. It’s coming back. That’s coming back but, like I said, credit to Kansas City. It’s all love. Them boys, they played, too.”

Get Ready for the Rematch in Kansas City

Brandon Graham, the consummate professional, took the high road by throwing kudos on Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid. The latter was the coach who first believed in him and drafted him in 2010. Make no mistake, there is no bad blood.

It’s just unfortunate the Super Bowl had to be played under poor conditions. The Eagles and Chiefs will see each other again on November 20 in Kansas City, reportedly on the same Tahoma 31 turf. The grass is also headed to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas.

“They played on that surface, too,” Graham said. “And I heard they got the same surface that they got right there on that field at their place. And Vegas do, too. Hey, so if we gonna win, we gotta go through the battle, and so if that’s what they putting out, that’s what we gotta do. We gotta rise up to adversity.”

Eagles-Jets Super Bowl Matchup Looming?

This is the time of year where everyone tries to make their best educated guess at which teams might get to the Super Bowl. ESPN has been pounding the pavement for the Eagles to get there in recent weeks, giving them a 25.5% chance of reaching Las Vegas and 13% of winning the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, Brandon Marshall (via IAmAthlete podcast) made his prediction: New York Jets over Philadelphia Eagles.

Philadelphia Eagles starter Jalen Hurts is the coolest cat in any room he enters. He walks with a self-assured gait. He speaks with humbled confidence. He runs the huddle with enviable poise, flashing no signs of any insecurity or fear. Hurts, in words and deeds, is the total package.

So, it was shocking to hear a local reporter take aim at Hurts as he alleged that the dual-threat quarterback was the “most insecure athlete in Philadelphia.” The Inquirer’s Marcus Hayes has long been known for dropping scorching hot takes – many of them defy logic, living in the world of head-scratching rumors – but this one stung harder. Eagles fans threw up their arms in disbelief on Twitter, especially once they realized he was talking about Hurts, not Carson Wentz, in a wildly confusing interview.

“My observation with Jalen Hurts is he’s probably the most insecure athlete in Philadelphia, who uses the insecurity to his advantage,” Hayes told JAKIB Sports. “I think he knows what his physical limitations are and always has been, and that’s one reason he works so hard to optimize every bit of ability he has.

“And that’s one reason he works so hard to be in the best physical shape he can be in, and he works so hard to understand the league, whatever system he’s running offensively, what his own teammates can do.”

Then, in a surprising twist of positivity, Hayes compared Hurts to Michael Jordan: “You hear this all the time: I’ve never seen a guy who works as hard as player X. Jalen Hurts works as hard as Michael Jordan. He really does.”

‘Cool, Calm, and Collected No Matter What’

The Eagles had scouted Jalen Hurts hard dating back to his freshman season at Alabama. According to The Athletic’s Dan Pompei, the team sent several scouts to watch him play in 2016 and gather information on an electrifying young quarterback who had been generating buzz. One thing was clear to everyone: this kid was overflowing with security.

“He was always cool, calm and collected no matter what, even in the national championship game as a true freshman,” Eagles scout Ian Cunningham told Pompei. “He always had this poise and even-keeled demeanor.”

Later, Hurts would get benched in the 2018 National Championship Game before transferring to Oklahoma. But, watching the way he navigated that situation, only endeared him more to the Eagles’ front office. They made the controversial decision to take him in the second round of the 2020 draft despite Carson Wentz’s presence on the depth chart.

“The more we were exposed to him, the more we liked,” Eagles GM Howie Roseman told The Athletic. “We saw he had physical tools, arm talent and unique athleticism. He’s a winner, and he’s a leader.”

Highest Scoring Player in Fantasy Football

Jalen Hurts racked up 35 total touchdowns (22 passing, 13 rushing) in what was shaping up to be an MVP season in 2022. Injury cost him the hardware, but expectations are through the roof this year.

Hurts is being projected to be one of the best players in fantasy football, according to Sharp Football Analysis: “While there will be some regression in the first-half performance for Hurts and this offense, we are going to get more 60-minute games as well. Pair that with how aggressive the Eagles told us they want to be as an offense, and Hurts has a runway to be the highest-scoring player in fantasy this season.”

The Philadelphia Eagles should consider trading one of their more notable offensive playmakers, according to one writer.

Shamus Clancy of Philly Voice put together a few trades that the Eagles should consider. One of those trades would see Philadelphia unload Quez Watkins and a 2025 seventh-round draft pick to the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round draft pick.

Clancy also makes sure to mention that no general manager in the NFL is more “aggressive” than Eagles general manager Howie Roseman.

Why Eagles Could Trade Quez Watkins

Clancy argues that the offseason signing of Olamide Zaccheaus makes Watkins expendable, considering Zaccheaus could fit the mold of a slot receiver better than Watkins.

“The Eagles brought in Olamide Zaccheaus this offseason and he offers a different skillset as a slot receiver compared to Watkins,” writes Clancy. “Zaccheaus is shifty and a threat in the short game while Watkins is a vertical slot guy. I don’t necessarily believe the Eagles need the latter in their offense because of the versatility of DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown where they can do everything, including being deep threats. I’m intrigued about what Zaccheaus could potentially bring to the passing attack.”

Clancy also details why the Patriots could be interested in Zaccheaus, explaining that if they fail in their pursuit of free agent receiver DeAndre Hopkins, they could land a backup plan in Watkins.

“If the Eagles like what they see from Zaccheaus and they want to get off Watkins’ $2.8 million salary, a familiar trade partner with New England could make sense,” writes Clancy. “If the Patriots strike out on DeAndre Hopkins and want to move towards a lesser wide receiver move, Watkins could be on their radar as quarterback Mac Jones tries to save his career.”

How Quez Watkins Compares to Olamide Zaccheaus

Although Watkins has played a prominent role for the Eagles over the past two seasons, Philadelphia signed Zaccheaus to a one-year deal. The former Atlanta Falcons receiver turned in a breakthrough campaign during the 2022 season, posting 40 receptions for 533 yards and three touchdowns. The 5-foot-8 receiver actually led all Falcons receivers in receptions and receiving yards.

By comparison, Watkins — as the clear No. 3 receiver behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith — regressed during the 2022 season in comparison to the 2021 season. Watkins contributed just 33 receptions for 354 yards (10.7 yards per reception) for three touchdowns last year. During the 2021 season — as the No. 2 receiver behind Smith — Watkins caught 43 receptions for 647 receiving yards (15.0 yards per reception).

Not only did Watkins regress from a statistical standpoint, he had notable hiccups during the season, including a costly drop during the Super Bowl loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, as Clancy notes.

“His numbers dropping after being relegated to the fourth option in the passing game after the acquisition of A.J. Brown was a predictable turn of events, but Watkins still didn’t make the most of the limited opportunities he had,” writes Clancy. “There was his costly fumble against Washington and, of course, his Super Bowl drop.”

Despite Watkins’ disappointing 2022 season, head coach Nick Sirianni and the organization has continued to express support for the young receiver during the offseason. Sirianni actually singled out Watkins for his performance during OTAs earlier this month.

“I have no problem singling one guy out that has just done a phenomenal job this offseason is Quez Watkins,” said Sirianni. “I love his attitude.”

There’s little doubt that Watkins certainly has the speed — he ran a 4.35 40-yard-dash time at the NFL Combine in comparison to Zaccheaus’ 4.49 yard time — to emerge as a real offensive weapon. The question is, can he do it consistently and is he a better option than Zaccheaus as the fourth weapon in this offense?

If the Eagles choose to move on from Watkins, it won’t happen until towards the end of the preseason and training camp. This will only happen if Watkins loses the battle for the No. 3 position with Zaccheaus.

If that ends up being the case, there’s little reason for Philadelphia to keep the former sixth-round pick around and they might as well recoup some value for the speedy playmaker.

The Philadelphia Eagles always like to stay ahead of the curve in terms of contract extensions. The franchise made sure Jalen Hurts didn’t hit his lame-duck year without a new one, and they were quick to lock up Dallas Goedert and Jordan Mailata before either player ever got close to sniffing free agency.

Miles Sanders? Well, the writing was on the wall when negotiations were never broached. Not surprisingly, he’s gone and the Eagles have a completely revamped running backs room. So it’s never too early to take a look at the roster and predict some upcoming contracts, especially in the starting unit. Left guard Landon Dickerson is arguably the most curious case study.

Dickerson, who made his first Pro Bowl in 2022, has two years remaining on his rookie deal. The 24-year-old is due $1.44 million in 2023, then another $1.84 million in 2024. The Eagles are probably going to want to start negotiating with Mailata’s best friend this season. What is the former second-round pick out of Alabama worth?

Inside the Birds’ Adam Caplan thinks the asking price is going to be high, maybe in the $20 million range, like what Quenton Nelson signed last year. The starting left guard for the Indianapolis Colts is the highest-paid player at the position.

“That would be the high-water mark if you’re Dickerson’s agent,” Caplan said. “But that one was done last September … I would probably look for that money or to beat it. I wouldn’t take less than that.”

Another common comparison is Elgton Jenkins of the Green Bay Packers. The two-time Pro Bowler inked a 4-year, $68 million (worth up to $74 million) in 2022 after serving as a versatile offensive line piece there since 2019. There are a ton of similarities between Jenkins and Dickerson: neither player was drafted at the position they are now playing, plus they were both second-round picks.

Here are the highest-paid left guards around the league:

Quenton Nelson, Colts: $80 million, $20 million per year (age: 27)
Elgton Jenkins, Packers: $68 million, $17 million per year (age: 27)
Joel Bitonio, Browns: $48 million, $16 million per year (age: 31)
Joe Thuney, Chiefs: $80 million, $16 million per year (age: 30)
Laken Tomlinson, Jets: $40 million, $13.3 million per year (age: 31)

Eagles Have High Hopes for Rookie Tyler Steen

The Eagles invested a third-round pick in Tyler Steen (65th overall) and see him competing for the starting right guard spot immediately. It will be a battle between Steen and second-year player Cam Jurgens. That will work itself out at training camp. For now, Steen is another valuable piece of clay for offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland to mold into a future starter.

His versatility was a big selling point on draft day, according to head coach Nick Sirianni. Steen started 13 games at left tackle for Alabama in 2022, then was listed at guard when the Eagles selected him so it wasn’t shocking to see him take reps at right guard during OTAs and minicamp.

“He’s been able to play, and we feel like he can play both positions, and we’ll see what happens,” Sirianni told reporters on April 28. “We feel like we have some good options, and the reason why we took him is because we feel good about him. Everybody in the building feels good about him.”

