Eagles Training Camp Notebook: Offensive line injury bug, underdogs steal the spotlight

The Philadelphia Eagles clocked in for another day of work at the NovaCare Complex this morning. As preseason draws closer, the Birds are ramping up the intensity but that can often come at a cost. Here are some key takeaways from todays’ practice.

Eagles Injury report

The Eagles held a few players out of practice today as the injury report continued to grow. Oren Burks joined Parris Campbell, Mehki Garner, and Brandon Smith on the sidelines, while a flurry of corners and two key cogs at interior guard were limited.

That matter was only complicated further when Cam Jurgens headed inside for a short while. This left Brett Toth and Matt Hennessy to split duties at center and guard, with depth being heavily tested over the last few days.

It remains to be seen whether or not the Eagles will make any interior guard additions over the coming days, but with several players battling minor setbacks, it presents a worrying foreshadowing if larger injuries were to strike deeper into the regular season. Acquiring some emergency depth certainly wouldn’t hurt.

Elsewhere, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson picked up a knock, giving James Bradberry even more looks at Safety. All of a sudden, the veteran CB’s transition up top isn’t looking as confusing. The Eagles are still without Sydney Brown and will likely benefit from an extra body even if he does struggle a little to begin with.

Linebacker lifelines

The Eagles also have an interesting battle at linebacker. Devin White is an entrenched starter, but beyond that, a lot is left to be decided. Zack Baun has reportedly been extremely impressive and should have a role secured, while it was also nice to see Nakobe Dean make a big play.

This is an important season for Dean, who has missed a lot of time through his opening two NFL campaigns, so a big step forward here would do a lot for the long-term future of the position.

Vibes

This isn’t really a key takeaway, but it’s cool to see the Eagles enjoying their Training Camp experience. Jalen Hurts, Nick Sirianni, and Big Dom all vibing it up driving across the field in a Golf Cart. What more could you ask for on a Monday morning?

Johnny Wilson’s hot Summer continues

When the Eagles drafted Johnny Wilson, not many knew how they were going to use the big-bodied wideout. Would he be a hybrid player, a TE, or a red-zone weapon? All options are still on the table and becoming likely as Wilson continues to make plays down at the NovaCare Complex.

It will be fun to see what Wilson can do during the preseason and if he can force his way into the WR rotation.

Better times ahead For Eagles DT Jordan Davis

Jordan Davis received a lot of criticism in 2023. Some was warranted, some just felt unnecessary. But after seemingly taking it all onboard, he’s looking to prove a point in 2024 in a scheme that should lend itself to his strengths. The early signs are certainly encouraging for the former first-round selection.

In a scheme where he’s tasked with plugging holes and his impact will be more visible, this could well be a breakout year for the Georgia Bulldog.

For the latest from Eagles Training Camp, stay locked in to Philly Sports Network

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports