Note: This report will include new information, everyday through the end of the NFL Draft. Check back daily to get the updates.
Round 1: WR Makai Lemon 5’11, 192 – It was weird to see the Eagles trade up from 23rd to 20th, to select a smallish slot receiver. Before anyone gets pissed that I called him that, GM Howie Roseman and Head Coach Nick Sirianni already conceded as much, during their press conference about drafting him.
So yeah, it was weird drafting a slot, especially one who runs a 4.53 Forty, and doesn’t generate much buzz about his run after the catch skills. There is talk that he can play on the outside, and is competitive for jump balls. At least he has been in college. Well that talk had better be true at the NFL level, too.
No team moves up to draft a player at #20, for him to ride pine. Clearly the Eagles expect an early contribution from Lemon. His drafting signals that the rumors are true, about WR A.J. Brownbeing traded soon. If Lemon is the direct replacement, he lacks the speed, vertical leap, tackle breaking and size (at 6’1, 226 Brown is 2 inches taller and 34 pounds heavier) of Brown.
So if the Eagles are looking for Lemon to make his living on the Go routes, Slants and Hitches that Brown did, that would be sort of unfair. Lemon might be better suited to Drags, Screens and Quick Outs, all run from the slot. Then of course that can be built on, as Sirianni suggested right at the end of the presser.
THE mission started as “repeat as champions”, and ended with “For the love of Christ, FIRE Kevin Patullo!” There were fans who weren’t even bummed about the first round playoff loss, because it meant the Eagles were going to finally shit-can the Offensive Coordinator. His ineptitude was wall to wall, and week to week. It was so bad, that when the Eagles hired the completely inexperienced Sean Mannion to replace Patullo, fans were still pumped. Now the Eagles have to prove that it was in fact him and not them. With no idea what expect from Mannion. Buckle up, and try to go a little limp. This IS the Eagles we’re talking about.
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OFFENSE:
QB Jalen Hurts pre-snap.
QB: Jalen Hurts– 16 starts, 1 rest (playoffs) (294/454 – 64.7% – 3224 – 25 – 6) / (105 – 421 – 4.0 – 8 – 8). Not helped by a (since fired) pedestrian offensive coordinator. While, his overall statistics were respectable, week to week his completion percentage could swing as much as 28 points. In 9 of his 16 starts (56%), his arm found the end-zone, just one time or less.
His two biggest assets are his rushing, and the fact that he doesn’t make many mistakes. As a result, the Eagles either win games, or keep them very close. Unfortunately, his rushing yards, carries, and scores this season, were all career lows, since he became the starter.
Tanner McKee – 1 start (24/43 – 55.8% – 274 – 1 – 1) (8 – 8 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) A third year pocket passer with plenty of upside. His only start was an chance to play his way into being a trade target for QB needy teams. He didn’t play well enough for that, and as a result, would be smart to secure a multi-year extension, as the Eagles back-up beyond 2026. (+)
RB: Last year the world spoke of Saquon Barkley (280 – 1140 – 4.0 – 7 – 1 / 50 – 37 – 273 – 7.3 – 2) as if he was washed up. Yet despite all the team’s coaching struggles, and injuries along the o-line, he was still the number 10 rusher in the NFL. Tank Bigsby (58 – 344 – 5.9 – 2 – 0 / 4 – 3 – 32 – 10.7 – 0) ran every carry as if it would be his last, providing an excellent one-two punch with Barkley.
Will Shipley(14 – 49 – 3.5 – 0 – 1 / 12 – 9 – 56 – 6.2 – 0) simply isn’t very productive with the ball in his hands. Barring injury to another player, I expect that he’ll spend a lot of time on the Practice Squad, if he isn’t cut outright. Dameon Pierce spent most of his career on a bad Texans team, that kept using him less and less. He had a cup of coffee with K.C. last season, now he’s here as depth, and to bolster our kick return game. (+)
TE: Dallas Goedert (82 – 60 – 591 – 9.8 – 11) was a redzone nightmare in 2025. On top of which he’s a solid blocker in the run game. Grant Calcaterra (13 – 9 – 76 – 8.4 – 1) is not a very physical player, but he’s a decent receiving option. Johnny Mundt was ostensibly brought over to help the position with another credible blocker. Goedert is very good, but he tends to miss time, and this position is only one player deep. (-)
WR: A.J. Brown (121 – 78 – 1003 – 12.8 – 7) posted his fourth straight year with at least 1,000 receiving yards, and 7 touchdown catches. Real speed, strong hands, and he’s a problem after the catch. Rumor has it that he’ll be traded to the Patriots in June. (I’d rather it’d be Cleveland.) So let’s talk about what the Eagles might look like without him.
WR catches the go-ahead score. (DT Jordan Love would later seal the game.)
DeVonta Smith (113 – 77 – 1008 – 13.0 – 4) is a silky smooth route runner who uncovers quickly, and has reliable hands. He’s very slight of frame, so he can’t be sent over the middle too much. The recent trade and contract extension for Dontayvion Wicks(Packers), has many certain that Brown will be traded soon. Darius Cooper (11 – 9 – 92 – 10.2 – 0) was assignment solid in his rookie season, and is expected to take a big jump this season.
The Eagles added free agents Marquise “Hollywood” Brown and Elijah Moore. Both have loads of starting experience but are smallish targets, inviting the question of whether both will be kept. This is especially true with 6’6 228 Johnny Wilson(a good run blocker), returning from an injury that cost him all of 2025. In addition to Smith, regardless of which four make the roster, this will be an extremely deep position. Even without Brown. (+)
OT: Perennial All-Pro and future Hall of Fame RT Lane Johnson, is coming back for another year. He’ll be 36, and is coming off of a Lisfranc sprain that ended his 2025 season. At LT Jordan Mailata has yet to get a Pro Bowl nod, but is well considered to be among the best at his position.
Swing T Fred Johnson tested free agency, hoping to start elsewhere; but his market kept him in Philadelphia. He’s generally reliable, but he doesn’t always bring his mean-streak, which is likely what’s keeping him a back-up. His presence however, stabilizes this group. Behind him are Cameron Williams and Myles Hinton, a pair of 6th rounders from last year. (+)
OG: Landon Dickerson returns to LG despite rumors that he was going to retire. Injuries dogged him in 2025 and caused him to seek stem cell treatment in the offseason. Interestingly, he had the three years left on his extension reduced to just two. Tyler Steenreturns to RG but lacks the mean streak to stand out there. Especially in the run game. This group fell off in 2025, and a bounce-back can’t just be assumed. It needs to be seen first.
Both Drew Kendalland Willie Lampkin can also play the pivot. Kendall has a single start in his career. Combined, they have played in 7 games, with none of those games being by Lampkin. They are young. Correction, they are Similac young. Dropper feed young. There is versatility here, but no truly experienced depth. (-)
C: Cam Jurgenswas voted to his second consecutive Pro Bowl, but in all truth he kind of sucked in 2025, due to his back. He gutted through it for 14 starts, then was one of two Eagles offensive linemen to receive stem cell treatment in Colombia, during the offseason. It’ll be interesting to see if there’s a resurgence of the Brotherly Shove in 2026, or if the Eagles keep avoiding it, and lend credence to the accusation that it’s an increased injury risk.