Training Camp Opens on July 25 in South Philly

The Eagles officially announced that players will be required to report to training camp on Tuesday, July 25. The team opens the 2023 preseason on Saturday, August 12 on the road against the Baltimore Ravens at 7 p.m. The regular season begins on Sunday, September 10 in New England. Yes, football is almost back.

Jonathan Gannon just won’t go away despite physically leaving the building and accepting a job elsewhere. The controversial coach remains embattled in a conspiracy theory due to the tampering case involving the Arizona Cardinals and Philadelphia Eagles.

The NFL worked out a settlement after a whistle-blower cried foul for a violation known as “impermissible contact.” The two franchises swapped picks minutes prior to the start of the 2023 draft. Everything had been smoothed over and everyone was moving on.

Well, everyone except Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio who keeps bringing it up. He believes there is a real conspiracy raging under the surface, including the potential for a possible legal case if a lawyer wants to push the issue.

Florio outlined a path to a lawsuit for people who placed Super Bowl bets on the Eagles. In it, the gossip writer says Gannon was “distracted” from his duties as defensive coordinator since he had a head-coaching interview scheduled one day after the game. Gannon didn’t get his guys ready to play because he was preparing for the interview, “which could have undermined the integrity of the Super Bowl.”

Florio floated out an interesting theory: “So what does that mean for bettors who wagered on the Eagles to win or to cover? The Eagles were on track after 30 minutes to do both. The legal argument would spring from the basic reality that Arizona blatantly violated league rules by planting the seed that created the distraction for Gannon — the distraction that kept him from properly preparing the Eagles defense.”

Slippery Field Conditions More to Blame

It’s hard to imagine how a lawyer could prove in court that a coach was “distracted” from doing his job. It’s not something tangible. It’s a gut feeling. It would be better to focus on, for argument’s sake, the slippery field conditions at State Farm Stadium in Arizona which unequivocally impacted the game.

Eagles players and Chiefs players alike crowed about how bad the Tahoma 31 turf was at Super Bowl LVII. No one used it as an excuse, but it clearly was a limiting factor for an Eagles defense that sacked the quarterback 70 times during the regular season. That seems to be the better legal case.

“I’m not going to lie it was the worst field that I’ve ever played on,” Haason Reddick told reporters, via CBS Sports. “It was very disappointing, it’s the NFL. You would think it would be better so we could get some better play, but it is what it is. I don’t know maybe the league will look at it and tell Arizona they got to step their stuff up. I don’t know, it’s not my decision to make, it’s not my call to make whatever it is and what it is.”

Eagles Own Best Super Bowl Odds

The Eagles are getting a lot of love this offseason to return to the Super Bowl. Better yet, they are slowly gaining ground as the favorites to win it. ESPN’s Football Power Index put them at 13% odds to raise the Lombardi Trophy in 2023, which is a full percentage point higher than the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs (12%).

At least on paper, the incoming crop of defensive rookies is loaded.

Despite the NFL tilting further in favor of the offense than ever before, there were 16 defensive players chosen in the first round to only 15 offensive prospects, headlined by EDGE Will Anderson and cornerback Devon Witherspoon both coming off the board in the top-five picks.

This spring featured one of the deeper cornerback classes in recent memory, and there should be at least a handful of immediate starters emerging from the first round alone.

So, which defensive rookies have the best chance of becoming immediate stars this fall? Here’s a prediction, with insight from NFL scouts and executives mixed in:

5. Joey Porter Jr., CB, Pittsburgh Steelers

Joey Porter Jr. follows his legendary father’s footsteps into a starting role in the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ defense, carrying an extra large chip on his shoulder from sliding out of the first round to No. 32 overall. That’s likely bad news for the rest of the NFL.

One of the longest cornerbacks in this year’s class, Porter’s 6-foot-2, 195-pound frame give him the ability to neutralize opposing receivers and caused opposing quarterbacks to shy away from targeting him last season.

“He’s going to be really good covering smaller receivers,” an AFC scout told Heavy. “He’s long, a really good athlete, and tough. The fact that he’s a Steeler seems to mean something extra to him, too.”

Porter Jr.’s massive wingspan helped him hold opposing receivers to just 143 total yards last season, according to Pro Football Focus, and opposing quarterbacks to a pedestrian 63.6 passer rating when targeting him. The Steelers have an instant starter and high-impact cornerback to continue building around, in Porter Jr.

4. Devon Witherspoon, CB, Seattle Seahawks

There might not be a cornerback with better ball skills in this year’s class than Devon Witherspoon, and he’ll walk right into a starting role in the Seattle Seahawks‘ secondary.

“Devon’s competitive as hell,” an NFC executive told Heavy. “And tough as they come. It’s like he was built to play for the Seahawks.”

According to Pro Football Focus, Witherspoon only allowed 22 receptions on 60 targets last season, surrendering just 3.3 yards per target with 14 pass breakups and three interceptions.

Seattle might not yet have its next incarnation of the “Legion of Boom,” but there’s a good chance that Witherspoon Island is about to pop up in the Emerald City thanks in large part to Witherspoon’s competitiveness and range on the outside.

3. Deonte Banks, CB, New York Giants

New York Giants defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale couldn’t contain his excitement that Banks would be the team’s selection as general manager Joe Schoen phoned in the No. 24 overall pick. It’s easy to see why.

While Banks had just one interception in 2022, opposing quarterbacks posted a mere 71.4 passer rating when targeting handsy 6-foot and 200-pound cornerback. Banks’ speed and versatility give him the potential to make an instant impact, and a worthy counter-punch to the NFC East’s bounty of elite receivers.

Banks’ presence on the perimeter affords Martindale a little more freedom to do what he loves most, and what his defense is built on; blitzing. New York has a long way to go in terms of building out a secondary, but Banks has the frame and athleticism to be a cornerstone.

2. Jalen Carter, DT, Philadelphia Eagles

General manager Howie Roseman once again managed to marry value with elite talent and need for the Philadelphia Eagles, stopping the slide of arguably the most dominant defensive player in this year’s class at No. 9 overall.

There likely won’t be much easing Carter into the Eagles’ rotation, following the departures of Ndamukong Suh and Javon Hargrave from a line that powered a run to the Super Bowl last season.

“From a talent standpoint, Jalen is a perfect fit for what the Eagles do up front,” an AFC South Scouting Director told Heavy.

Not only will Carter take up all kinds of space in the run game alongside Fletcher Cox, but his 16.3 pass-rush win rate last season at the University of Georgia gives him the potential to round out one of the more disruptive interior pass-rush duos in the league.

1. Will Anderson, EDGE, Houston Texans

The Texans are seemingly all in on importing the San Francisco 49ers‘ defense to Houston, and handed new head coach DeMeco Ryans a cornerstone to build around in EDGE rusher Will Anderson.

During his time in Tuscaloosa, Anderson was nearly unblockable. The explosive 6-foot-3 and 253-pound defensive lineman posted a stellar 20.4 pass-rush win rate in 2022, along with 14 sacks and 51 pressures. As a three-year starter, Anderson logged 207 pressures, underscoring just how disruptive he can be, while going up against some of the nation’s premier offensive tackles in the SEC.

Houston has a long way to go in terms of building out its front-seven, but Anderson is going to be the kind of player who wreaks havoc on opposing backfields, while potentially drawing double teams to create opportunities for the players around him, as well.

There were rumored rumblings about Brandon Graham “generating interest from other teams” at the start of free agency. The Cleveland Browns were mentioned by name as a reunion with former defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was the main selling point. Well, it sounds like the whole thing was a farce to drive up the price.

Graham eventually inked a one-year deal worth up to $6 million to return to the franchise that drafted him 13th overall in 2010. He was never going anywhere. He never even entertained the idea of leaving. The 35-year-old pass rusher told Derrick Gunn of JAKIB Sports that he wanted to come back and “finish what he started.”

“You always want to see what you’re leaving on the table,” Graham told Gunn. “But I know, for me, I’m telling the younger guys, like I’m doing everything on the backend, I didn’t get it all upfront, in the beginning, because Chip Kelly was here and there was a lot of stuff going on during those times. I’m just happy I survived through it, and I feel like the ending, the way everything is happening now, is kind of like what I’m so thankful for.

“I didn’t want to have to leave so, really, I was just entertaining [it], trying to make it look like I was leaving so it would give me a nice little negotiation with the team. But I wasn’t leaving regardless, but you can’t make it easy for them.”

Mentor to Nolan Smith, Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter

Graham had another goal in mind when he made the decision to return. The one-time Pro Bowler wanted to mentor the younger guys, specifically Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith, and Jordan Davis. He doesn’t care if his snaps go down. It’s his job to pass the torch.

“I know my reps are going to go down because we’re trying to get these boys ready for the future,” Graham said. “So, I’m excited just to help them and give them all the game that I have, to be able to help them, like I told them, ‘I want to see you win, that’s it.’ I know what it feels like. I’m at that point now where I’ve won at everything I’ve wanted to do in this football life. And I want to make sure I pay it back by giving it to them boys.”

Graham registered a career high 11 sacks in 2022 despite playing only 474 snaps, his lowest snap output since 2013 (excluding his injury-shortened 2021 season). Those reps are going to take a bigger hit in 2023. It doesn’t matter. The future Eagles Hall of Famer revealed to Gunn that he stayed late with the youngsters at OTAs – off the practice field, in the weight room – and whispered secrets into their ears while getting a lift in.

“I’m happy that they are really taking it serious,” Graham said. “We would lift and they would do some stuff with me. After every lift, we did Monday through Thursday, and them boys, I could just see that we’re building something more special than we did last year.”

Slippery Field Caused Problems at Super Bowl

It’s no secret that the field conditions at State Farm Stadium in Arizona were less than ideal. Eagles players openly complained about slipping and falling as the controversial Tahoma 31 turf drew comparisons to an ice-skating rink. It was bad. Graham wasn’t about to blame the field for the Eagles’ three-point loss, but it definitely forced them to miss a few sacks.

“It was more about the surface, especially with us sliding, you know you need that traction to be able to get off the block and we was slipping a lot,” Graham said. “I don’t make excuses. I just know that that’s what we were talking about. It was us trying to get out of our own heads a little bit. That O-line, they got blessed, I’ll say that.”

The Kanas City Chiefs offensive line kept Patrick Mahomes clean all day. They didn’t allow a single sack, an impressive feat considering the Eagles had sacked the quarterback a franchise record 70 times in the regular season.

The NFC East went from the worst division in football to arguably the most competitive in a span of 12 months. Three teams — Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Philadelphia Eagles — qualified for the postseason in 2022 in a shocking turn of events that not too many people saw coming.

The Eagles are the returning NFC East champions, but there is a case that the Cowboys could usurp the throne. They boast one of the best defenses in the NFL, guided by three-time Pro Bowler DeMarcus Lawerence and his 54.5 career sacks. He has long been a thorn in Philly’s side, highlighted by his tongue-in-cheek feuds with Lane Johnson.

