Eagles Observations: Which players increased or decreased their odds of making the 53-man roster?

After two entertaining games as far as preseason goes, almost every Eagles’ starter was in street clothes during Saturday’s game. The play on the field was largely unwatchable, but a handful of players were still fighting for their opportunity to be a member of the 2024 Philadelphia Eagles. For those who do not make the team after cuts at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, this game could be the last time they play a football game. 

Though the play on the field was bad, there were still a lot of observations to take away from Saturday’s preseason matchup. 

Eagles’ offense

Kenny Pickett has been the undisputed QB2, at least in the Eagles’ eyes, and started their last preseason game. He only made 4 throws, with 2 completions for 26 yards. One of his passes was dropped. 

Parris Campbell made 2 catches on 2 targets good for 34 yards. He opined after the game “at the end of the day, you have to earn your keep.” We will all find out on Tuesday if he did. 

Ainias Smith had a good day—he hauled in 6 grabs for 36 yards. This was the most action he has had all summer. Ainias also added a nice 14-yard punt return. His resilience to fight through his injuries and early pressing in camp likely pays off with a roster spot. 

Many hoped to see Jahan Dotson play a few series, but it was not meant to be. Jahan is a former first-round pick and knows how to prepare for the season. How the Eagles work his versatility into the offense will be fascinating. 

Tyrion Davis Price should find a home on the practice squad, despite fumbling in the 1st quarter. He finished the game with 12 carries for 56 yards. 

Tyler Steen watched the game from the sidelines, his injured ankle was still wrapped up. If he starts the season on I.R. that could open the door for Brett Toth and D Kinnard to make the initial 53-man roster. 

Hopefully, Jake Elliott has gotten the misses out of his system. He nailed a 41-yard field goal in the final preseason game, the only points the Eagles scored on the day. 

The starting offense will be ready to perform in Week 1. No concerns there at all.

Eagles’ defense

Nolan Smith, dressed and played for the Eagles on Saturday. It was a curious decision considering the role he may have with the team this season, but they felt like they needed to see him get more reps. He will have to perform better to be on the field early in the season. 

Julian Okwara had a sack in the second quarter coming off the edge. He added 3 QB hits and a tackle for loss. Okwara could be a candidate for the practice squad. He was fighting for a spot on the roster, and his play on the field showed it. 

Brandon Smith continues to impress on special teams. He started the game with a nice hit on the opening kickoff. He should find a home on the practice squad. 

Edge rusher Patrick Johnson continued getting pressure while on the field. It is hard to think of a player who helped themselves make the roster more than he has this summer. 

Cooper DeJean played a lot of snaps in his first game action since November. It was nice seeing him on the field, but there was rust. There were also plays that showcased his football IQ and instincts. Cooper was blitzing in the second quarter when he recognized the play was a run and reacted to change course and tackle the ball carrier. He is going to be a fun player to watch this year.

Jeremiah Trotter Jr showed off his leadership skills by breaking down the defensive huddle with a spirited speech to lead them on the field. Trotter Sr. was in attendance watching his son make plays on the same field he did. A surreal moment for Pops.

Ben VanSumeren was flying all over the field doing everything he could to secure a roster spot. He had a vicious sack in the 3rd quarter that rocked the Vikings QB and added two tackles for loss and a QB hit on the day. He should be one of the 5 linebackers on the Eagles opening-day roster. 

Oren Burks had a nice day with 7 tackles, a sack, and a tackle for loss, but it might be too little too late for him to make the Eagle’s 53-man roster. The Eagles having depth to choose from at the LB position was not expected heading into the season.

Tristin McCollum had an interception that he returned for 35 yards called back on a Cooper DeJean penalty, but McCollum shines every week. I do not know how they plan to fit Tristin on the roster, but it would be difficult to leave him off. Playing an entire game in the pre-season finale is never a good sign that you made the team. Ala K’Von Wallace last season. 

James Bradberry was in street clothes. Since they do not feel the need to see him play again, this could be a sign that he has made the team. If they were going to release him without needing another look, it likely would have been done by now.

The pass rush is the biggest concern for the defense heading into the season — the Eagles are likely still looking to add a pass rusher.