“Unveiling the Potential Stepping Stones: Analyzing the Top 7 Position Battles in the Upcoming Clash with the Browns”

Position Battles to Watch: Eagles vs. Browns

By

August 17, 2023

Introduction

The Philadelphia Eagles are heading into their second preseason game against the Cleveland Browns with plenty at stake. With only two weeks remaining before the roster is reduced from 90 players to 53, position battles and roster spots are up for grabs. As the Eagles look to solidify their lineup, there are several key areas to watch. Here, we break down seven positions that will be closely contested.

1. The Running Back Work

Head Coach Nick Sirianni has been rotating running backs in the preseason games to evaluate the group’s performance. D’Andre Swift, Rashaad Penny, Trey Sermon, and Kennedy Brooks saw action in the first preseason game, while Kenneth Gainwell and Boston Scott were rested. In the upcoming game against the Browns, Sirianni may give Gainwell and Scott some playing time to ensure they are ready for the regular season. The number of running backs the Eagles will keep on the roster remains uncertain, but history suggests that four is the average.

2. Sorting It Out Among The Pass Catchers

The Eagles have a talented group of pass catchers, including stars A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. However, there are other receivers vying for roster spots. Quez Watkins, despite a hamstring injury, has had a standout summer, and Olamide Zaccheaus has impressed with his blocking and receiving. Tyrie Cleveland and Greg Ward have also shown promise. Devon Allen, Jadon Haselwood, Johnny King, and Joseph Ngata are looking to make an impact and secure their places on the roster.

3. More Reps For The QB Room

Jalen Hurts has been impressive in the preseason, but it remains unclear if he will play in the upcoming game against the Browns. This could give backup quarterbacks Marcus Mariota, Ian Book, and Tanner McKee opportunities to showcase their talent against a strong Cleveland defense. The more reps they get, the better their chances of making their case for a spot on the final roster.

4. Who Wins Jobs Along The O-Line?

The Eagles have a formidable offensive line and competition for backup spots is fierce. With the starters likely to rest after two physical days of joint practices with the Browns, it’s an opportunity for the other offensive linemen to shine. Jordan Mailata, Landon Dickerson, Jason Kelce, Cam Jurgens, and Lane Johnson will all likely sit out, giving fringe players a chance to make their mark.

5. Making Sense At Linebacker

Linebacker Nakobe Dean, who has practiced well against the Browns, could see his first preseason action. The Eagles have a mix of rookies and veterans competing for linebacker positions. Veterans Nicholas Morrow, Myles Jack, and Zach Cunningham are still adjusting to the system, while rookies Nolan Smith and Christian Elliss are eager to continue their strong performances from training camp.

6. Young Corners Making Their Move

The Eagles have a wealth of young talent at cornerback, and several players are poised to make their mark. Josh Jobe has been impressive throughout training camp, ending a recent joint practice with Cleveland by intercepting a pass. Fourth-round draft pick Kelee Ringo is also making strides in his development. The competition for cornerback spots will be fierce, with former Brown Greedy Williams among those looking to secure a place on the roster.

7. Rotation Continues At Safety

The Eagles have been rotating several players at safety, giving each a chance to gain first-team reps. Reed Blankenship has stood out with three interceptions in practice against Cleveland quarterback Deshaun Watson. K’Von Wallace, Terrell Edmunds, Justin Evans, and rookie Sydney Brown have all made strong cases for roster spots. The coaching staff and General Manager Howie Roseman face difficult decisions as they evaluate the performance of these players.

Editorial and Advice

The preseason is a crucial time for teams to evaluate talent and determine the final makeup of their roster. These position battles provide opportunities for players to showcase their skills and prove their worth. The decisions made during these preseason games will shape the team’s destiny for the upcoming regular season.

Coaches must strike a delicate balance between giving veterans enough rest and providing adequate playing time for those competing for roster spots. The joint practices with the Browns have undoubtedly helped the Eagles gauge their team’s strengths and weaknesses. The coaching staff, led by Nick Sirianni, will need to carefully evaluate the performances in these practices and preseason games to make informed decisions about the final roster.

It is important for young players to seize these opportunities and demonstrate their potential. While established stars like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have already secured their roles, lesser-known players must use these games to make their mark. Their performances against the Browns can serve as stepping stones to a successful NFL career.

For fans, watching these position battles unfold can be an exciting time. It provides a glimpse into the team’s future and generates anticipation for the regular season. The Eagles’ preseason games against the Browns will showcase the depth and talent of the roster, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.