Lawrence, fresh off a $40 million contract extension, recently jumped on the AP Pro Football podcast to chop it up with host Rob Maaddi. In a wide-ranging interview, the 31-year-old star went into a detailed explanation of why Dallas shouldn’t be counted out. Lawrence feels the gap is closing between the Eagles and Cowboys.

“The main objective for us is to win out our division, and we got a pretty stacked division … I don’t feel like it’s a huge gap at all,” Lawrence said specifically about the Eagles and Cowboys. “I feel like it comes down to certain details of not just the scheme but also of the locker room. I feel like through this time right now, when we head into training camp that, you know, we make those adjustments. We learn those different things that we need to learn about our teammates so we can fully function the way that we should out there on the field.”

Philadelphia (14-3) won the NFC East but flirted with losing the division to Dallas at the end of the year. The Cowboys (12-5) actually beat the Eagles on December 24, then went on to lose to San Francisco in the playoffs. Both storied franchises should very much be in the Super Bowl conversation in 2023.

Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott Working Out

Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has been working out with Ezekiel Elliott — in his backyard, no less. The two-time leading rusher was released by the team on March 15, but he hasn’t been shy about showing up at the 55-yard artificial practice field in Prescott’s backyard throughout the offseason. In fact, a number of Cowboys players have been working out there.

According to the Dallas Morning News, Elliott looks “great” and he’ll continue to train with his “best friend.” He hopes the Cowboys might bring him back eventually if no other offers come in free agency. (And the Eagles are no longer considered a suitor for Elliott).

“That’s my best friend,” Prescott said of Elliott. “We’ll continue to work, continue to push each other. He looks great. I’m excited for whatever opportunity he has coming up, and I’m always his biggest fan.”

Franchise Tag Deadline Looming Large

The deadline for players hit with the franchise tag to sign a multi-year contract is July 17. They can only sign a one-year deal after that date. The Eagles don’t have anyone wearing the franchise tag, but two big names in the NFC East do.

Saquon Barkley (New York Giants) and Tony Pollard (Dallas Cowboys) are looking to leverage the franchise tag into lucrative long-term deals. Pollard seemed confident an agreement would be reached in Dallas, although Barkley’s situation sounds a bit more pessimistic.

The Philadelphia Eagles could consider a “big swing” trade proposal.

The Philly Voice’s Shamus Clancy proposed a trade that would see the Eagles acquiring All-Pro safety Budda Baker of the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for a 2025 third-round draft selection.

Clancy attributes the Eagles’ lack of star power at the safety position and the fact that acquiring Baker would be a “splashy move” as reasons for why Philadelphia should consider the trade.

“The Eagles are currently entering training camp with a three-man battle for the two safety spots between Reed Blankenship, Terrell Edmunds and third-round rookie Sydney Brown,” Clancy wrote in a story published June 21. “As of right now, I’d expect Blankenship and Edmunds to get the first-team reps when things kick off next month, but if the Eagles want to go big and throw their chips on the table in the hopes of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy again, Baker is the splashy move.”

Budda Baker Would Play for Eagles Coach Nick Sirianni

This trade proposal makes sense for several reasons. For one, it’s no secret that Baker has been previously linked to the Eagles. In fact, the 27-year-old has not hid the idea that he would like to play for Philadelphia. When asked what he’s looking for in a new coach, Baker voiced his approval for Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni.

“I like real. Just be real… Just be yourself,” said Baker back in April. “Don’t be anything else. Something that I really like is that Eagles coach. He is who he is.”

Secondly, Baker previously requested a trade because he wants a new deal that would make him the NFL’s highest-paid safety. He had previously signed a four-year, $59 million extension that made him the league’s highest-paid safety back in 2020.

However, this is where things get complicated when it comes to a potential trade to Philadelphia.

Why Eagles Likely Won’t Trade for Budda Baker

Baker is already earning $13 million in 2023 and $14.2 million in 2024. The highest-paid safety in the NFL — average salary per year — entering the 2023 season is the Los Angeles Chargers’ Derwin James at $19 million. In fact, Baker ranks seventh among the highest-paid safeties for the 2023 season.

While Baker certainly is justified in his belief that he should earn more money — he led the Cardinals in tackles last season and is a two-time All-Pro selection — it’s an issue for the Eagles because they likely don’t want to commit that type of money to a safety.

In fact, they allowed their former starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson — who co-led the NFL in interceptions last season — to sign with the Detroit Lions for one year and $8 million.

As Jimmy Kempski of Philly Voice pointed out back in April, a potential Eagles trade for Baker wouldn’t make sense for those financial reasons.

“Gardner-Johnson is 25 years old. Baker is 27, and he has scheduled salaries of $13,096,359 in 2023, and $14,200,000 in 2024,” says Kempski. “Again, Baker is a good player and an outstanding run defender, but his current pay is $5.5 million/year more than what the Eagles were willing to pay Gardner-Johnson. And he’s not happy with his pay. And you’d have to give up a pick to get him. Pass.”

While the idea of Baker lining up in a defensive backfield along with Darius Slay and James Bradberry would be a dream come true, it’s just not a likely scenario given Baker’s financial demands.

Pass rushing isn’t exactly an area that jumps out as a weakness on the Philadelphia Eagles’ roster. The team registered a whopping 70 sacks in 2022, which set a new franchise record for a single season.

Haason Reddick proved to be the maestro, strumming to the tune of a team-high 16 sacks, while four different players recorded double-digit sacks. It was an abundance of riches for the NFC champions. And the defense shouldn’t miss a beat even with stud tackle Javon Hargrave taking his talents to San Francisco and defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon leaving for Arizona.

The Eagles invested two first-round picks back into the trenches, then signed Brandon Graham and Fletcher Cox to team-friendly contracts. The “secret sauce” to their success should remain fluid, especially with pass-rushing coaching gurus Tracy Rocker and Jeremiah Washburn still preaching their unique brand of “selflessness” to everyone in the room.

There is absolutely no need to add another pass-rush specialist, right? Well, let’s play devil’s advocate. ESPN’s Field Yates wondered if the Eagles might pursue defensive end Yannick Ngakoue. The one-time Pro Bowler is one of the biggest free agents on the market after leading the Indianapolis Colts with 9.5 sacks and 29 pressures in 2022.

Is the disruptive Ngakoue a luxury item? Yes, the 28-year-old is the very definition of the term. But, it’s an intriguing idea to hear Yates tell the story:

I know the Eagles have a premiere pass rush and used their second first-round pick on Nolan Smith to further that, but let’s get greedy as it pertains to a top Super Bowl contender. Waves of depth are essential for a pass rush in the NFL, and Ngakoue is a sack specialist who can provide Philly what it felt Robert Quinn would bring when it acquired him last offseason. Ngakoue won’t exactly come cheap, but do you think I’m worried about the Eagles finding a way to make a move work under the salary cap? He had 9.5 sacks and 29 pressures last season with the Colts.

Georgia Rookies ‘All About Their Business’

One reason why the Eagles don’t have to make any additional moves is thanks to their Georgia connection. Rookies Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith came into OTAs with a lot of excitement behind their dominant frames — and they only fueled more buzz after taking the field.

Defensive end Josh Sweat noticed their no-nonsense attitude right from the jump. He credited their national championship runs at Georgia for maturing both players at a young age.

“They’re great. The work ethic is pretty crazy for both of them,” Sweat told reporters on May 24. “They’re already working. Shoot, they’re professionals. It’s actually surprising coming out of college but they’re working. They are just here to learn and they’re making improvements quickly. They’ve been on championship teams already. They know how to go about their business.”

Jalen Hurts Nominated for ESPY Award

The ESPY Awards will air on July 12 from the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles where ABC plans to broadcast the show live. The fun-filled spectacle has become the sports world’s version of the Academy Awards so expect plenty of hijinks and humor.

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been nominated for Best NFL Player, although he would have to beat out Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City) to win the award. Nick Bosa (San Francisco) and Justin Jefferson (Minnesota) are also nominated in the category.

There is no drama lurking around the corner for the Philadelphia Eagles. Jalen Hurts received a bank-breaking contract extension, then Howie Roseman deftly retooled the trenches thanks to a masterful draft. The Eagles could be better than the 2022 team that advanced all the way to the Super Bowl.

As rumors continue to swirl about one more move – Budda Baker remains disgruntled and stuck in Arizona – it might be time to accept the roster as its constructed. And let’s squash some “overblown storylines,” too. NFL Media’s Eric Edholm highlighted the losses of offensive coordinator Shane Steichen and defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon as two changes that could tilt the balance of power. Or, more likely, it’s much ado about nothing.

“Losing both coordinators, Shane Steichen (Colts) and Jonathan Gannon (Cardinals), can’t go overlooked,” Edholm wrote. “But it can be overblown, and I think that’s what’s happening here. If losing both coordinators is the Eagles’ biggest worry now, these should be considered first-world problems for an NFL team to have.”

There is a feeling that the Eagles may not “miss a beat” defensively despite Gannon’s departure. New defensive coordinator Sean Desai has a reputation for being more aggressive than Gannon, plus he has been entrusted with coaching up first-round picks Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith. Offensively, well, Hurts will be hooked to the hip of lifelong mentor Brian Johnson who takes the play-calling sheet from Steichen. That relationship has a lot of people excited.

“Our relationship off the field won’t change,” Johnson told reporters on May 11. “Me being in this position now will just allow us to even go deeper in our relationship and have that camaraderie in terms of ‘what do you like, this is how we’re going to attack’ and just being able to have those conversations to be ready to make adjustments as we need to.”

Haason Reddick Has ‘More Levels’ to Reach

It was a prideful homecoming for Haason Reddick who inked a 3-year, $45 million contract to play for the team he grew up rooting for. The 28-year-old set career highs for sacks (16), quarterback hits (26) and forced fumbles (5) last season en route to his first Pro Bowl. He was the biggest playmaker on a star-studded defense. And, to hear Reddick tell it, he’s looking to hit another level in 2023.

“As crazy as it sounds, I feel as if there’s still more levels for me to tap into,” Reddick told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “I’m extremely excited and looking to build on another great year. I want to continue to progress on what I did and what the team did last year.”

Pro Football Focus Ranks Eagles D-Line, O-Line

The Eagles took the top spot in the defensive line and offensive line rankings compiled by Pro Football Focus. The analytics-based website called out the addition of rookie defensive tackle Jalen Carter who could offset the loss of Javon Hargrave in free agency.

Meanwhile, Pro Football Focus ranked Philadelphia at No. 31 in linebacker play due to inexperience and turnover at the position. The Eagles are banking on the development of second-year man Nakobe Dean, paired alongside veteran Nicholas Morrow, to keep the unit heading in the right direction. Remember, the team lost Kyzir White and T.J. Edwards in free agency.

The New England Patriots could be set to land two of the biggest names out there in free agency. For starters, they are picking up steam as the favorites to land five-time Pro Bowler DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins spent “significant time” with head coach Bill Belichick during a recent visit to New England, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

The Tennessee Titans are the other high-profile team in hot pursuit of Hopkins. The star receiver is seeking a one-year deal worth $15 million, with aims to play for a Super Bowl contender. He would immediately slot in as the No. 1 target for third-year quarterback Mac Jones in New England.

Meanwhile, the Patriots could be looking to upgrade their backfield after the franchise released James Robinson. CBS Sports’ Cody Benjamin thinks Ezekiel Elliott would be a great insurance policy behind Rhamondre Stevenson. He predicted Elliott – a two-time NFL rushing champion for the Dallas Cowboys – could ink a one-year contract for $5 million with the Patriots.

Benjamin wrote: “New England has young Rhamondre Stevenson as a potential offensive focal point, but after cutting the injury-riddled James Robinson before he could even make his Patriots debut, they could use proven insurance. Elliott may be past his full-time days, but as a pass blocker and short-term rotational piece, he’d fit right into a typically crowded Bill Belichick backfield.”

Eagles Had Been Linked to Ezekiel Elliott

The Eagles had been connected strongly to Ezekiel Elliott at the beginning of free agency, but nothing ever materialized. They picked up Rashaad Penny and re-signed Boston Scott before trading for D’Andre Swift. Head coach Nick Sirianni has gone out of his way to hype up the Eagles’ current stable of running backs. He sounded confident and comfortable when talking about the room.

“It’s a good problem to have as a coach. It’s just a really good problem,” Sirianni told reporters on June 8. “We’re really deep at that spot. It’s going to be great battles to who makes this football team, and they’re all going to be able to contribute in some sort of way.”

Sirianni also dumped praise on Elliott when the Cowboys first released him, calling him a “great, great player.” Seeing him in a midnight green jersey seems out of the question, though.

“He’s a heck of a player. He’s a great, great player,” Sirianni said. “I had the opportunity to watch from our sideline four times in the last two years and think he’s a really outstanding player.”

Nick Sirianni Addressed DeAndre Hopkins Rumors

There has been random speculation, mostly unfounded rumor, that the Eagles might make a run at DeAndre Hopkins.

Throwing him into a three-headed monster, alongside A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, would form the most lethal receiving trio in the NFL. They would be borderline uncoverable, especially with Jalen Hurts dealing dimes to them. It’s a fun idea, but don’t waste no time on it. The Eagles don’t seem interested.

“We have some young guys in the fold that I really like,” Nick Sirianni said. “So, I’m really pleased with that room. You never know what’s going to happen, but I really like our room, and I’m really pleased with that room.”

Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields is a blur in the open field, arguably the closest thing the NFL has to a human video game right now. He possesses a lot of the same DNA that turned Jalen Hurts into an MVP candidate, too, including his stoic leadership ability.

T.J. Edwards has been floored by Fields’ freak athleticism combined with his stress-free demeanor in the huddle. The Bears are expecting big things out of the third-year starter who set the new record for rushing yards by a quarterback in a single game when he rumbled for 178 yards. Fields is one of the most exciting youngsters in football as he draws lofty comparisons to Hurts.

“I mean, I think one thing with Jalen, he was always just so calm and collected. That’s why we looked to him so much, just because he’s always that calming factor,” Edwards told SiriusXM NFL Radio. “You do see similarities with J Fields. He doesn’t seem to get rattled out there in terms of when we’re mixing up looks on him like that. And just what I’ve seen, with my first year being here, him just throwing the ball … dude’s got such a strong arm and he’s been very accurate during OTAs and minicamp.”

Edwards continued: “It’s exciting to see especially since you add in the leg factor when we’re just in helmets and things like that. I’m really excited to play with a guy like that, a guy who can make all the plays, and a guy who can also lead this team. He’s definitely the guy so it’s exciting to be around.”

Eagles QB Jalen Hurts ‘Works Like a Madman’

The relationship between Jalen Hurts and new offensive coordinator Brian Johnson is a special one. They have known each other for almost two decades, with Hurts looking up to the winningest quarterback in Utah football history. Johnson will take over the play-calling duties from Shane Steichen, but don’t count on much else changing. The Eagles aren’t putting any ceiling on Hurts. And he’s not putting one on himself.

“We’ll never put a ceiling on what he can accomplish,” Johnson told reporters on May 11. “One of the messages that we spoke about to the offense was yeah, there’s no ceiling, but let’s have an extremely high floor, too, and have a level of play that’s really consistent at a high level, and then his talent can take over.

“I think with Jalen, nothing that he ever does will surprise me. He works like a madman. He’s very, very diligent. He’s very intentional about what he wants, and that shows on a daily basis in how he operates.”

Eagles Mourn Hall of Famer Bob Brown

The Eagles are mourning the passing of legendary tackle Bob Brown. He died on June 16 in Oakland (California) at the age of 81. Brown, a first-round draft pick in 1964, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004 after successful stints with the Eagles, Raiders, and Rams. He earned five All-Pro nods during his five seasons in Philadelphia, plus made the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1960s.

The Philadelphia Eagles may be forced to make a tough decision before the start of the season, according to an analyst.

As noted by Delaware News Journal’s Martin Frank, the Eagles may be forced to make several tough cuts before the start of the season. One of the seven veterans on Philadelphia’s roster listed as a potential cut candidate is none other than defensive end Derek Barnett.

Frank argues that Barnett enters the season at a position — edge rusher — where the Eagles have one too many quality pieces.

“Barnett never panned out as a first-round pick in 2017, and he’s coming off a torn ACL,” writes Frank. “There’s no word on if Barnett will be ready for training camp. But he’s in the final year of a two-year extension, and the Eagles can cut him with a post-June 1st designation and thus only have a $3 million dead money hit. The Eagles are deep at edge rusher after drafting Nolan Smith at the end of the first round, in addition to returning Haason Reddick (16 sacks), Brandon Graham (11) and Josh Sweat (11).”

Why the Eagles Could Move on From Derek Barnett

The 26-year-old is a former first-round draft pick of the Eagles, having been selected with the 14th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. While he’s never quite lived up to that billing, he had served as a starter since the 2018 season prior to suffering an ACL injury during the season opener last year.

During his stint as a starter, Barnett never racked up more than 6.5 sacks in a single season. During his other two full years as a starter — he was limited to six games during the 2018 season — Barnett racked up sack totals of 5.5 sacks and two sacks.

What hurts Barnett’s place on the roster entering the season is not only the amount of depth that Philadelphia has on its roster, its the fact that the Eagles almost had a historic season when it comes to sacking the quarterback last year. The Eagles racked up 72 sacks as a team without Barnett last season, the third-highest total in NFL history.

As Frank notes, the Eagles could release Barnett with a $3 million dead money hit. Considering it’s unlikely he regains his starting role, it simply makes more sense to either release him or possible trade him to a team that’s seeking an edge rusher. The latter scenario becomes more likely as the preseason winds down and a team possibly suffers a key injury at the position.

Barnett is currently in the midst of a $14 million deal with the Eagles, with his cap number due to be a little more than $3 million for the upcoming season.

Eagles Not Ready to Give Up on Derek Barnett: Analyst

While many believe Barnett has seen his last days with the Eagles, one longtime local reporter doesn’t believe that’s the case. According to a report from Derrick Gunn back in May, Philadelphia is not ready to give up on their veteran defensive end.

“In no way, shape, or form is this team ready to give up on Derek Barnett yet,” Gunn told JAKIB Sports. “Say what you want to say about him. You can talk about the lost season, and look at the numbers they put up without him last year. You can talk about his mental mistakes from previous years. But Derek Barnett does have talent. He has the capability. I don’t think they’re ready to give up on him yet.”

Based upon the current depth chart, Barnett would project as the backup to Josh Sweat, who is coming off of a career-best 11-sack campaign.

In the modern NFL, it seems the key to success rests on having an explosive offense.

The Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs were two of the more prolific offenses in the league in 2022, and they met in the Super Bowl.

So, too, were the Cincinnati Bengals and Los Angeles Rams the prior year, along with the Chiefs and Buffalo Bills who squared off for the Lamar Hunt Trophy in January 2022.

There’s little reason to doubt that having an explosive offense won’t be integral to playing for the Lombardi come February 2024.

Here’s a look at which offenses have the chance to be the top-10 most explosive in the NFL during the 2023 season:

1) Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles return the MVP runner-up, Jalen Hurts, and prolific weapons such as wide receivers A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith, along with dynamic pass-catching tight end Dallas Goedert. Not only does Philadelphia return loads of star power on offense, but the Eagles also added a pair of versatile running backs in D’Andre Swift and Rashaad Penny to an already explosive offense over the offseason.

Last season, the Eagles finished second in points per game, while producing 107 explosive passing plays with 44 explosive runs, and that’s with Hurts missing two games due to a shoulder injury.

Given the combination of Hurts’, and his continued improvement as his career has progressed, an electrifying supporting cast, and arguably the game’s most dominant offensive line, the Eagles’ offense has all the ingredients to launch a historic 2023 season.

2) Miami Dolphins

Few things are more dangerous in the NFL than speed, and the Dolphins have it all over the place on offense.

Last season, only the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills had a higher Yards per Play average than the Dolphins’ 6.0.

Meanwhile, with Tyreek Hill entering his second season in head coach Mike McDaniel’s scheme, and Jaylen Waddle his third NFL season, there might not be a more dynamic receiving duo in the league this fall.

Perhaps the only thing that held the Dolphins’ offense in check last season was quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s battle with multiple concussions that cost him four games in 2022. If Tagovailoa can stay healthy, the Dolphins have all the pieces to be one of the more difficult offenses to defend in the entire league.

3) Kansas City Chiefs

The 2022 season, and the departure of Tyreek Hill, were proof positive that so long as Patrick Mahomes is the Chiefs’ quarterback, Kansas City’s offense is going to be among the most explosive in the sport.

For Mahomes and Co. this season, the question will become whether the offense can build on a campaign that saw the Chiefs lead the league in scoring and Yards per Play, or if the rest of the league can find some way to neutralize the likes of receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling?

It would be a fool’s errand to bet against the Chiefs, especially as running back Isiah Pacheco enters his second season, and general manager Brett Veach sunk significant resources into beefing up the offensive line in front of Mahomes.

4) Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Burrow remains one of the most clutch quarterbacks in the NFL today, boasting a balanced and deeply explosive supporting cast, and the Bengals went out and added elite offensive tackle Orlando Brown and consistent pass-catching tight end Irv Smith. Cincinnati isn’t going anywhere.

While the Bengals were only middle of the pack in total explosive plays in 2022, only seven teams averaged more than Cincinnati’s 26.1 points per game, and Ja’Marr Chase’s ability to both take the top off a defense as well as turn a routine screen play into a double-digit gain are the hallmark of this offense.

Burrow is still ascending. Each year that Burrow and Chase get to play together it seems this duo becomes more prolific. That’s bad news for the rest of the league.

5) Buffalo Bills

A crucial key to making the upper echelon of this list is boasting a prolific quarterback-receiver duo, and the combination of Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs remains one of the game’s most explosive.

Buffalo finished the 2022 campaign second in Yards Per Play Average, second in scoring, and Allen led the seventh-most prolific passing offense in the NFL, averaging 258.1 yards per game. Diggs was a critical factor in the Bills’ offensive success, averaging 13.2 Yards per Catch, and 3.9 Yards After the Catch per reception, with Allen posting a nearly perfect 124.3 passer rating on his 149 targets.

The problem for the Bills, at least down the stretch, has been this offense tends to devolve into boom-or-bust territory, and in order to take the next step toward winning a championship, more depth of explosiveness and consistency will be key.

6) Seattle Seahawks

Few teams have done a better job of collecting dynamic talent at the wide receiver position in recent years than the Seahawks, and if Geno Smith is able to build on a stellar 2022 campaign, this is going to be a team to watch in 2023.

Seattle has clearly prioritized explosiveness at receiver, selecting dynamic former Ohio State Buckeye Jaxon Smith-Jjigba in the first round of April’s draft, after already boasting Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf. The pair of Seattle veterans combined for 2,081 yards with 15 touchdowns last season. Throw in Kenneth Walker dashing to a 1,050-yard and 9-touchdown campaign, and this offense is nightmare fuel for opposing defensive coordinators.

7) Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys‘ season ended with a whimper in San Francisco, one of the more bizarre play designs you’ll ever see, on the final play of the NFC Divisional Playoff Game. But, thanks to some marquee additions, Dallas aims to light up the scoreboard and dictate to opposing defenses in 2023.

Dallas stole Brandin Cooks for a song (a fifth-round pick, in a trade with the Houston Texans), and the savvy speedster could be an ideal complement to CeeDee Lamb the Cowboys lacked last season. Meanwhile, Tony Pollard taking on an expanded role in the backfield alongside reliable veteran Ronald Jones should create opportunities for more explosive runs.

Last season, Pollard had 31 explosive runs. If he can return to form following a fractured fibula, it will give the Cowboys’ offense a major boost.

8) New York Jets

On paper, the Jets have all the trappings of an offense that could emerge as one of the league’s most explosive; Aaron Rodgers’ arrival at quarterback, Garrett Wilson blossoming in his second NFL season, Breece Hall returning from a torn ACL … But, some inside the league are skeptical that this team is ready to take flight.

“Are we wholly sure the Jets will be that explosive,” an AFC South Scout told Heavy. “Aaron isn’t known for taking risks downfield, which is where the explosive plays come from, and Hall is coming off an ACL. Aaron may be the most risk-averse great quarterback out there.”

To the scout’s point, Rodgers finished 2022 ranked 18th in the NFL in Air Yards per Attempt, averaging just 3.9, and it remains to be seen if Hall can return to his dynamic form immediately post-injury. The Jets will undoubtedly be better, might compete for a playoff berth — or more, but it remains to be seen if the hype around this offense being more explosive is merited.

9) Los Angeles Chargers

Will this be the season, with Kellen Moore arriving as offensive coordinator, that Justin Herbert leads the Chargers on a charge to the upper echelon of the AFC?

Los Angeles certainly has the weapons; first-round pick Quentin Johnston rounds out an embarrassment of riches at receiver, alongside Mike Williams (14.2 Yards per Reception) and Keenan Allen (11.8 Yards per reception), with touchdown-maker Austin Ekeler in the backfield.

Giving Herbert, and his mammoth arm, more weapons is a sound strategy. Versatility in target share should help this offense light up the scoreboard in 2023.

10) Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens took care of Lamar Jackson this offseason, and not just by making him the highest-paid quarterback in league history.

Baltimore made a big splash by signing veteran field-stretcher Odell Beckham Jr. and also drafted speedster Zay Flowers, who averaged 15.3 Yards per Reception over the course of his collegiate career at Boston College. While Mark Andrews remains, as a prolific red-zone weapon and security blanket over the middle for Jackson, added speed on the perimeter should allow Jackson to take advantage of the deep ball more often in 2023.

The Philadelphia Eagles could make a tough decision when it comes to their 53-man roster, according to one writer.

Defensive tackle Kentavius Street is one of seven Eagles veterans who could be in “jeopardy” of losing their jobs, Delaware News Journal’s Martin Frank wrote in a story published June 13.

Why Kentavius Street Could Be Released

Although Street had a career-high 3.5 sacks last season, the Eagles already have several players taking up that position.

“He’s coming into a loaded position for the Eagles with [seven-time Pro Bowler] Fletcher Cox, first-round pick Jalen Carter, 2022 first-round pick Jordan Davis and 2021 third-round pick Milton Williams,” Frank wrote. “The Eagles also have seventh-round pick Moro Ojomo, along with Marlon Tuipulotu, who’s working his way back from a torn ACL. So Street, another low-cost free agent signing, doesn’t have a spot locked up.”

It’s hard to argue against Frank’s point that Philadelphia is filled with depth at defensive tackle. Cox and Davis are the projected starters are Fletcher Cox and 2022 first-round draft pick Jordan Davis, and behind them are Carter and Williams.

In other words, Street is fifth on the pecking order of defensive tackles. If there’s any argument for Street remaining on the roster by the time the regular season rolls around, it’s that the Eagles had six defensive tackles on their roster during the 2022 season.

And, according an April story in The Philadelphia Inquirer, Street “figures to be part of a defensive tackle rotation” this season. And NJ.com wrote in April that “part of Street’s game is the power he generates when trying to get into a gap and cause pressure up the middle,” noting that he had been “focusing on being more explosive once the ball is snapped and being quick enough to chase down carriers.”

Street is signed to a one-year, $1.28 million deal with the Eagles. Not only is it a bargain-level deal, Street could be cut by Philadelphia for a dead cap hit of just $500,000.

Outside of his 3.5 sacks, Street also posted career-high totals with 29 tackles and eight quarterback hits to go along with 518 defensive snaps.

According to Pro Football Focus, Street’s advanced numbers are less than stellar. His defensive grade last season was just 49.2, which was the lowest of any of the Eagles’ defensive tackles outside of Marlon Tuipulotu.

Street’s spot on the roster is far from locked up, Frank wrote. It might take an impressive training camp or a preseason injury by another defensive tackle to cement Street’s spot on the 53-man roster

Derek Barnett’s Roster Spot Also in ‘Jeopardy,’ Writer Says

Another Eagles veteran who could be on the fringe of the roster is none other than longtime defensive end Derek Barnett. The former starter and first-round draft pick also enters training camp at a loaded position, as Frank notes.

“Barnett never panned out as a first-round pick in 2017, and he’s coming off a torn ACL,” Frank wrote. “There’s no word on if Barnett will be ready for training camp. But he’s in the final year of a two-year extension, and the Eagles can cut him with a post-June 1st designation and thus only have a $3 million dead money hit. The Eagles are deep at edge rusher after drafting Nolan Smith at the end of the first round, in addition to returning Haason Reddick (16 sacks), Brandon Graham (11) and Josh Sweat (11).”

Barnett missed virtually the entire season due to a torn ACL and the Eagles ended up posting the third-highest sack total in NFL history (70 sacks). With three established pass rushers and first-round draft pick Nolan Smith in the fold, it might be only a matter of time before Philadelphia moves on from Barnett.

The Philadelphia Eagles won’t be getting one rumored upgrade to their secondary ahead of training camp. Adrian Amos has inked a one-year deal with the New York Jets, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. The deal will pay him $1.75 million in base salary, plus $2.25 million in incentives.

Amos, who started 17 games last year for Green Bay, was considered the best free-agent safety on the market. Heavy’s Matt Lombardo called the 30-year-old a “best fit” for the Eagles back in early May, right after the team added Terrell Edmunds and Justin Evans in free agency. Philadelphia also selected Illinois standout Sydney Brown in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft. The starting spot opposite Reed Blankenship appears up for grabs at training camp.

New defensive coordinator Sean Desai stressed the importance of competition during his introductory press conference. It’s one of Nick Sirianni’s five core principles, and the Eagles will have plenty of it when camp begins on July 25. That process has already started.

“I think one of Coach’s [Nick Sirianni] — and I believe this is one of the places we connected — central themes is compete,” Desai told reporters on May 11. “That’s really what it is. Regardless of whatever we all may think of the depth and all that stuff, it’s about daily competition, and that starts right now. I mean, we just got out of a meeting and one of our rooms, two rooms, one of them did a Kahoots competition with their players.”

Editor’s note: Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform featuring user-generated multiple-choice quizzes that can be accessed via a web browser or the Kahoot app (via Medium). Schools, companies, teachers of all sorts — and, apparently, NFL coaches — are using it to teach people how to compete.

John Johnson Still Available in Free Agency

There is another player the Eagles could still target in free agency if they wanted to upgrade. John Johnson remains unsigned after getting released by the Cleveland Browns. The 27-year-old safety has 492 total tackles in 83 career games (77 starts).

Johnson, a third-round pick in 2017, also has 12 interceptions and 41 pass breakups along with 4 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries. Remember, the Eagles were in the mix to land him during Nick Sirianni’s first year at the helm. Instead, the team inked Anthony Harris in free agency and ran it back with Rodney McLeod. Johnson signed a three-year, $33.75 million deal in Cleveland where he only lasted two seasons.

Browns general manager Andrew Berry said: “I will start by saying John, the first thought probably is just gratitude in terms of what he has done the past two years on the field and in the locker room for us.”

Browns Hire Eagles Front Office Staffer

Cleveland nabbed a well-liked front office staffer away from Philadelphia on June 15. Grant Reiter is headed to the Browns to be Football Administration and Research Assistant, according to Brad Stainbrook. Previously, he had worked in the Eagles football transactions department while serving as a part-time writer for The 33rd Team. Reiter specializes in contract negotiations and salary-cap management.

The Philadelphia Eagles fully intend to use first-round pick Nolan Smith as a pass rusher. Let’s get that out in the open to start the conversation. He is insanely gifted in the athletic gene department, with his 4.39-second 40 and 41.5-inch vertical.

Calling Smith a freak athlete is not an understatement. The 6-foot-2, 238-pounder has rightfully drawn comparisons to Hasson Reddick for those reasons. He is expected to eat quarterbacks for lunch in the NFL. But, special-teams coordinator Michael Clay noted that Smith blocked a few punts in college, including a big one for Georgia that resulted in a safety against Missouri. There is a chance the Eagles throw him on special teams.

“You see Nolan Smith blocked a few punts in Georgia. He’s an athlete, a freak athlete that you could use,” Clay told reporters on May 11. “Sydney Brown did a heck of a job in terms of his career at Illinois. Him and Devin Witherspoon were their gunners, and having the opportunity for those guys coming in with their speed and the prowess of playing some special teams, coming in, I think it’s only going to make this team better because competition usually breeds the greatness in everything. Having guys come in, whether they’re young, second-year guys, I think it’s going to be beneficial for our team going forward.”

Brown, as Clay pointed out, was an absolute stud on special teams at Illinois. He flashed his 4.47-second 40 speed as a gunner on punt returns and consistently made plays, like slapping the ball out. He is a certified playmaker in all three phases.

Nolan Smith Attends Von Miller Pass Rush Summit

Nolan Smith has made no bones about his admiration for Von Miller. He has studied the perennial Pro Bowler with great intention, trying to mimic and perfect his patented “ghost move.” So, it shouldn’t surprise anyone to hear that Smith recently attended the Von Miller Pass Rush Summit in Las Vegas. He was there to learn and punish any dummy bags in his way.

Smith told Chris Long that he is playing his rookie year with a chip on his shoulder. He was projected to go as high as No. 10 in the draft, then fell all the way down to No. 30. He’s ready to show people what they missed.

“A lot of things stick in my head but, you know, that’s why I’m here because I always had a chip on my shoulder,” Smith told “The Green Light” podcast, via Philly Sports Network. “Sometimes I put it on myself and sometimes it’s an actual chip but this time it’s an actual chip. I don’t want to talk about it. I just want to play football.”

Training Camp Battles: Safety Position

The biggest battle at Eagles camp might be at the safety position. Reed Blankenship and Terrell Edmunds got the first-team reps at OTAs, but watch out for stiff competition from rookie Sydney Brown once the pads come on. He was flying all over the field and looked hungry to steal a job. Pro Football Focus called out a battle for the starting safety spot, adding that Brown has a real opportunity to snake the job from Edmunds.

Trevor Sikkema wrote: “Edmunds never quite lived up to his draft pedigree as a first-rounder and has graded below 70.0 in four of his five seasons as a pro. Brown is a third-rounder who picked off six passes and broke up six more in a box role this past season.”

The NFL All-Pro list is the definitive measure of a player’s stature as the elite of the elite at his position, and the honor that garners the most respect when it comes to defining legacies.

Early summer is a time when hope springs eternal for NFL teams, and players, alike, as minicamps wind down and the grind of training camp and the upcoming season await with much optimism and promise. It’s also the perfect time to project out which players will shine the brightest in the fall.

Projecting which players will wind up as a First-Team All-Pro can be a daunting task, but easy all at once, by simply placing the name of the best player at his position the prior season into your projected list for the next one.

But, in order to make things a bit more interesting, to shine the spotlight a little brighter on some of the stars of the game that are knocking on the doorstep of reaching “elite’ status, we opted instead to make the list of players most likely to become a First-Team All-Pro selection for the first time.

Here are our selections:

QB: Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles

Hurts very nearly stole the MVP and a first-team All-Pro slot from Patrick Mahomes last season, but the stage seems set for the 24-year-old to make another significant stride in his development. Given that this will be Hurts’ second season throwing to dynamic receiver A.J. Brown, as well as DeVonta Smith’s third NFL season (when receivers typically begin to peak), all of the pieces are in place for Hurts to take his game and the Eagles’ outlook to new heights.

RB: Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns

Chubb was a Second-Team All-Pro in 2022, and he’s one of the most feared backs in the game. The combination of the Browns‘ run-based scheme, an offensive line that can make a strong claim as one of the two best in the league, and Chubb’s ferocious running style give the 27-year-old a great chance to make the varsity squad in 2023.

RB: Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons

Running back might be the easiest position to make the leap to first-team All-Pro as a rookie. Especially when a rookie running back can expect the kind of workload Robinson can in Atlanta, combined with his explosiveness as a runner and versatility as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. If Robinson’s 104 forced missed tackles and 1,o71 yards after contact from last season at the University of Texas translate to the NFL, look out.

WR: A.J. Brown, Philadelphia Eagles

Not only was A.J. Brown a touchdown-maker, catching a career-high 11 in his first season in Philadelphia, he was a monster averaging 6.4 Yards After the Catch per Reception. If that was Brown’s introduction to the Eagles‘ offense, imagine how much more prolific he’ll be in a second season as Hurts’ favorite target.

WR: Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals

Chase was a second-team All-Pro selection in 2021, but each year the dynamic receiver’s chemistry seems to strengthen with quarterback Joe Burrow. Injuries limited Chase to just 12 games last season, yet he still produced 1,046 receiving yards with nine touchdowns. Given that Chase averaged 4.8 Yards after The Catch per Reception, just imagine how productive he’ll be if he can stay on the field for the entire 2023 campaign.

WR: Jaylen Waddle, Miami Dolphins

One might think that the addition of a speedster like Tyreek Hill on the other side might limit the production of a player like Waddle, but that’s not exactly how 2022 played out. Sure, Waddle only caught 75 passes (down from 104 in 2022), but his yards per catch average nearly doubled to an eye-popping 18.1. Waddle’s speed gives him the ability to take the top off a defense. Playing opposite Hill creates space. Don’t be surprised if Waddle finds a way to build on last season’s 1,356-yard and 8-touchdown outburst.

TE: T.J. Hockenson, Minnesota Vikings

Hockenson was an absolute revelation to the Vikings‘ offense, after arriving in a midseason trade. The 25-year-old caught 60 passes for 519 yards with 3 touchdowns during the final 10 games of the season. With Justin Jefferson flying down the perimeter, expect there to be plenty of room for Hockenson to operate underneath, and plenty of check down targets from Kirk Cousins for him to rack up yards and touchdowns this season.

LT: Andrew Thomas, New York Giants

Andrew Thomas is one of the ascending stars along the offensive line, and the trajectory of his career has been ticking upward the past two seasons, in a big way. A Second-Team All-Pro selection in 2022, Thomas only allowed three sacks and continued to emerge as a stalwart along the Giants’ offensive line.

RT: Kaleb McGary, Atlanta Falcons

McGary is a dominant presence along the line of scrimmage, and one of the Falcons’ building blocks on offense. Last season, McGary was Pro Football Focus’ No. 3 highest-rated offensive tackle, with an 86.6 overall grade. The addition of Robinson in the backfield will give McGary even more opportunities to showcase his ability as a lead-blocker in the running game, where he posted the highest run-blocking grade of anyone not named Trent Williams, at 91.6.

LG: Joe Thuney, Kansas City Chiefs

Joe Thuney has been a stalwart of consistency throughout his career, and he has elevated his game to new heights since arriving in Kansas City in 2021. Last season, Thuney was instrumental in keeping Mahomes upright, allowing only one sack and 15 total pressures. That kind of consistency up front makes it easy for a freelancer like Mahomes to create big-play opportunities.

RG: Teven Jenkins, Chicago Bears

Teven Jenkins is a road grader up front in the running game, a tactician in pass protection, and one of the anchors of the Chicago Bears‘ offensive line. Last season, Jenkins only allowed 2.0 sacks and 12 quarterback pressures. He’s already on the cusp of breaking through as an All-Pro, and if the Bears’ offense makes major strides, this could be his season to crack the list.

C: Creed Humphrey, Kansas City Chiefs

Creed Humphrey is the most consistently dominant young center in this league. Full stop. Humphrey is a complete mauler as a run-blocker, producing an elite 91.1 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, and a stonewall in pass protection, where he didn’t allow a single sack last season, with just one surrendered through the first two seasons of his career. Maybe more impressive than the fact that Humphrey allowed just 21, quarterback hits is that he was flagged for only 4 penalties in 1,138 snaps in 2022. Humphrey is an ascending talent and perhaps next in line to be a permanent All-Pro fixture.

EDGE: Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders

There are few pass-rushers who strike as much fear in opposing offensive tackles as Maxx Crosby does when he’s flying off the edge. It is almost unfair that a player has that much burst and that much speed, flying off the corner. Beyond freakish athleticism, Crosby’s productivity speaks for itself; 15.0 sacks, 81 total pressures, 4 forced fumbles, and 70 tackles in 2022 as the centerpiece of the Raiders‘ defense. Given the exotic blitz packages defensive coordinator Patrick Graham is accustomed to drawing up, don’t be surprised if even those numbers from Crosby take a big jump in 2023.

EDGE: Montez Sweat, Washington Commanders

Montez Swat is borderline unblockable off the edge, where he produced 8.0 sacks and 63 total pressures as the centerpiece of the Commanders’ front-seven in 2022. What makes Sweat special is that he’s one of the more dominant run-stopping edge players in the game, on top of being a game-wrecker when rushing the passer. Sweat is one of the more complete players at his position, and if he continues his upward trajectory, could find himself on All-Pro lists this season.

DL: D.J. Reader, Cincinnati Bengals

Injuries limited D.J. Reader’s production last season, he missed six games due to a knee injury while finishing with 27 tackles and 1.0 sack, but don’t let those numbers fool you into thinking this isn’t one of the top players at his position. Reader is a matchup nightmare, a dominant interior pass-rusher, and as steady as they come against the run. If Reader can stay on the field all season, 2023 could be the year he solidifies his place among the elite of the position.

DL: Dexter Lawrence, New York Giants

Few humans walking the earth can move with the speed and burst that Dexter Lawrence shows on each snap, at a mammoth 6-foot-4 and 342 pounds. Not only does Lawrence take up boatloads of space against the run, but his 9.0 sacks and 63 total pressures are absolute game-wreckers up the middle for opposing quarterbacks. Lawrence was a Second-Team All-Pro selection in 2022, and playing another season in coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale’s scheme should create even more opportunities for Lawrence to destroy things up the middle. If he does, well, etch his name on the First-Team list this season.

LB: Tremaine Edmunds, Chicago Bears

Edmunds arrives in Chicago coming off the most dominant season of his prolific career. Once again surpassing 100 total tackles, Edmunds produced a team-high 101, while holding opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of just 87.1. All that, only to leave Buffalo without a contract extension. Given Edmunds’ productivity, his talent, and the added motivation that comes with being spurned by your former team, expect big things from the centerpiece of the Bears’ revamped defense in 2023.

LB: Devin Lloyd, Jacksonville Jaguars

Lloyd didn’t waste any time throwing his weight around, as a rookie in the Jaguars’ linebacker corps last season. The Utah alum’s three interceptions led all linebackers, and he was consistently around the football, carding 110 total tackles. If Lloyd builds on his stellar rookie season, don’t be surprised to find him on this list by year’s end.

LB: Dre Greenlaw, San Francisco 49ers

A strong case can be made that each member of the 49ers’ front-seven could wind up an All-Pro, but Greenlaw should benefit more than most from Javon Hargrave’s arrival. Last season Greenlaw had 127 tackles and was just a brick wall against the run. Expect that to continue in 2023.

CB: Charvarius Ward, San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers boast one of the most talented defenses in the league, and the best defensive back on the roster might be Charvarius Ward, who is criminally underrated outside the Bay Area. Opposing quarterbacks managed only an 88.2 passer rating when targeting Ward last season, and receivers had little room to operate, averaging just 11 yards per catch. Given the combination of the 49ers’ ferocious front-seven and Ward’s prowess in man coverage, the stage could be set for the 27-year-old to have a career year in 2023.

CB: Asante Samuel Jr., Los Angeles Chargers

Entering his third season, Samuel Jr. hasn’t just already proven himself to be a legitimate ballhawk, but he continues to get better. Quarterbacks rarely targeted Samuel Jr. last season, and when they did, they managed a meager 97.6 passer rating on those throws. Samuel Jr. already etched his name in the record books, becoming the first player to pull down three interceptions in his playoff debut. If Samuel builds on a stellar finish to 2022, there’s a good chance he finishes 2023 as an All-Pro.

S: Kyle Hamilton, Baltimore Ravens

Hamilton is as versatile as they come at safety, and aims to build on a prolific rookie season, that was capped by him leading the Ravens’ defense with 9.0 tackles in a Wild Card loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Not only does Hamilton thrive in coverage, where he played both deep safety and in the slot while holding opposing receivers to only 9.9 Yards per Reception, but he’s a real weapon up near the line of scrimmage. Hamilton’s 2.0 sacks and 20 run-stops underscore his value at all levels of the Ravens’ defense.

S: Antoine Winfield Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Winfield Jr. is an ascending talent at the safety position, who could see more opportunities to create turnovers as head coach Todd Bowles dials up the pressure via the blitz this season. Moving to free safety this season could create more opportunities for Winfield to flash in coverage, where he held opposing receivers to just 10.5 Yards per Reception in 2022. If the Buccaneers’ defense bounces back, and Winfield plays a starring role, don’t be surprised when he winds up being an impact player this season.

One of the biggest position battles to watch at Philadelphia Eagles training camp will be at the quarterback position. The starting job is off-limits. Jalen Hurts won’t have to look over his shoulder for a third straight year.

Marcus Mariota is entrenched as the backup after inking a one-year deal worth up to $8 million. Head coach Nick Sirianni trusts him to be a steadying influence and reliable emergency plan in case Hurts goes down. No, the competition will be for the third-string job where veteran Ian Book and rookie Tanner McKee are set to duke it out.

The Athletic’s Bo Wulf took a novice stab at predicting the depth chart in a recent article. In it, he gives the nod to McKee over Book, adding that the Eagles would most likely try and trade whichever quarterback loses the battle. McKee has the added advantage of being under team control thanks to his four-year rookie deal.

“McKee is 6 feet 6 and 231 pounds and has the advantage of longer cost control,” wrote Wulf. “In an ideal world, Roseman is able to trade one of the two at the end of the preseason for a draft pick.”

Tanner McKee Had ‘First-Round Potential’

Philadelphia picked Book up off waivers last summer after the New Orleans Saints released him. He was immediately added to the active roster but never saw game action. McKee, a sixth-round pick out of Stanford, enters camp as a developmental project with a high ceiling.

McKee had “first-round potential” to start the 2022 season, then fell off everyone’s radar following a lackluster 2022 campaign. He could be a diamond in the rough. Here is a scouting report on McKee, via NFL Media’s Lance Zierlein:

Long, tall pocket passer with better arm strength than arm talent as a passer. McKee throws with an unorthodox delivery that becomes even more irregular when he feels rushed. He can make all the NFL throws and delivers a tight spiral with good velocity on intermediate and deep throws to the field side.

However, his heavy feet and a lack of agility limit his effectiveness outside of the pocket and make him a magnet for pass rushers when protection becomes spotty. McKee clearly improved his throwing process in 2022, but he might lack the decision-making and functional mobility to make it in today’s NFL.

Nick Sirianni Provides Scouting Report

Head coach Nick Sirianni was quick to hype up McKee’s intangibles on draft day. While he lacks the mobility of the other three quarterbacks on the roster, including Book who racked up 1,517 rushing yards and 17 rushing touchdowns at Notre Dame, McKee can stand in the pocket and sling it. He knows how to run a pro-style offense.

“Obviously through the process of talking to him, intelligent, really knows his offense and made good, quick decisions with the football,” Sirianni told reporters on April 29. “So, we think he’s a great decision-maker, has a big arm, and we think he’s accurate.

“The things you look at with a quarterback, the first couple things that ever come to your mind when evaluating a quarterback are those three things I said and then ability to extend plays. He definitely has those first three things, and we’re excited to work with him. No indication of anything with the room. We’re excited to work with the entire room.”

Carson Wentz has been labeled soft in previous stops, so perhaps a run cycle through the Gruden Grinder will toughen him up. The one-time franchise quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles has been “throwing and studying film” with Jon Gruden, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

That’s right. The same Jon Gruden who stepped down as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders following reports that he sent “homophobic and misogynistic emails” (via the New York Times) to a former NFL executive over a 10-year period. He wasn’t the subject of the investigation, instead Gruden got caught in the crossfire of a league-wide probe into the state of the Washington Commanders franchise.

Back to Wentz. The 30-year-old quarterback remains a free agent after Washington released him in February. Wentz “wants and intends to play” this season, according to Schefter, as he waits for the “right situation.” Several NFC rivals have been rumored to be in the mix for his services, including the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers, but no one has put pen to paper.

Wentz went 2-5 as the starter in Washington last season while throwing for 1,755 yards with 11 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. He was benched twice in 2022: first for veteran Taylor Heinicke, then for rookie Sam Howell.

Wentz ‘Received Interest’ From Teams in March: Report

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported back in March that Wentz had “received interest” from teams but the quarterback wanted to wait longer into the offseason before making a decision. He was open to being either a starter or a backup, per Fowler.

The latter seems to be his only option after failed experiments with three different franchises. More alarmingly, there were reports criticizing Wentz for being a bad teammate and unwilling leader at each stop.

Wentz has never thrown anyone under the bus publicly, making sure to leave on cordial terms despite the rumors. He shared a graceful farewell message on Instagram after Washington cut him loose in February.

He wrote: “Hasn’t gone quite the way I envisioned, but I’m trusting God along the way and am driven to keep going and striving to be the best I can be while glorifying God in the process! Excited for wherever God plants us next.”

Eagles Forever Thankful for Super Bowl Run

Things may have gotten a tad messy at the end, but the Eagles’ organization doesn’t win Super Bowl LII without Carson Wentz’s 2017 MVP campaign. Let’s not forget that fact. Team owner Jeffrey Lurie went out of his way to show his appreciation for Wentz after the Eagles traded him to Indianapolis in 2021.

“Carson, when we drafted Carson in 2016, we dreamed of a moment where he’d play like an MVP and help us win a championship. He did both those things,” Lurie told reporters. “Very appreciative of his contributions to us. Obviously with the trade we made, we felt like it was in the best interest of both parties. We wish him and his family the best in Indianapolis.”

General manager Howie Roseman added: “It’s a win-win trade: for them with the player they’re getting, and for us, the opportunity to not only get the picks but really to reset us going forward from a cap perspective.”

The Philadelphia Eagles were yards away from adding Derrick Henry to the roster. That is the explanation being given for the viral trade rumor that never came to fruition. Someone fumbled the ball.

Henry, a two-time NFL rushing champion, appeared to be “headed” to the Eagles prior to the NFL draft. Akbar Gbajabiamila cited a “very, very credible source” as he tapped his Twitter fingers on April 22 and virtually sent Henry to the Eagles. Then, the trade never happened. Henry stayed in Tennessee. Philadelphia made a move for D’Andre Swift.

Two months later, the American Ninja Warrior star appeared on The Rich Eisen Show to explain exactly how everything went down. Gbajabiamila was open and honest, offering that his reporting was accurate. He believes he “blew up the scene.”

“I had a very, very credible source and I do believe that I actually messed up this trade because it wasn’t supposed to come out,” Gbajabiamila told Eisen. “And I didn’t realize that, A, anybody would be paying attention, and B, I didn’t think that I wasn’t supposed to say it. So, I just said, ‘Hey, let me go ahead, you know what, I wasn’t trying to compete with Ian Rapoport and all the other guys.

“Let me tell you something, Howie Roseman could have made it happen. We saw what he did with Jalen Hurts. He made that work. You saw what he did with A.J. Brown. He made that work. This could have happened but I think because I got ahead of it and it just blew up. I blew up the scene.”

D’Andre Swift ‘Blessed with an Opportunity’

The Eagles secured D’Andre Swift for pennies on the dollar in a draft-day trade, giving up what amounted to a fourth-round pick in 2025. The 24-year-old has a clear path to be the Eagles’ starting tailback assuming he holds off a stiff challenge from Rashaad Penny.

“Man, we have a really deep room there,” head coach Nick Sirianni said. “You’re excited about the competition that we’re going to have there. Backs get a little bit more chance to shine when the pads come on.”

Swift, a Philly native, will be the favorite to win the job at training camp. He wasn’t expecting a trade to the team he grew up rooting for but he’s happy to be home.

“A lot of emotions,” Swift told Ashlyn Sullivan. “I mean there’s still a lot of emotions right now but just blessed with an opportunity to come back and be a part of something good.”

Derrick Henry Seems Happy in Tennessee

Despite a storm of offseason trade rumors around Derrick Henry, the three-time Pro Bowler is keeping his head down and going to work. He has re-committed himself to playing for the Titans, including a concerted effort to build a relationship with new general manager Ran Carthon.

“Talking to him, meeting him in person. I’ve put a face with the name,” Henry told ESPN’s Turron Davenport. “Just doing all of those things. When we get to football, we’re not worried about that other stuff.”

A notable Philadelphia Eagles free agent signing could be in danger of being cut, according to one analyst.

