Sights and sounds from first half of Eagles Week 1 matchup vs. Packers in Brazil

The Eagles started the first half miserable in Sao Paulo, Brazil, but thanks to a stout defense, Philadelphia only ended up down 6-0 and entered the second half down 19-17 after regrouping. Both offenses made explosive plays, and the Packers secured …

The Eagles started the first half miserable in Sao Paulo, Brazil, but thanks to a stout defense, Philadelphia only ended up down 6-0 and entered the second half down 19-17 after regrouping.

Both offenses made explosive plays, and the Packers secured two early turnovers to exit the first half up two points. Packers quarterback Jordan Love was 7-14 passing for 130 yards and one first-half touchdown.

Free agent running back Josh Jacobs had six carries for four yards, Emmanuel Wilson led Green Bay with three carries for 37 yards, and Jayden Reed led all pass catchers with two catches for 79 yards and a score. With the second half set to begin, here are takeaways from the first half.

Early pregame sights and sounds from Eagles matchup vs. Packers in Brazil

The Eagles are in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the first NFL game in the region will start in a little under an hour. Brazil, the largest country in Latin America, will host the Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers game on Friday at Arena Corinthians …

The Eagles are in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the first NFL game in the region will start in a little under an hour. Brazil, the largest country in Latin America, will host the Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers game on Friday at Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo. This will be the first NFL game held on a Friday evening since 1970.

With kickoff just moments away, here are sights and sounds from the pregame activities.

Philadelphia Eagles’ roster comparison: 2023 vs. 2024 defense

Last summer, the Eagles entered the 2023 NFL season fresh off a Super Bowl loss while maintaining one of the league’s most dominant defensive units. The Birds lost Jonathan Gannon, who accepted the Cardinals’ coaching job. Sean Desai was inserted as …

Last summer, the Eagles entered the 2023 NFL season fresh off a Super Bowl loss while maintaining one of the league’s most dominant defensive units. The Birds lost Jonathan Gannon, who accepted the Cardinals’ coaching job. Sean Desai was inserted as defensive coordinator, and the team jumped out to a 10-1 start before the wheels fell off.

Philadelphia lost six of its final seven games, including a 32-9 blowout loss to the Buccaneers in the wild-card round. Desai was fired as DC and replaced by Vic Fangio, the architect of the scheme. Bryce Huff was signed in free agency, while Haason Reddick was traded away.

With the Eagles just five days away from a much-hyped season-opening matchup against the Packers from Sao Paulo, Brazil, we’re comparing last year’s defensive unit to the 2024 version.

2023: Jalen Carter, Fletcher Cox, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Kentavius Street, Marlon Tuipulotu, Milton Williams

2024: Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Milton Williams, Moro Ojomo, Byron Young, Thomas Booker

Fletcher Cox has retired, while Byron Jones replaces the departed Marlon Tuipulotu. Thomas Booker and Moro Ojomo offer pass-rush potential.

2023: Derek Barnett, Brandon Graham, Josh Sweat, Patrick Johnson, Haason Reddick, Nolan Smith

2024: Brandon Graham, Josh Sweat, Patrick Johnson, Nolan Smith, Bryce Huff, Jalyx Hunt

Bryce Huff replaces the departed Haason Reddick. Huff is younger than Reddick, and he’s an emerging pass rusher. Jalyx Hunt is an athletic marvel off the edge. Nolan Smith’s progression will be the most scrutinized.

2023: Zach Cunningham, Nakobe Dean, Christian Elliss

2024: Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Ben VanSumeren, Devin White, Oren Burks

Thanks to another standout training camp, Ben VanSumeren made the Eagles’ 53-man roster, outplaying Oren Burks and others. Devin White offers a Pro Bowl-caliber linebacker.

2023: James Bradberry, Mario Goodrich, Josh Jobe, Avonte Maddox, Eli Ricks. Kelee Ringo, Darius Slay

2024: Cooper DeJean, Quinyon Mitchell, Eli Ricks, Kelee Ringo, Isaiah Rodgers, Darius Slay

After a disappointing finish to 2023, Howie Roseman selected cornerbacks with the first two picks in the 2024 NFL draft. Avonte Maddox is now a safety, along with James Bradberry, while Josh Jobe is with the Seahawks practice squad.

2023: Reed Blankenship, Sydney Brown, Terrell Edmunds, Justin Evans

2024: Reed Blankenship, James Bradberry, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Avonte Maddox, Tristin McCollum

Sydney Brown is on the PUP list and will be a factor in 2024. Reed Blankenship has developed into a solid NFL safety, while C.J. Gardner-Johnson returns the swagger to the Eagles lineup. Tristin McCollum has developed into a solid rotational piece.