Behind Jurgens are Wilie Lampkin, Drew Kendall andJake Majors. The only one of them that’s ever played a snap in a real game, is Kendall with seven games and one start, during week 18. All four players at this position are also listed as Guards, so there is some versatility, but it’s very green. (-)
In A Nutshell: A brand new offensive system, and an Offensive Line that has to prove that it isn’t washed. Otherwise, there are some great pieces here. (-)
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DEFENSE:
DE: Brandon Graham(8 – 3.0 – 0 – 0) is currently still on the roster and listed at this position, despite being used last year as an interior rusher. He played just 113 total snaps in 9 games. Ta’Quon Graham (no relation) comes over as a free agent from Atlanta. He’s already a longshot to make the roster. Many of the players who would normally be listed as an End, are listed by the Eagles as OLB, and will be discussed there. (-)
DT Jordan Davis seals victory by blocking a FG. Then recovering it. Then returning it for a touchdown.
DT: Jalen Carter(33 – 3.0 – 0 – 0) Missed six games last year with shoulder injuries. Don’t let the numbers fool you, he faces double teams consistently, and still manages to be highly disruptive, batting down 7 passes last year. Jordan Davis(72 – 4.5 – 0 – 0) blocked and returned a field goal for a touchdown, and also batted down 6 passes. He had a monster year, where he was likely the most impactful player on the Defense and Special Teams. Which earned him a fat three year extension.
Moro Ojomo (38 – 6.0 – 0 – 0) has been a solid back-up, and will command a boatload of money once his rookie deal is up. Byron Young(37 – 2.5 – 0 – 1) had a nice year and will look to prove that he can be a consistent part of a rotation. Ty Robinson (5 tackles) needs to step his game up. (+)
OLB: (Players in this paragraph play on the Defensive Line.) Jaylx Hunt(52 – 6.5 – 3 – 1) led the team in both sacks (6.5) and interceptions (3) despite just starting 9 games. Nolan Smith (31 – 3 – 0 – 0) had an unremarkable 2025. He’s had big moments, but at 238 pounds he might be too small to rely on, on the line. Joe Tyron-Shoyinka and Arnold Ebiketie are free agents brought in to possibly bolster the pass rush.
Zack Baun(123 – 3.5 – 2 – 1) is an actual off-ball ‘backer. He covers well, plays the run great and is an effective blitzer. Smael Mondon (11 tackles) has to this point been a Special Teamer. He has the physical tools, but he’s deep on the depth chart. (+)
MLB/ILB: Jihaad Campbell(80 – 0.0 – 1 – 1) made enough of an impression as rookie, to render another player expendable, and take over his starting role. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (32 tackles) is the back-up, in a role that used to belong to his father. He’s not as physical, but has stickier fingers. Chandler Martin and Chance Campbellwere free agents brought in as depth. (+)
S:Andrew Mukuba (46 – 0.5 – 2 – 0) was improving weekly during his rookie season, until he was injured and lost for the season. Marcus Epps (21 tackles) made four starts last season. Epps isn’t a bad player, but he plays to not get beat, instead playing to make the play. So he’s always regarded as “experienced” or “veteran” or “reliable”, but never “good”. Andre Sam is on the roster. Still. (-)
S Andrew Mukuba gets first career interception from that OTHER Kelce’s drop.
CB: Currently the Eagles have 12 players at this position, but I’m only talking about the 6 likely to make the roster. Quinyon “Quinyonamo Bay” Mitchell (45 – 0.0 – 0 – 1) still doesn’t have a regular season interception, but is still very much a shutdown corner. Cooper DeJean(93 – 0.0 – 2 – 0) is possibly the best slot corner in the game. Jakorian Bennett(7 tackles) hardly saw the field, but is “traitsy” and could stick around as depth.
Michael Carter(10 tackles) is a Nickel who might be in line for a position switch. Free agent Tariq Woolen is one of the best man-coverage players in the sport, but he’s had some trouble with allowing immaturity to draw penalties. Jonathan Jones is another free agent addition. His age and experience being the key assets in a room loaded with youth. Loaded. (+)
In A Nutshell: Safety is a concern. Otherwise, this unit could ALREADY be better than last year’s. (+)
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SPECIAL TEAMS:
P: Braden Mann(72 – 49.9 – 8 – 20) kicked his way into a shiny new deal of 4 years for 14M$. With 20 punts landing inside the 20 yardline as opposed to touchbacks (8), he really sets the Defense up with a steep advantage. (+)
K Jake Elliott
K: For a second straight year, Jake Elliott(20/27 – 74.0% – 41/42 – 97.6%) has made less than 80% of his field goal attempts. That 74% is glaring, yet the Eagles reworked his contract, instead of cutting him or bringing in a second player. Not sure about the reasoning on this. (-)
In A Nutshell: Mann should take photos with the Defense. Competition needs to be brought in for Elliott. (-)
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BOTTOM LINE:
The Eagles biggest problem, is mostly that they have to demonstrate that they don’t have any big problems. Speculation about them is rampant, but actual evidence of their demise, is sorely lacking. Prediction: 12 – 5
Missed playoffs, 7 – 9 – 1, second place in the NFC East, 27.7aps, 30.1apa
STUMBLING out of the gate to a 1 – 2 – 1 record, in the first four weeks; the Cowboys were never able to recover solid footing. Falling to 3 – 5 – 1 by the mid-season Bye week, it seemed the season was lost. However, back to back victories over the Eagles and Chiefs (both teams were had been in the last Super Bowl), gave the Cowboys a 6 – 5 – 1 recored and hope. After which they went 1 – 4, snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, to finish 7 – 9 – 1.
During the offseason, a new defensive coordinator was added. But do they have the pieces they need for the switch?
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OFFENSE:
QB: Dak Prescott 17 starts (404/600 – 67.3% – 4552 – 30 – 10) (53 – 177 – 3.3 – 2 – 6) His 2025 stats practically mirrored his annual averages. He’s very settled into his game, and that has pros as well as cons.
Pros: He doesn’t try to force throws he can’t make, and he executes familiar routes on a tight schedule. Cons: Everyone knows what he is and isn’t comfortable with, so he can be baited into extremely costly turnovers. Mostly because he keeps such a tight schedule.
Joe Milton (15/24 – 62.5% – 183 – 1 – 2) (5 – 50 – 10 – 0 – 1) Young guy with an absolute bazooka for an arm. Problem is, he relies on velocity far too much. As a result, his passes lack touch. More often he ends up throwing the ball at a receiver, as opposed to throwing them open. (+)
RB: Javonte Williams (252 – 1201 – 4.7 – 11 – 2 \ 51 – 35 – 137 – 3.9 – 2) earned a big shiny contract with his best season as a pro. That said, his team finished 7 – 9 – 1, with him failing to reach 70 rushing yards in 7 of the 16 games he played. If Dallas is to make the playoffs, more is needed from him.
Malik Davis (52 – 250 – 4.8 – 2 – 0 \ 5 – 2 – 16 – 8.0 – 0) and Jaydon Blue (38 – 129 – 3.3 – 1 – 1 \ 1 – 1 – 5 – 5.0 – 0) are both smaller types that offer a change of pace from the larger Williams. Hunter Luepke (16 – 71 – 4.4 – 0 – 0 \ 15 – 13 – 109 – 8.3 – 1) is more of a FB. (+)
TE:Jake Ferguson (102 – 82 – 600 – 7.3 – 8) won’t scare a defense. But he’s a reliable security blanket. Luke Schoonmaker (23 – 14 – 132 – 9.4 – 0) is the primary back-up but mostly a blocker. Brevyn Spann-Ford (13 – 9 – 90 – 10.0 – 1) big target with questionable hands. It’s not flashy, but it works. Better still, it works because it contrasts with the rest of the passing game. (+)
WR CeeDee Lamb misses one
WR: Last year’s top receiver, George Pickens (137 – 93 – 1429 – 15.3 – 9) has yet to sign his franchise tag; but CeeDee Lamb (117 – 75 – 1077 – 14.3 – 3) has focus drop issues, but is still capable of leading the room.Ryan Flournoy (56 – 40 – 475 – 11.8 – 4) spent 2025 blossoming into a reliable option.
KaVonte Turpin (38 – 26 – 396 – 15.2 – 2) is still trying to establish himself as a real receiver, but at 5’3” is a very small target to hit, especially while under duress. Jonathan Mingo (5 – 1 – 25 – 25.0 – 0) has caught just 46 percent of his targets in his career. This is a good, but not great group, with a lot of flash. The joke is that many teams have caught on, that this group is not as good as the Cowboys think it is. (+)
OT: There’s speculation that Tyler Smith may again be moved to LT. That would likely move Tyler Guyton to the bench, with Terence Steele manning the RT post. Smith was drafted to be a LT, but he was average at best there, before being moved inside and becoming a perennial Pro-Bowler. Why shake that up?
Steele is serviceable, but he will never be mistaken for a star. Guyton is only in his third year and still on his rookie deal, which makes him super-affordable; but he’s a penalty generator. Nate Thomas had four starts as a rookie last year, and is still figuring it out. (-)
OG: LG Tyler Smith was drafted for the edge, struggled a little and was kicked inside. There he has found a home as a perennial Pro Bowler, and earned himself a contract extension that averages 24M per year. RG Tyler Booker was drafted last year and started 14 games. He was pretty average overall, but for a rookie, that’s not awful.
Trevor Keegan is the backup. He’s appeared in 3 games with no starts. No, seriously. That’s all the depth here. Zero interior depth, on a line with three Black guys named Tyler. As long as the starters are healthy, everything is fine. If someone gets nicked up… Scary stuff. (+)
C: Cooper Beebe is a wide load, but he has trouble with quickness inside, and has trouble getting his second arm involved, resulting in him often playing his one arm against two. If you’re running HB dive all game, he’s a road grader. Otherwise, he’s not much. Matt Hennessy is a career back-up, who comes over as a free agent to provide depth. (-)
In A Nutshell: Every position on this unit, looks better if you don’t look closely at it. They’ll score, but they have some glaring weakness. (+)
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DEFENSE:
DE: With a new coordinator comes a new scheme. Specifically, a shift from a 4-3 front, to a 3-4. That means a shift for some player positions as well. The Cowboys have recently favored smaller faster Ends, and that’s going to cause some headaches.
Donovan Ezeiruaku (40 -2.0 – 0 – 0) was a 4-3 End, but weighing 248 pounds he cannot be a 3-4 End. He’ll likely be moved to OLB. As of now however, he’s still listed at this position. At OLB some coverage duties will fall to him. Thing is, even in college he didn’t do that. Given the hip surgery that he had in January, adding coverage to his game, won’t be easy. James Houston (35 – 5.5 – 0 – 1) at 241 pounds is in that same boat. He, (like Ezeiruaku), has also never made a play on a ball in coverage.
As for other players listed at this position, there’s Jonathan Bullard who has had a long and unremarkable career. We’re talking ten years, 6.5 sacks, and 0 turnovers. Then there’s Tyrus Wheat. Spent two years in Dallas, went to Detroit last year, had a career-high 1.5 sacks, then decided to return to Dallas. (-)
DT Quinnen Williams
DT: Quinnen Williams (53 – 1.5 – 1 – 0) started 7 games here last year, after coming over in a trade. He didn’t look too bad in the 4-3 they ran, but now they’re switching to a 3-4, which will likely see him moved to an End spot. Kenny Clark (36 – 3.0 – 0 – 0) started every game here last season, and will probably switch to Nose, where he’s already earned two Pro Bowl nods.
Otitio Ogbonnia comes over in free agency as a big body added for depth. For four years he’s been entirely unremarkable. Jay Toia (3 tackles) is also a huge body for depth. Again, if the starter (Clark) stays healthy, all is butter. The fall-off from him to the back-ups, is massive. (+)
OLB: Rashan Gary at 277 pounds will be moved to End in this 3-4. DeMarvion Overshown (28 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) yet again had to dance with an injury bug that robbed him of double digit games. He played in six games, starting the final five. When healthy, he’s an absolute menace, but his build (6’2 220) is rather slight for the position, and keeps him in street clothes.
LB DeMarvion Overshown makes a tackle
Like Overshown, Shemar James (91 – 1.5 – 0 – 0) is lightning quick, but his build (6’1 222) doesn’t suggest a long career at this position. Particularly at the speed he plays at. Marist Liufau (30 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) has played both inside and outside. He’s high effort and energy, if he can lower his percentage of missed tackles, he might get more opportunities to play.
MLB/ILB: Justin Barron has played just on Special Teams. Two games and no stats so far. He’s it here. There aren’t even camp bodies. Expect a Draft pick to be spent here early. (-)
S: Malik Hooker (52 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) is coming off possibly his worst season as a starter. Perhaps a change of scheme will rejuvenate him. Markquese Bell (41 – 0.0 – 1 – 0) had three starts last year. Whether he showed enough to be considered a starter this year, remains to be seen. The addition of Denver free agents Jalen Thompson and P.J. Locke, puts an immediate cloud over that idea. (-)
CB: DaRon Bland (73 – 0.0 – 1 – 0) is likely to be used on the outside instead of the slot, according to the head coach. Weird since he’s been at his best in the slot.Shavon Revel (35 tackles) made five starts as a rookie, but was hampered by injuries. Odds are that he gets the other corner spot, since the Cowboys don’t have a clear second.
Caelen Carson (17 tackles) had three starts, but instead of elevating him, the Cowboys went out and spent free agent money. The same thing can be said of Trikweze Bridges (23 – 0.0 – 1 – 0), who started two games. Free agent Cobie Durant wasn’t handed a 1year 4M$ deal, to ride pine. Corey Ballentine (2 tackles) re-signed with the Cowboys, but for much less (just 1.3M) than Durant’s deal. (Just in case you were trying to sort out where the Cowboys value these guys.) (-)
In A Nutshell: A 3-4 front being run with 4-3 players, and no stability in the Secondary. (-)
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SPECIAL TEAMS:
P: Bryan Anger (41 – 48.6 – 0 – 14) wasn’t needed much last season, which at least helps save wear and tear on his leg. (+)
K Brandon Aubrey
K: Brandon Aubrey (36/42 – 85.7% – 47/48 – 97.9%) Just signed a big 4 year deal. His ability to hit from 70 yards is goddamned special. (+)
In A Nutshell: As long as the field position battle is being won, the Cowboys we be alive and kicking in every game.
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BOTTOM LINE:
This team has the ability to get points out of most of their drives. That means they have to place an emphasis on defense. If they can figure out a defense, they immediately become a player in the NFC. Prediction: 10 – 7
AFTER appearing in the NFC Championship game, everyone was sure this would be a Super Bowl team in 2025. Except me. I said they’d regress and go 9 – 8. They did regress. Injuries, a tougher schedule, and a reliance on aging players who couldn’t get over that hump, combined to kill the Commanders season in its crib. Problem is, this season, they face many of the same issues. Just a year older.
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OFFENSE:
The Washington offense
QB:Jayden Daniels 7 starts (114/188 – 60.6% – 1262 – 8 – 3) (58 – 278 – 4.7 – 2 – 3) He was limited to less than half a season due to a knee sprain, a hamstring sprain, and a dislocated (non-throwing) elbow. Which he later re-aggravated, leading to the coaches shutting him down for the last three games. He played through a broken rib in 2024, starting all 17 games.
The kind of damage he’s taking, isn’t simple wear and tear. While he shows a great deal of maturity, poise and ability, the number one ability in sports, is availability. While his toughness isn’t in question, his durability clearly is. Going forward it has to be.
Marcus Mariota 8 starts (139/227 – 61.2% – 1695 – 10 – 7) (50 – 297 – 5.9 – 1 – 6) In the right situation, he’d be a dangerous back-up. Washington is not that situation. However, at 32 what he still brings to a team is sound judgment, and a set of wheels that are still getting him 30 and 40 yard runs. So he provides enough dynamism to give an offensive coordinator the ability to throw in a wrinkle or two. (+)
RB: Rookie “Bill” Jacory Croskey-Merritt (175 – 805 – 4.6 – 8 – 4 \ 13 – 9 – 68 – 7.5 – 0) rocketed up the depth chart after being drafted in the 7th round. Failing to post 70 rushing yards in 13 of the 17 games he played, helped chain his team to their 5 – 12 record. It would not be weird to see a third round draft pick spent here.
Jeremy Nichols (44 – 221 – 5.0 – 1 – 1 \ 31 – 25 – 196 – 7.8 – 0) played in all 17 games last year, and may see a larger role in 2026. Or he may not, with the addition of Rachaad White from Tampa Bay. Jerome Ford is a refugee from the failed state that is the Browns. (-)
TE: Ben Sinnott (12 – 11 – 114 – 10. 3 – 1) could be the new starter in 2026. He hasn’t done much in two seasons, but he’s a second round pick, so he’ll get a chance to prove that he belongs. John Bates (16 – 11 – 103 – 9.4 – 1) is a back-up and a blocker, as is Colson Yankoff (3 – 2 – 18 – 9.0 – 0). And yes, that’s his real last name. (-)
WR: Allowed their top receiver from 2025 to walk. Terry McLaurin (60 – 38 – 582 – 15.3 – 3) due to an injured and re-injured quad, missed 7 non-consecutive games last year. (More than the total that he’d missed in his career.) While he played the final 6 weeks of the season, he did not finish strong.
Jaylin Lane (32 – 16 – 225 – 14.0 – 0) and Luke McCaffrey (15 – 11 – 203 – 18.4 – 3) contributed as youngsters last season, and will be expected to step up in 2026. The Commanders seem to think they’ve found something in Treylon Burk (22 – 10 – 130 – 13.0 – 1), so they re-signed him in free agency. A star on the decline and three unproven youngsters. (-)
OT: Josh Conerly is the young cornerstone of the Commanders line. He started every game as a rookie last year, but the Commanders offense struggled, all season long. Laremy Tunsil started 14 games in his first year with the team. Whether he will be the 2026 starter, or whether the Commanders will roll the dice on the youth movement; to give Brandon Coleman a shot at the job, remains to be seen. Sam Cosmi is rumored to be a cut candidate. (+)
OG: Chris Paul started 15 games last season, which was the biggest opportunity he’d gotten in his four year career. Nick Allegretti and Andrew Wylie may have to compete for the other starting spot. Both have been starters, but neither has exactly shined. This may allow undrafted, second year men, Tyler Cooper and Timothy McKay to also enter that mix. (-)
C: Julian Good-Jones is the only player listed at the position. He’s been in the NFL since 2020, is 29 years old, and has played exactly two snaps in his entire career. Last year. The Commanders literally don’t have another player on the roster who is more qualified to start. (-)
In A Nutshell: Fragile QB, weak receivers, and a bad interior line. If this team regresses, don’t act surprised. (-)
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DEFENSE:
DE: Dorrance Armstrong (24 – 5.5 – 0 – 0 ) seems like he’ll be the only serious holdover from last season. He played seven games last year, before a knee injury ended his season. K’Lavon Chaisson is a free agent from the Patriots, coming off a career-high 7.5 sacks. In each of the last three seasons Chaisson has increased his sack number, and the Commanders are banking on that for 2026.
Veteran presence Charles Omenihu comes over from Kansas City. Both Drake Jackson (3 – 0 – 0 – 0) and Javontae Jean-Baptiste (6 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) were both on the team last year, but they don’t look like they factor much into future plans. Pretty sure a draft pick gets spent here in the first two rounds this year. (-)
DT: Javon Kinlaw (43 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) started every game last season, but probably wasn’t as productive as the team would have liked. Daron Payne (46 – 3.0 – 0 – 0) added 5 batted passes while starting all but two games. Jer’Zhan Newton (38 – 5.0 – 0 – 0) had a mixed bag as a rookie. While his pass rush help was welcome, he was sort of liability vs the run.
The Commanders are hoping that former Texan, free agent Tim Settle will bring some the swagger that Houston’s defense showed last season, when Settle started twelve games. Rickey Barber (5 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) and Shy Tuttle (4 tackles) are deep reserves. (-)
OLB: Frankie Luvu (86 – 3.0 – 0 – 0) has seen his solo tackles slide for the third year in a row. This is despite starting every game, and logging a career-high 1107 snaps on defense. Decline has set in. Irrefutably. Jordan Magee (54 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) made eight starts, but didn’t do much with them. Nick Bellore (12 tackles) is a Special Teamer who sometimes plays FB.
Looking to beef up their defensive playmaking, the Commanders added a few free agents. Leo Chenal (K.C.) who has a history of playing every position upfront. Odafe Oweh (Chargers) was added to punch up the pass rush, since he’s been productive at that, throughout his career. DJ Johnson (Carolina) is listed at this position, but they may try him at End. (-)
MLB: Okay, here’s what’s going on. Bobby Wagner (162 – 4.2 – 2 – 0) isn’t on the roster. He’s a free agent right now, and the “door is open” for his return. But he’s not here now. So lets look at who is.