As suggested by Delaware News Journal’s Martin Frank, Eagles running back Rashaad Penny could be a cut candidate due to Philadelphia’s bloated running back depth chart. Frank proposes that if running back Trey Sermon makes the 53-man roster, that could make Penny — a free agent signing — the odd man out.

“If Sermon makes the roster, it most likely means that either Scott or Penny won’t,” writes Frank. “Penny hasn’t played more than 10 games in a season since his rookie year in 2017, and he played in only five games for Seattle last season after breaking his leg.”

Why Rashaad Penny Could Be Expendable

Penny was a notable signing by the Eagles back in March. In fact, prior to the draft day trade acquisition of former Detroit Lions running back D’Andre Swift, Penny was the projected starter at running back for Philadelphia.

However, Swift now projects to be that guy, which makes Penny’s role questionable. While the Eagles could always go with a running back by committee approach with Swift and Penny, Philadelphia also has other running backs returning — Sermon, Boston Scott and Kenneth Gainwell — that could end up making Penny expendable.

It’s worth noting that Penny’s one-year deal is of little cost to the Eagles. In fact, he’s signed under a one-year, $1.35 million contact. However, he could be cut with a dead money cap figure of $600,00. In other words, while Penny is the most high-profile running back on the roster not named Swift, his roster spot is far from guaranteed.

As Frank notes, Penny has had issues staying healthy. It’s a major reason why the Seattle Seahawks allowed him to walk in free agency, opting to move forward with second-year starter Kenneth Walker III. When healthy, Penny is statistically the most efficient running back in the league, averaging 5.7 yards per carry for his career. If Penny had enough carries to qualify for the career leaderboard, he would lead running backs in the all-time category for yards per carry.

However, he’s coming off of a broken fibula injury that limited him to just five games last season. Furthermore, he’s failed to play more than 10 games in a single season over the past four years.

Eagles’ Running Back Depth Chart May Push Rashaad Penny Out

As Frank mentions, one of the Eagles’ returning running backs — Gainwell — played a prominent role in the postseason last year. In fact, Gainwell was statistically more productive than former Philadelphia starting running back Miles Sanders in the playoffs. Gainwell carried the ball 33 times for 181 yards and one touchdown while Sanders carried the ball 35 times for 148 yards and two touchdowns.

“Gainwell was the Eagles’ fifth-round pick in 2021, who saw his workload, both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield, increase late last season and throughout the playoffs,” writes Frank.

If Sermon — who appeared in just two games with the Eagles last season — manages to make the roster, it’s highly unlikely Philadelphia keeps Penny around as a fifth running back.

Arizona Cardinals star Budda Baker wasn’t on the practice field when mandatory minicamp started up on June 13. True to his word, the All-Pro safety was in the building as he waits for the organization to meet his demand for a lucrative contract extension. Time will tell what happens.

Head coach Jonathan Gannon told reporters that Baker was “working through some things” that were business-related. Remember, Baker informed the Cardinals in February that he wanted to be traded after negotiations stalled. Then, after skipping voluntary workouts in late May, Baker promised he would show up with a “smile on his face” for mandatory minicamp and training camp. Technically, yes, Baker is there.

“It was good to have him in the building today. He had a smile on his face,” Gannon told reporters, via Arizona Sports. “He’s not on the field — he’s working through some things. I’ve had really good conversations with him, the dialogue has been great and I’m ready to get No. 3 back out there.”

NFL Network Analyst Offers Context on Contract

Gannon has been known to bend the truth at times so (maybe?) don’t take him at his word. It’s entirely plausible that the two had a good conversation and the contract situation will work itself out before training camp. Or, as NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport put out there, Baker could be just saying and doing all the right things to avoid racking up fines.

The Cardinals could collect $98,000 if the Pro Bowler boycotted all three days of the mandatory minicamp. Rapoport provided perspective:

“I don’t know if he’s going to be on the field or not, I just think the fact that he’s there in the building prevents him from getting fined,” Rapoport said. “Basically, what Budda Baker is doing is what we’ve seen players across the league do today; if you are not that thrilled with your current situation, and I would put Budda Baker in that category considering he has requested a trade, really going back several months, from the Arizona Cardinals. Even though he is a locker room leader and one of their best players, he made clear his dissatisfaction based on the trade request. He’s not going to get fined. He is there. That is what we know now. We’ll see where it goes from here.”

Eagles Remain Heavily Linked to Budda Baker

The Eagles are still considered the top trade destination for Budda Baker. He has been blatantly lobbying to get to Philadelphia dating back to his April comments about Nick Sirianni. The five-time Pro Bowler has also been linked to the Eagles in several different trade scenarios, from wishful proposals without sources to plugged-in reports with credibility. There is too much smoke billowing around Baker not to think the Eagles aren’t at least checking in.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler was one of the first to put Baker in a midnight green jersey. This is what he said on SportsCenter (via Sportsnaut): “People I’ve talked to around the league are at least looking to Philadelphia because they have a need at safety with C.J. Gardner-Johnson leaving in free agency, but my understanding is they don’t have a lot of money to spend because they signed other players, so it could be tough.”

The Carolina Panthers are holding a mandatory minicamp and certain players were invited in for tryouts. One of the guys looking to make the team is former Philadelphia Eagles receiver Jordan Matthews.

No one expected that random trip down memory lane, right? Matthews, who will turn 31 on July 16, is attempting to earn a spot on the roster as a tight end after starting the positional transition from receiver in 2021. The former Vanderbilt standout has previously participated in Tight End University while working out at HUB Football Camp.

Matthews remains serious about making a comeback after a two-year hiatus from the NFL. And he’ll see a familiar face in Carolina where Frank Reich — his old offensive coordinator in Philadelphia — is the new head coach.

“The phone lines weren’t ringing at wide receiver,” Matthews told ESPN’s Turron Davenport in 2021. “So it’s like if you can’t give me a way there, I’ve got to make a way.”

Matthews enjoyed his most successful seasons wearing midnight green, including a breakout 2015 campaign when he nearly eclipsed 1,000 yards. He led the Eagles in receptions (85), receiving yards (997), and receiving touchdowns (8) that year while catching passes from Sam Bradford and Mark Sanchez. In 2016, Matthews quickly emerged as a favorite target of Carson Wentz — 73 catches for 804 yards and 3 touchdowns on a whopping 117 targets — before the team “blindsided” him with a trade to Buffalo.

The Alabama native was very close with Wentz and helped walk the one-time franchise quarterback down the wedding aisle. Matthews returned to Philly in 2019 for a second tour of duty, but never achieved the same amount of success. He left town with 249 receptions for 3,006 yards and 21 scores in parts of 5 seasons (62 games, 39 starts). The Eagles drafted him 42nd overall in 2014.

Around the NFL: Chris Jones Skips Chiefs Minicamp

Several teams are holding mandatory minicamps this week which means contract issues are coming up. For example, Pro Bowl defensive end Chris Jones decided to skip Chiefs practice (via ESPN’s Adam Schefter) as talks on a contract extension loom. Jones is entering the final year of the 4-year, $80 million deal he inked in 2020.

Meanwhile, Stefon Diggs remains absent from Bills camp despite reports he is in Buffalo and underwent a physical. Quarterback Josh Allen voiced support for his top receiver (via CBS Sports), adding that the matter isn’t “football-related” and he has the star’s back “no matter what.”

One more note: Yannick Ngakoue has hired super-agent Drew Rosenhaus to represent him. The former Colts pass-rusher remains unsigned in free agency and hopes to join a new team ahead of training camp. Remember, the Eagles were heavily linked to signing Ngakoue back in 2020.

Eagles Single-Game Tickets Sell Out

Not surprisingly, single-game tickets for all 10 Eagles home games sold out in minutes on June 13. The team opens the regular season at Lincoln Financial Field on September 14 at 8:15 p.m. against the Minnesota Vikings. Philadelphia kicks off the 2023 campaign on the road versus New England on September 10 at 4:25 p.m.

They will host the Cleveland Browns in the preseason home opener on August 17 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are still available for that one, as well as for the Eagles’ open training camp practice (click here to buy) on August 6 at 7 p.m.

The Philadelphia Eagles suddenly have a heated competition at the weakside linebacker spot. Christian Elliss was the surprise standout at two of the OTA practices open to the working media. He consistently made plays on the ball, including two interceptions (one of them off Jalen Hurts) and a pass breakup.

The 24-year-old has been a perennial practice squad player during his first two seasons in midnight green. Elliss earned the trust of the coaching staff thanks to his great hustle on special teams. Outside of that, he wasn’t expected to do much in 2023 let alone compete for a starting job. That has all changed.

Geoff Mosher of Inside the Birds said he’s hearing that Elliss has an “opportunity” to unseat Nicholas Morrow — the leading tackler for the Chicago Bears in 2022 — for the starting spot alongside Nakobe Dean. He’ll have to turn heads all summer to jump up the depth chart, but don’t count him out. Elliss is slowly gathering steam as this year’s Reed Blankenship.

“The way it was put to me was Elliss has an opportunity,” Mosher said. “Morrow obviously got the first set of first-team reps alongside Nakobe Dean for a reason, but Christian Elliss made plays, and I think if that continues … do I think he can overtake Nic Morrow to start alongside Nakobe Dean? Yes, I think he can, based on how I’m hearing it. But do I think it’s going to happen? Or is it predetermined, or predestined? No. No, I would not say that at all.”

Elliss, who grew up in a famed football family, certainly has the right attitude and pedigree. The only thing he lacks is experience: 29 defensive snaps in 7 games, with an additional 133 special-teams snaps. He has 14 career tackles.

However, the undrafted kid out of Idaho has one noticeable advantage over the competition. He has a much bigger frame (6-foot-3, 231 pounds), compared to Morrow (6-foot, 216 pounds), and knows how to jam his body into tight windows. CBS Sports’ Jeff Kerr recorded how Elliss was able to sniff out an interception on Jalen Hurts on June 8:

Elliss — coming off an interception in last week’s open practice — picked off Jalen Hurts during the middle of 7-on-7s. Hurts was looking for Jack Stoll before Elliss jumped the route and took the ball the other way for a score. Earlier in the session, Elliss broke up a pass intended for Stoll when he was facing the first-team offense.

Nakobe Dean Predicted to ‘Explode into Stardom’

Second-year linebacker Nakobe Dean appears to have the starting middle linebacker spot locked up. He was wearing the green dot and calling out the plays at every practice during OTAs. Barring a freak injury at camp, Dean will be the successor to T.J. Edwards.

Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay believes the former Georgia standout is set to Explode into Stardom in 2023: “Based on his unanimous All-American campaign for the national championship-winning Bulldogs two years ago, there should be little doubts about the 5’11”, 231-pound linebackers ability to thrive in the pros.”