Key Takeaways from Eagles Training Camp Day 1: Campbell Shines, Ringo Struggles
The Philadelphia Eagles opened training camp Wednesday with a statement: This isn't about defending last year's Super Bowl title. As coach Nick Sirianni emphasized, this is a new season with a new team identity. Here are the key takeaways from Day 1 at the NovaCare Complex.
Roster Moves and Injury Updates
Before practice began, the Eagles placed linebacker Nakobe Dean on the PUP list as he continues recovering from the torn patella tendon suffered during last year's playoffs. Dean watched from the sidelines alongside Jalen Carter (shoulder) and Kenyon Green (knee), who were ruled out of practice. The team also signed defensive tackle Joe Evans, a 6-foot-2, 337-pound rookie free agent from Texas-San Antonio, while waiving guard Marcus Tate with an injury designation.
Jihaad Campbell's Impressive Early Return
The biggest surprise of camp came from first-round linebacker Jihaad Campbell, who wasn't expected to practice until August due to shoulder surgery recovery. Despite being listed as limited, Campbell made his presence felt immediately, breaking up a pass intended for Danny Gray during 7-on-7 drills while running with the second team. The rookie showed the athleticism that made him a first-round pick, providing an early glimpse of what he can offer the Eagles defense.
First-Team Lineup Takes Shape
In the first set of 11-on-11 drills, the Eagles' initial depth chart came into focus. Tyler Steen worked at right guard with the first team, while Jeremiah Trotter Jr. got first-team linebacker reps. In the secondary, Kelee Ringo and Sydney Brown received first-team opportunities, with rookie safety Andrew Mukuba and veteran Adoree' Jackson also rotating in. Cooper DeJean showcased his versatility with safety reps in the base defense.
A.J. Brown's Statement Performance
A.J. Brown made the day's most spectacular play, hauling in a 20-yard jump ball from Jalen Hurts that captivated the crowd. After practice, Brown didn't shy away from bold proclamations: "I think I'm the best in the league, and I want to put my stamp on it." The All-Pro receiver appears primed to back up those words, particularly after beating Ringo on a deep route during team drills.
Quinyon Mitchell vs. A.J. Brown
Second-year cornerback Quinyon Mitchell showed why he's already considered a cornerstone piece, delivering tight coverage on Brown in the end zone that resulted in a pass interference flag. However, Brown praised Mitchell's performance, saying the young cornerback got the better of him on that particular play. Mitchell also recorded a pass breakup later in practice, displaying the form that made him an immediate starter as a rookie.
Kelee Ringo's Struggles Continue
While positioned for first-team reps at outside cornerback, Kelee Ringo endured a challenging first practice. The 2023 fourth-round pick was beaten twice by Terrace Marshall Jr. on deep routes and once on a crossing pattern, audibly expressing frustration after the final completion. With an 11-deep cornerback room demanding versatility and competition, Ringo's early struggles raise questions about the CB2 battle opposite Mitchell.
Saquon Barkley's Strategic Usage
Coming off a 2,500-yard season and reigning Offensive Player of the Year honors, Saquon Barkley showed no signs of being handled with kid gloves. Offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo had the star running back lined up wide in various formations and heavily involved in 7-on-7 work. Barkley even took carries during hurry-up drills late in practice, suggesting the Eagles plan to keep him involved while managing his workload strategically.
Jalen Hurts Sharp in Command
Jalen Hurts looked crisp throughout the 75-minute session, with passes rarely hitting the ground. The Super Bowl-winning quarterback also showcased his mobility with a couple of designed scrambles, demonstrating the dual-threat capability that makes the Eagles offense so dangerous.
Punt Return Competition Opens Up
While the Eagles signed Avery Williams specifically for return duties, he was noticeably absent from punt return drills due to an undisclosed injury. Instead, undrafted rookie Taylor Morin took most opportunities. The Wake Forest product brings impressive credentials, finishing as the school's all-time leading receiver and ranking second nationally in punt return average last season (17.0 yards per return).
With 15 days until their first preseason game against Dallas, the Eagles are establishing early storylines that will define their camp. The cornerback position battle promises to be particularly fierce, with 11 players competing for spots in a secondary that demands both competition and versatility. As defensive coordinator Vic Fangio emphasized, the best players will earn their roles through training camp performance.
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Dave Spadaro