Every move the Eagles made during 53-man roster cuts

We’re tracking every move the Philadelphia Eagles made to trim down from 90 players to an official 53-man roster

Philadelphia has a loaded and dynamic roster ripe with dual-threat players on both sides of the football and two of the top coordinators in the game. After five weeks of intense Training Camp and three preseason games, the Birds officially trimmed their roster to 53 players on Tuesday, unveiling the 2024 Eagles to the world and fans alike.

On Monday, the Eagles announced their first wave of roster cuts, releasing four veteran players who are not subject to the waiver wire and can immediately sign with other teams.

With the roster taking shape, here are the moves Philadelphia made to get down to 53 players.

Monday

Ahead of Tuesday’s deadline, the franchise announced four moves, releasing Will Grier, Parry Nickerson, Julian Okwara, and Max Scharping.

Tuesday

RELEASED
(*These players are veterans who are not subject to waivers and can sign immediately with another team.)

LB Oren Burks
WR Parris Campbell
OL Nick Gates
G/C Matt Hennessy
WR John Ross
T/G Brett Toth

WAIVED

T/G Gottlieb Ayedze
T Anim Dankwah
RB Tyrion Davis-Price
TE Kevin Foelsch
DT Gabe Hall
WR Jacob Harris (Injured)
WR Griffin Hebert
DE Tarron Jackson
TE E.J. Jenkins
CB Josh Jobe
OLB Terrell Lewis
C Dylan McMahon
CB Zech McPhearson
RB Kendall Milton
DT P.J. Mustipher
WR Joseph Ngata (Injured)
RB Lew Nichols
G/C Jason Poe
TE Armani Rogers
S Andre Sam
LB Brandon Smith
CB Shon Stephens
S Caden Sterns (Non-Football Injury)
T Laekin Vakalahi
WR Austin Watkins

PLACED ON INJURED RESERVE and DESIGNATED FOR RETURN

TE Albert Okwuegbunam
WR Ainias Smith

PLACED ON THE RESERVE/PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO PERFORM LIST

S Sydney Brown

Eagles vs. Vikings: Top photos from preseason finale at Lincoln Financial Field

We’re looking at the top photos from the Philadelphia Eagles preseason finale against the Minnesota Vikings at Lincoln Financial Field

The Eagles finished the preseason 2-1. They now aim to trim the roster to 53 players and prepare for a gigantic season-opening matchup against the Green Bay Packers in Brazil. Vikings quarterback Jaren Hall was 17-25 passing for 189 yards and two touchdowns on the afternoon, while Tanner McKee was 13-21 passing for 115 yards and one interception. Lucky Jackson led Minnesota with four catches for 53 yards, while Griffin Hebert led Philadelphia with three for 48 yards in the afternoon. On defense, Tristin McCollum made a late push for a roster spot, recording nine tackles and one pass defended on the afternoon. Oren Burks made his own statement, logging seven tackles, one sack, one pass defended, one tackle for loss, and one QB hit. With the team off until Monday, here’s an instant analysis of the preseason finale. ***

Former Georgia Bulldog linebacker Nakobe Dean shining in the preseason

Former Georgia Bulldog linebacker and third-round pick has been outstanding in the NFL preseason.

When the Philadelphia Eagles drafted Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Nakobe Dean selected in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft, they saw massive potential in him. However, injuries and setbacks have prevented him from showing that potential on the field so far. If the 2024 preseason is any indication, then Eagles fans and UGA fans could see that potential shine through this season.

Dean has been sensational for the Eagles so far. Over the course of two preseason games, he’s earned a PFF grade of 91.6, the highest preseason grade of any Philadelphia Eagle. He leads the Eagles with seven tackles, too. Under new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, he’s shined in his audition tape to become one of the Eagles’ starting inside linebackers.

He’s not only shown tremendous improvement this preseason and he’s playing with tremendous confidence as well. When asked about his recovery process from a Lisfranc injury last year that took him out for 12 games, he said, “I’m not back. I’m better. I feel like I’ve been better than in my first two years. The injury, working helped me get back to myself physically, and it made me mentally stronger, spiritually stronger, and has kind of helped lock me in.”

He’s looked more confident on the field as well, and UGA fans should be excited to see a former Bulldog potentially be an impact starter for a very good Eagles team that features numerous former Dawgs.