Ale Kaho (5 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) has just 5 tackles in his career. Kain Medrano (5 – 0.0 – 0 – 1) has just 5 tackles in his career. The Commanders need to stop lying to themselves about having options, and call in a dump truck of money for Wagner. (-)
S: Quan Martin (99 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) sees his tackles go up each year, as his interceptions go down. Will Harris (38 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) didn’t have a great year in his first year as a Commander. Jeremy Reaves (91 – 1.0 – 1 – 0) got to start eight games and had his best year.
Nick Cross was brought over in free agency from the Colts, to try to resuscitate this Secondary. Meanwhile Tyler Owens (13 tackles), and Percy Butler (14 tackles) will remain back-ups. (-)
CB: Mike Sainristil (85 – 0.0 – 4 – 0) has started reliably. How he’s played has been another story. The club is convinced the issue is the lack of help around him, so they spent some money this offseason. Rookie Trey Amos (32 tackles) saw eight starts, so the question is ‘can he elevate his game this year?’
Ahkello Witherspoon comes over from the Rams on a minor prove it contract; but it’s free agent Amik Robertson who may be the straw that stirs this drink from the slot. Tre Hawkins and Darius Rush are also on the roster. Two of their three top players here, just had to be added. They have more talent, but they still have to see if it works out. (-)
In A Nutshell: There are literally no strong parts to this unit. Expect a rough year. (-)
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SPECIAL TEAMS:
P: Tress Way (56 – 47.3 – 4 – 29) putting over half of his punts inside the 20 was a hidden gem in the Commanders lost 2025 season. (+)
K: Jake Moody (10/11 – 90.9% – 10/11 – 90.9%) spent 2025 on three rosters, finally ending up here. For what it’s worth, he’s the only player on the roster at the position today. (+)
In A Nutshell: It’s not exciting to look at, but the stability here will keep this team in games closer than they should be. (+)
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BOTTOM LINE:
They lost production from last season. Didn’t make any free agent splashes, and are without a second and fourth round pick in this draft. Where is the boost supposed to come from? Prediction: 5 – 12
IT started slow, but then there was a storm ignited by a pair of rookies. QB Jaxson Dart and RB Cam Skattebo, came out guns blazing. Playing with swagger. A fast and hard brand of football. So hard in fact that they spent large amounts of time in the blue tent or not playing football at all. The 4 -13 record got head coach Brian Daboll fired, and John Harbaugh formerly of the Ravens, took over. Now after having traded away a cornerstone player, the giants sit with the #5 and #10 picks in this year’s NFL Draft, taking place in just 4 days. This should be good.
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OFFENSE:
QB: Jaxson Dart 12 starts (216/339 – 63.7% – 2272 – 15 – 5) (86 – 487 – 5.6 – 9 – 5) The rookie’s style was full of swag. Young, brash and exciting. He also missed two starts due to one concussion, and has had to be evaluated to rule out a few others. He’s going to have to learn to protect himself better, or be better managed, if he’s going to stick with his ‘rough and tumble’ brand of football.
Brian Daboll sends Meal Ticket back into the game, even though his eyes look wrong.
How he’s going to respond to a total regime change, with the firing Brian Daboll and the hiring of Jim Harbaugh, will be interesting to watch. The two coaches approaches couldn’t be more different.
Jameis Winston 2 starts (37/66 – 56.0% – 567 – 2 – 2) (7 – 23 – 3.2 – 1 – 1) He’s the personified chaos of snorting a line of cocaine off live rat, and then going straight to church. Something. Is. Going. To. Happen. His every snap teeters on the edge of a highlight reel play for either his team or the opponent’s. He’s all wrong for this roster, but the Big Apple loves lightning rods. (+)
RB: Tyrone Tracy (176 – 740 – 4. 2 – 2 – 1 \ 48 – 36 – 288 – 8.0 – 2) may be their most explosive player at this position, but that may not be enough to hold off Cam Skattebo (101 – 410 – 4.0 – 5 – 1 \ 32 – 24 – 207 – 8.6 – 2), whose hard-nosed approach was winning over the fanbase last year. It also helped him to a couple of injuries. If he’s recovered from the leg injury that ended his season, he may be given the starting nod.
RB Cam Skattebo sustains a season-ending ankle injury.
Devin Singletary (119 – 437 – 3.6 – 5 – 0 \ 19 – 18 – 151 – 8.3 – 0) saw more snaps due to other players being out with injury. He was serviceable, but not impressive. He might want to step away from the game soon, before it starts to embarrass him. (-)
TE: Theo Johnson (74 – 45 – 528 – 11.7 – 5) has the tools, but may not be surrounded with the right complementary pieces. Especially with Isaiah Likely being brought over from Baltimore. Chris Manhertz (2 – 1 – 7 – 7.0 – 0) is essentially a small offensive lineman. Same for Thomas Fidone. (+)
WR: After losing last year’s top receiver to the Titans, the return of Malik Nabers (35 – 18 – 271- 15.0 – 2) from a season-ending injury, gives the giants a needed boost of morale. Darius Slayton (63 – 37 – 538 – 14.5 – 1) provides solid veteran depth, as does free agent addition Darnell Mooney.
Ryan Miller, Jaylin Hyatt, Gunner Olszewski and Isaiah Hodgins are just guys and Special Teamers. This team will be spending an early draft pick here. (-)
OT: RT Jermain Eluemunor started 16 games in 2025 and was rewarded with a three year extension for 39M$. Probably not wisest use of 40 million bucks, but the giants are kind of experts in that field. They may simply want to use him less as a quote/unquote cornerstone, and more as a point of stability for rebuilding their line.
LT Andrew Thomas was enjoying a sort of resurgence until his hamstring put him on season-ending Injured Reserve. Marcus Mbow was a fifth round rookie last year and he looks to be the Swing T this year. The fourth guy at this spot is Reid Holskey, but he looks to be JAG. (-)
OG: Jon Runyan Jr despite his consistency as a starter and playing at both spots, is rumored to be a possible cap casualty. Given the volatile state of the line’s interior that may not be the smartest move. Aaron Stinnie was demoted from starter last year and Jake Kubas only has three starts.
Evan Neal is moving inside as an experiment and the g-men have added former Raven Daniel Faalele, who is massive, but misses a ton of blocks. (-)
C: John Michael Schmitz is the starter. He has yet to distinguish himself despite having been a second round pick (which is high for this position). Bryan Hudson is an undrafted back-up, who played a total of three snaps in two games last year. (-)
In A Nutshell: Having a lackluster offensive line and skill players who want to play roller derby, is a bad mix.
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DEFENSE:
DE: New defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson favors a 3-4, and the giants are built for it, so expect it to continue. They don’t specifically list players at this position. Some of their players are listed as DL (defensive linemen). So I’ll try to sort that here.
Chauncey Golston (20 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) is largely a run control player. He parlayed one fugazi season of 5.5 sacks, into bamboozling the Commanders into a three year deal. His agent should either win an award or do hard time. Sam Roberts is coming off a career-high sack last season. That’s it. (-)
DT: The trade of Dexter Lawrence to Cincy REALLY shakes up this group. More like unravels it, because there are no replacements in this Draft. Roy Robertson-Harris (35 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) started every game here last season, so with the move to a 3-4 alignment, he’s the odds-on favorite to be the Nose. However, third round pick Darius Alexander (20 – 3.5 – 0 – 0) had two starts as a rookie, so it wouldn’t surprise if he got the starting nod.
At six foot 278 pounds Elijah Chapman (3 tackles) isn’t beefy enough to hold up as an interior lineman, in the NFC East. He might have value as an End, but as an interior lineman, he’s a career back-up at best. Marlon Tuipulotu comes over from K.C. presumably as depth. (-)
OLB Brian Burns
OLB: Brian Burns (67 – 16.5 – 0 – 1) exploded last year, racking up as many sacks as he had in the previous two seasons combined. It earned him his first All-Pro nod. Abdul Carter (43 – 4.0 – 0 – 2) had to walk back some of his rookie talk, when the NFL showed him how much work he still needs to put in.
Kayvon Thibodeaux (25 – 2.5 – 0 – 0) started ten games, but his production continues to frustrate the giants front office. Couple years ago, I asked if he was an over-drafted role player. Oh well. Free agent Caleb Murphy was added for depth. (+)
MLB: Micah McFadden (3 tackles) was lost for the year in first game. Nonetheless, the giants re-signed him this season. That speaks volumes. Darius Mauau (51 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) started eleven of twelve games, when things in the middle had to be shuffled due injury. Still it seems as if the giants aren’t confident in him taking the next step, so they spent good money in free agency.
Free agent Tremaine Edmunds will make the middle of the field considerably less safe for offenses in 2026. He’s a reliable tackler, but at 6’4 he also gets his fingers on passes like he’s a DB, and comes down with more than a fair number of them. (+)
S: Jevon Holland (63 – 0.0 – 1 – 0) mixed bag in his first year as a giant, despite fourteen starts. Tyler Nubin (78 – 0.0 – 0 – 1), his eleven starts were two fewer than his rookie season, even though he played as many games (thirteen) in both. Jason Pinnock returns from a year in San Fran, but everyone below him, is basically a camp body. (-)
CB: Paulson Adebo (73 – 0.0 – 1 – 0) found the NFC East a little more of challenge than the NFC South had been. We’ll see if he’s made the adjustment in 2026. Andru Phillips (66 – 0.0 – 2 – 1) is a gamer, but could use more support around him. Deonte Banks (31 tackles) is safe to say is a bust now. It’s odd that he’s still on the roster.
CB Greg Newsome
From free agency Greg Newsome was added, but just on a one year deal. If he goes off this year, the giants may regret not locking him longer, at a lesser price. There are four players at this position who are essentially Special Teamers only. Ughhhhhh! This team. (+)
In A Nutshell: The trade of Lawrence was a grenade going off in their pocket. They don’t have the players to compensate for what they lost in him.
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SPECIAL TEAMS:
P: Jordan Stout was brought up from Baltimore with the new head coach. He had a career year last season, but he’s going to find that kicking in MetLife Stadium is one of the trickiest gigs in the league.
K: Ben Sauls (8/8 – 100 – 7/7 – 100) as a rookie, made everything he attempted in the three games he played last year. So I don’t understand bringing in a second player to compete with him. Enter Jason Sanders, a 30year old former Dolphin, who missed all of 2025 with a hip injury. Seriously. Make that make sense! Ughhhhh. This team!
In A Nutshell: This is the giants, doing giants things.
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BOTTOM LINE:
If I didn’t know better, I’d say they were already trying to tank for next year’s Draft. Too many of their recent decisions have been half-measures or just outright dumb. Nothing about this team’s moves lately, signals that they wish to compete in 2026. Prediction 6 – 11
LINEBACKER Nakobe Dean(55 – 4.0 – 0 – 0) is as good as gone, if we don’t trade OLB Nolan Smith (31 – 3.0 – 0 – 0).
Dean will be a Free Agent when the league year starts in March. Not only will he want a nice contract, he’s also going to want a chance to start. He can get both if he goes to Dallas, and joins defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who served as our DB coach this past season
Since nobody here is interested in Dean playing against us twice a year, the smart move is to find a way to keep that star off his helmet. With more cap space than Dallas, I like our chances in a bidding contest. Especially with his injury history, which every team will try to use as leverage. I think playing time offered will factor more heavily than money, because no one is breaking the bank to sign him. He’ll probably see a deal around 8M per, over 2 or 3 years, laden with incentives, regardless of where he goes.
The reason that I say trade Smith, is because this past season when he missed Weeks 4 through 8, rookie LB Jihaad Campbell(80 – 0.0 – 1 – 1) started in his place. Campbell racked up 27 of his 80 tackles in that span, as well as his first career interception. When he was drafted, Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio(on more than one occasion), implied an eventual move to the edge for Campbell.
On top of all this, Smith has often been used as a DE. However, the trade for Jalean Phillips(28 – 2.0 – 0 – 1) has made Smith superfluous in that situation. Phillips is also a FA as of March, and probably about to get a deal in the area of 19M$ over 3 years. In a very real sense, Smith is standing in the way of three players. All of whom are more productive than he is. Besides, a LB corps of Dean/MLB Zack Baun/Campbell is more instinctive, talented and dynamic than a corps of Campbell/Baun/Smith.
Such a trade wouldn’t be happening in a vacuum. Word around the campfire says, the Eagles are already quietly trying to make cap space to pay DT Jalen Carter (FA after 2027) and DTJordan Davis (FA after 2026).
The Eagles could activate Carter’s fifth year option, but all signs point to them trying to get a long term extension (done early), with both.
Having to shell out for Phillips, Carter, and Davis means that not everyone gets to stay, unless they give the Eagles a hometown discount. For players like S Reed Blankenship, that would be a terrible move. He’s already not the fastest Safety. When he loses a step due to age, he won’t get the kind offer that he can demand today. So he’s almost certainly out of here.
Smith is also a FA after 2027. If he loses his starting spot to Campbell in the next year or two, the Eagles will already not be looking to not extend him. The more time left on Smith’s rookie contract, the more valuable he will be in a trade. Moving him now ensures that we get maximum value for him.
Dean, Baun, and Campbell, playing behind Phillips, Carter, Davis, and DE Jalyx Hunt. We have about 9.8 M in cap space, and can painlessly make another 22.4 in cuts, getting us to 32.2M. Most of that is going to Phillips. The real wizardry, will be about what we can do with all the dead money we have floating around. In the meantime, let’s make this trade happen.
I hear you asking, “What about all the stuff that stats don’t reveal?” Well, that’s the reason for theseFour Things articles. It’s to point out what we need to address BEFORE the game. Then AFTER the game, there’s a no-bullshit assessment of whether or not the Eagles did any of what they needed to do, to ensure the win.
So how much of what I mentioned in Four Things: COMMANDERS did the Eagles actually get around to doing? Well let’s see:
1) Start Tanner McKee:That is precisely what happened, and there is good news and bad news, as a result.
First, the bad news. Had McKee won the game and looked like the phenom that he did last year, we could have used him as trade bait for QB hungry teams. Instead he lost, while displaying little mobility, or improvisational talent, while looking more like a typical back-up.
The good news. If he’s still here when his contract expires, there’s now a decent chance that we can re-sign him ourselves. Make no mistake, this game cost McKee an easy opportunity and likely millions of dollars. Without another chance to prove himself in 2026, he won’t have a body of work that teams can project into being a starter.
I said that we should let QB Sam Howelltake the fourth quarter, so we could get a look at our future back-up. However, as I mentioned when discussing McKee, due to the missed opportunity, I’m pretty sure that we did get a look at our back-up. (DONE)
2) Chase the Yards: I wanted the Eagles to play WR DeVonta Smith, so that he could get the 44 yards that he needed, to reach 1,000 receiving yards on the season. He played and he got 52.
I also wanted to see RB Tank Bigsby get a start and maybe get 100 rushing yards. Well, he rushed for 75 with a touchdown, and added a 31 yard catch and run. So he had 106 total yards on the day. I mentioned that a sighting of RB A.J. Dillon (1 – 1 – 3 – 3.0 – 0) would be welcomed, and he caught the only ball thrown to him. (DONE)
3) Get A Long Look: There were certain players that I had my eye on in this game.
On Defense, DT Ty Robinson (3 tackles) got washed around a lot early, but then seemed to find his legs later on. CB Jakorian Bennett (1 tackle) gave up two pass interference penalties. Both were in the endzone, setting the Commanders up at the 1 yard line, and eventually becoming touchdowns. MLB Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (12 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) was all over the place. A run stuff, a tackle for loss, a QB knockdown. He’s excellent depth to have
On Offense, WR Darius Cooper (5 – 3 – 33 – 11.0 – 0) got the five targets I’d hoped he get, and he proved reliable as a blocker. He also got flagged on a bullshit taunting call early in the game. TE Cam Latu(no stats) still has yet to see an NFL target in his career. He did help clear space for Bigsby’s touchdown run, though. (DONE)
4) Don’t Shy Away From Kicking:We didn’t, and everything that left K Jake Elliott’s toe, ended up between the uprights. (DONE)
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This week’s Four Things score was 4 of 4, mostly because I already was sure that back-ups would play, so I wrote this accordingly. That wraps the season at 11 – 5, as division winners, and the #3 seed in the playoffs. Now we go to start preparing to host the 49ers next week.
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Game Hero: OLB Jalyx Hunt – Intercepted a ball and recovered a bad snap, to earn two turnovers in this game. He ends the season with 6.5 sacks (team leader) and 3 interceptions (team leader). The thing is, though he’s listed at OLB, he’s actually more of a DE, which makes those interceptions all the more impressive.
Game goat: Our CB’s – The Eagles were flagged for 4 pass interference penalties. Three of which set-up first and goals at the one yard line. And don’t get me started on Kelee Ringo(5 – 0 – 0 – 0) running away from the Commanders QB, and he ran into the end zone
On The Whole: Our back-ups went toe-to-toe with starters, and we were in the game until the final incompletion. The only group that I saw out there that worries me, is our CB’s. Or more to the point, our reserve CB’s. Whether they were setting up first and goal situations for the Commanders, or running away from a touchdown scoring ball-carrier, they looked like they didn’t belong on an NFL roster.
Regarding QB Tanner McKee, some of the balls he threw were high, and some were behind the receivers. In all truth, he just seemed like he was doing to much as the game wore on. Given all the career opportunities that were riding on his performance in this game, it’s easy to understand why he might have been pressing. I could have put the
I don’t want to hand-wring about the play-calling this week, for a myriad of different reasons. Suffice it to say, a passing attack that features more than one concept at a time, might apply more stress to the coverages we’ll see, starting next week.
LAST week’s win over Tampa Bay, gave us our third consecutive win over a team that won their division last year. We hit some rough chop in the second half, but we have a very talented, very battle tested roster. We’re led by celebrated battlers on both sides of the ball like, RT Lane Johnson and DT Jalen Carter. The Broncos can’t make that claim.
A win improves us to 5 – 0. We would enjoy another week as the only undefeated team in the conference, remaining firmly atop the NFC East.
A loss, would leave us standing at 4 – 1. Still atop the division, but now tied at the head of the conference with the 49ers.
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The point ofFour Things isn’t to predict a winner, it’s to discuss which tactics would give our Eagles the best chance to win this game. Often I list fundamentals, as some of the four things. BUT NO MORE! Unless something specific is needed, fundamentals like Running the ball; playing lots of Man Press; and Tackling instead of going for the strip, will be automatically included. (Like the five consonants and a vowel that Wheel Of Fortune automatically spots you.) So here are the Four Things that we need to focus on this week versus: the Broncos.
Look at all the room in that box! SPREAD. OUT!
1) Run Fewer Bunch Formations: We’re less effective when we do that, because it makes it easy for opponents to crowd running lanes, give us different blitz looks, and muddy any underneath passing lanes, while they drop into coverage. So how about we stop doing our opponents any favors.
Let’s get our WR’s split from the ends of line, to pull defenders laterally, and create spacing for RB Saquon Barkley to run. We’re going against a VERY smart coach this week. It’s important that we understand where our natural advantages are, and exploit those beyond his ability to scheme solutions.
2) Limit Their Run Game:Under 120 rushing yards they are 0-2. Over 120 they are 2-0. Make their QB carry the offense, since it’s highly unlikely that he can. The Broncos offense is a decent stew, meaning that their ingredients (the players) combine to make a final product that is richer and more complex, than any of the ingredients alone.
That being said, they are a decent stew, not a great one. They have no special ingredients. The Broncos don’t have any truly scary players, that you have to worry about taking over a game. So stymie their run enough to make their attack unreliable. Get their young QB trying to forcing things. Then capitalize on his mistakes.
3) Don’t Overthink It: The Broncos defensive linemen are prioritized for quickness, so their line is on the smallish side. They use a 3-4 front, dressed up as a 4-3 or a 5-2. It looks a little like this:
This is what we should look like spread out, to force those lineBackers into coverage, and out of blitzes. The 49 back there is former Eagle Alex Singleton. (Everyone wave hi!) Let’s get him chasing Saquon all day. If they want to go with a small line, let’s spread it thin and run over it!
In any case, their front five averages about 274 pounds, (291 across the middle three.) Our front five averages 329, (middle three 318). Our Offensive Line features multiple All-Pro players, and their defensive line does not. We have the size and talent advantage up front. So spread them out, and run the ball down their throats.
4) Box Them In: Set the edges and walk the middle of the pocket back to the QB. If their very average o-linemen are busy fighting our talented Defensive Linemen, then they shouldn’t be able to leak out and affect LB’s Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell, making them free to roam, hit, tip passes and catch tipped passes.
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If the Eagles do these Four Things, then we’ll be virtually impossible to beat. That being said…
The Broncos are coached by Sean Payton, who is not just clever, he’s downright sneaky. He’s wringing more out of his team than he probably should be at this point.