Updated Eagles’ 53-man roster projection ahead of preseason matchup vs. Patriots

Philadelphia is back at the NovaCare Complex for Week 3 of training camp and is starting to prepare for a joint practice and the second preseason matchup of the summer against New England. The Patriots hosted the Eagles for a joint practice session …

Philadelphia is back at the NovaCare Complex for Week 3 of training camp and is starting to prepare for a joint practice and the second preseason matchup of the summer against New England.

The Patriots hosted the Eagles for a joint practice session on Tuesday, August 13, before their preseason game on Thursday, August 15. Practice will begin at 10:30 AM, and gates will open to fans at 9:30 AM.

Philadelphia has increased the intensity of practice season after the 2023 collapse, and Thursday night’s matchup offers another chance to clarify several high-profile roster battles. Players on the bubble will look to create separation, and we will be watching to see which starters, if any, will play in the first quarter after an intense Tuesday session.

With the Eagles having defeated the Ravens and made three roster moves since last week, we’re unveiling the fourth 53-man roster prediction ahead of cutdown day and the regular season opener.

Hurts will look to reduce the turnovers under first-year OC Kellen Moore.

After being traded to the Eagles, the former Steelers first-round pick has been solid in training camp, but he’ll have to defeat Tanner McKee to maintain the backup job.

McKee would have to fall off the cliff to lose a roster spot to Will Grier, and he could rise up to the backup quarterback spot.

The former Penn State star has yet to play in the preseason.

Gainwell will enter Year 4 looking to lock down the backup running back spot.

The rookie is a jack of all trades and made his mark during his debut against the Ravens.

Smith is firmly entrenched as a ‘Batman’ after signing his 3-year, $75 million contract extension.

A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Johnny Wilson should be locked to make the final roster. Covey makes the roster over John Ross, and he’s still the best punt returner on the roster.

You can’t teach size, and Wilson makes the cut as the Eagles work to utilize his unique skill set.

Goedert will look to record his first 1,000-yard season.

Calcaterra is a capable pass catcher, and provides special teams depth.

Okwuegbunam Jr. had no role under former offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, and he’s done nothing to separate himself, opening things up for E.J. Jenkins as the third tight end. Armani Rogers is another player to watch.

Mailata signed a 3-year, $66 million contract extension and is one of the best left tackles in the NFL.

Dickerson signed a new 4-year, $98 million deal and is the best left guard and highest paid in the NFL.

Entering his third season, Jurgens will face enormous pressure after Jason Kelce announces his retirement.

Steen is under pressure, and it looks like Mekhi Becton will unseat him.

The All-Pro will play his first season without Jason Kelce and be called upon to anchor a retooled offensive line.

The big ticket offers potential, and he could earn the starting right guard spot.

Johnson is Mailata’s primary backup and can play both offensive tackle positions.

Matt Hennessy has done nothing to stand out over the first three weeks.

The rookie offensive guard will compete with Tyler Steen for the right guard spot and bring toughness to the roster.

The rookie from North Carolina State has outplayed Matt Hennessy.

Huff was essentially swapped for Haason Reddick, and he’ll be counted on to produce more than a situational ten sacks.

Sweat will play in the final year of his deal, and he’ll look to secure double-digit sacks.

Smith will see an uptick in snaps and should carve out a rotational pass-rusher role.

Graham will play his final season in Philadelphia before retiring.

The rookie linebacker will make the roster and will land a role as a situational pass rusher.

The pass rusher has always been stout on special teams, and his strip-sack in the preseason opener did not sway opinion.

The runner-up for the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, Carter will see his snaps and accountability increase as Fletcher Cox retires.

Like Jalen Carter, the expectations will rise for the 3rd year defensive tackle.

Williams is entering the final year of his deal and could have a breakout season at defensive tackle.

The 2023 seventh-round pick will look to carve out a role alongside a stout defensive line.

Dean enters a critical third year and competes with multiple players, including rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

The former Buccaneers linebacker could transform the Eagles’ defense if he can regain his 2020-2021 form.

Baun is already a favorite of DC Vic Fangio and could carve out a role in multiple positions.

Trotter Jr. will enter his rookie system with the perfect support system, and he flashed during the preseason opener.

The second-year linebacker has been consistent this summer. He’s a special teams standout who makes the roster ahead of Oren Burks.

Slay returns as the Eagles top cornerback, but at 33, he could be set for his final chance at winning a Super Bowl.

The rookie has been as good as advertised and should start at cornerback opposite Darius Slay.

The rookie from Iowa is listed as a cornerback and is dealing with a hamstring injury, but he’ll see snaps at every position. He could allow Philadelphia to carry one less safety and move on from Avonte Maddox.

Rodgers has returned to the gridiron after serving a one-year suspension and will compete for a role as cornerback and as the primary kick return specialist.

Ringo appears to be the more impactful player than Eli Ricks and will land a roster spot after impressive rookie development. He’ll battle Quinyon Mitchell for the starting cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay.

Special teams play is essential, and Jobe is one of the best gunners in the NFL.

Blankenship signed a two-year extension, and he’s developed into one of the top young safeties In the NFL.

Gardner-Johnson returns to Philadelphia after spending one season in Detroit, and he’ll bring swagger and big-play potential to Vic Fangio’s secondary.

Brown will start the season on the PUP list while rehabbing his torn ACL.

After not having Bradberry on our initial 53-man roster predictions, the Eagles’ newest safety could make the roster if he’s not traded in late summer. Sydney Brown starting camp on the PUP list could bode well for Bradberry’s future in Philadelphia.

The veteran cornerback can play in the slot and he can play safety, ensuring his role on the roster.

The All-Pro signed a four-year contract extension.

Top photos from the Eagles 16-13 win over Ravens in preseason opener

We’re looking at the top 100 photos from the Philadelphia Eagles 16-13 win over the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on Friday night

The Eagles returned to live game action for the first time since their embarrassing 32-9 defeat to the Buccaneers in the NFC wild-card game.

Philadelphia traveled to Baltimore to face the Ravens in a preview of their Week 13 matchup, which looms later in the regular season. Both teams held out the majority of the starters, allowing key rookies and veterans on the bubble to shine and create separation in roster battles.

Eagles All-Pro kicker Jake Elliott made a 49-yard field goal with no time remaining to give Philadelphia a 16-13 victory on Friday night. Elliott missed an extra point off the left upright in the first quarter, and his 50-yard kick hit the right upright with 16 seconds remaining in the game.

With Philadelphia set to start preparation for the Patriots on Thursday night, here are the top 100 photos from the big win.

***

Takeaways and observations from first half of Eagles’ preseason opener vs. the Ravens

The NFL is back, and Philadelphia officially started its march toward another postseason berth with a much anticipated preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. Kenny Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown, and the Eagles are tied 6-6 …

The NFL is back, and Philadelphia officially started its march toward another postseason berth with a much anticipated preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. Kenny Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown, and the Eagles are tied 6-6 with the Ravens to end the first half at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

Both teams held out key starters, but Philadelphia defensive coordinator Vic Fangio ensured key players saw snaps in the first half. Most of the offensive and defensive starters sat out for the Ravens, allowing second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson to shine.

On offense, Josh Johnson was 4-12 passing for 60 yards, while Owen Wright led the Baltimore rushing attack with seven carries for 33 yards.

With the second half set to begin, here are takeaways and observations from the first half in Baltimore.

Trotter is instinctual and has the benefit of sharing dinner and breakfast with one of the greatest linebackers in Eagles franchise history.

Nakobe Dean’s first defensive snaps came with 5:34 remaining in the second quarter. Philadelphia’s starters at linebacker were Zack Baun and Devin White. Dean had one tackle in the first half and one pass defended.

Philadelphia gave us a preview of the future with Quinyon Mitchell and Kelee Ringo getting snaps together. Isaiah Rodgers got snaps on the outside with RIngo, while Mitchell got the initial snaps in the slot. The Eagles surrendered 62 yards passing in the first half.

Wilson got the start for Philadelphia and had one catch for seven yards on two targets and a crucial block on the Will Shipley touchdown.

Mekhi Becton gets the start at right guard, while the rest of the Eagles starting offensive line didn’t dress.

Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown in the first half, and solidified his status as the backup.

The Eagles’ top offensive starters, including Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata, were not uniform.

Nakobe Dean said he’s ready to earn starting linebacker job and welcomes competition

Philadelphia Eagles star Nakobe Dean said he’s ready to earn starting linebacker job and welcomes competition

Nakobe Dean enters his third year looking to prove he belongs in the NFL while hoping to dispel the notion that he’s injury-prone or not equipped to be an every-down weakside linebacker.

A foot injury forced him to miss Philadelphia’s final seven games last season. Dean logged 30 tackles, including 0.5 sacks, in his five appearances in 2023 but will face competition from Devin White and 2024 fifth-round pick Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

After a recent Eagles practice, Dean openly welcomed the competition from all parties.

Dean entered last season as a Week 1 starter after playing just 34 defensive snaps as a rookie, but injuries cost him time during training camp, and he never fully recovered. Now, he’s ceding snaps to Zack Baun and will need strong preseason showings to lock down a starting spot.

[lawrence-auto-related count=5]