Having given him more than fair praise, the fact is, coaches don’t score points, players do. The Broncos players just aren’t on the same level as the Eagles, and we should make that crystal clear. We need to come out and just bully this opponent. Make it a physical beat-down, and change Sean Payton’s mind about the Brotherly Shove.
Speaking of the BruvShove, the Broncos have just one defensive line player on their entire roster, who is 320 pounds. Hoo boy!
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WARNING: I don’t have the faintest clue as to what a point spread is, and I know even less about how it works. I know FOOTBALL and that’s it. If you use Four Things as a gambling tool, then you are a fool trying to lose your money, and will deserve it when you do.
Check back in a couple of days for Four Things Reviewed, and we’ll discuss how this game went.
PHILADELPHIA 2024 finished as the Super Bowl Champions, with a record of 14 – 3, Winner of the NFC East with a record of 14 – 3, 27.7 pspg (7th), and 17.8 papg (2nd)
The team got out to a slow start, with a 2 – 2 record. We took advantage of an early Bye Week, and used it to button up some deficiencies. There’ve been a lot of offseason losses for this team, but the roster is deep, and those players looking to step up, will get their chance to.
Heading into the pre-season, this is how things look today:
OFFENSE
QB: Jalen Hurts(248/361 – 68.7% – 2903 – 18 – 5 / 150 – 630 – 3.0 – 14) posted a 12 – 3 record in 2024. He led the Eagles to the division crown, then through the playoffs and ultimately to victory in the Super Bowl, where he took MVP honors.
Tanner McKee (30/45 – 66.7% – 323 – 4 – 0) won his only game as a starter, leading Eagles back-ups against giants starters in a 20 – 13 win. That made Philadelphia feel secure enough to trade away last year’s back-up Kenny Pickett to Cleveland, and give the #2 job to McKee.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson(DTR) is who the Eagles received in the trade for Pickett. His two year NFL career has been marked by struggle, but that may be down to playing for Cleveland. He’ll compete for the 3rd string job vs rookieKyle McCord. McCord is said to be a bit of a gunslinger. These two should see plenty of preseason action. (+)
RB: Offensive Player of the year Saquon Barkley(345 – 2005 – 5.8 – 13) led the league in rushing and yards from scrimmage in 2024. He was also the focal point of the Chiefs defense in the Super Bowl, which allowed the rest of the Eagles Offense to flow so smoothly. Credit needs to be given for that. Odds are against him rushing for another 2000 yards in 2025. In fact, a stat line closer to 256 – 1228 – 4.8 – 8 seems more likely.
Just because the Eagles won’t give the ball to Barkley as much, doesn’t mean they won’t still run it a ton. Sharing the load this year will be second year man Will Shipley (30 – 82 – 2.7 – 0), who had his struggles last year, but is said to be looking sharp in early Training Camp
A.J. Dilloncomes over from the Packers, after sitting out all of 2024 with a neck stinger. He’s a big back who can catch the ball, and pick up blitzes. If he is truly recovered, the Eagles backfield is going to be an absolute nightmare for opposing defenses.
Rookie Montrell Johnsonis a between the Tackles bully, who runs behind his pads. More of a violent runner than a creative one.
WR: A.J. Brown(67 – 1079 – 16.1 – 7) is probably the most dangerous receiver in the sport. He doesn’t put up the biggest numbers. Then again his numbers aren’t empty calories, as they’ve contributed to wins, Super Bowl appearances, and an actual championship. The Chases, Jeffersons, Lambs, and St. Browns of the league can’t claim any of that.
DeVonta Smith (68 – 833 – 12.3 – 8) had a catch percentage of 76.4 last season, and he caught “The Dagger” in Super Bowl LIX. Fucking legend. Jahan Dotson (19 – 216 – 11.6 – 0) seems firmly entrenched at the #3 here. Of his 19 catches 12 were first downs. He’s been reliable when the ball is thrown to him, but he can’t throw himself the football.
Johnny Wilson (5 – 38 – 7.6 – 1) and Anias Smith (7 – 41 – 5.9 – 1) may find themselves fighting off Elijah Cooks and Terrace Marshallfor the #4 spot, as the Eagles seem hellbent to keep an undersized KR/PR specialist like either Avery Williams or rookie Ife Adeyiat the #5 spot. (+)
TE: Dallas Goedert(42 – 496 – 11.8 – 2) is a great receiving option and blocker. The knock on him, is that he hasn’t played even a 16 game season since before the COVID epidemic.Grant Calcaterra (24 – 298 – 12.4 – 1) is a very good receiver. He’d be the starter, but his blocking leaves much to be desired.
E.J. Jenkins (1 – 7 – 7.0 – 1), veterans Kylen Gransonand Harrison Bryant and rookie Cameron Latu are all fighting for that #3 spot. The group has an excellent starter, but the steep fall-off after him, is troubling. Especially since he almost certainly will mis games again. (-)
OT: RTLane Johnson is one of the best EVER at his position. Here is the short listof players stacked ahead of him, and some of those rankings are very debatable.
RT Jordan Mailata is probably the most amazing story in the NFL. From never playing football until he was 22, to one of the NFL’s (and therefore the planet’s) premier players of the position, earning his first All-Pro nod at 27. This was despite missing 5 games. He’s still a better run blocker than pass blocker though.
Darian Kinnardhas been in the NFL for two years, with two different teams, and each year his team won the Super Bowl. So he can’t be allowed off the roster! Kendall Lamm is a career back-up coming from Miami to add depth. Brett Toth has been off and on with the Eagles organization since 2020. But the latter two players aren’t in the long-term picture.
The Eagles have a pair of well developing 2025 6th rounders, in Myles Hinton (son of former All-Pro OT Chris Hinton), and Cameron Williams. There’s also Laekin Vakalahi, an undrafted player on a three-year international development contract via the International Player Pathway, which the Eagles developed Mialata through. (+)
G: LG Landon Dickerson has developed into an annual Pro-Bowler, (for whatever that’s worth these days) and is the key to the Brotherly Shove play. Tyler Steen has been capable in spot duty, and will almost certainly be the starting RG to open 2025.
Swingman Matt Pryorreturns to the Eagles after aHeading into the pre-season, this is how things look today: four year, three team tour of the league. He’s better inside than on the edge. The Eagles traded Houston for Kenyon Green. He was a 1st round pick in 2022, but has so far underachieved. He has the tools for Offensive Line Coach Jeff Stoutland to successfully harness the potential that the Texans were wasting.
Trevor Keegan was a 5th round pick last year but moves keep being made around him, instead of involving him. Hollin Pierce is a 6’8 341 pound college LT, being kicked inside and given the Mehki Becton treatment. The starters are solid, there’s a versatile veteran back-up, and even a couple of projects with very high upsides, in development. Stacked. (+)
C: In his first year of sliding over and taking over for a future Hall Of Famer, Cam Jurgens only won a Super Bowl and earned his first Pro Bowl nod. All that while playing through (since corrected) nerve pain in his back. Fucking legend. Drew Kendall is 5th round pick from this year, (who’s dad Pete also played some C in the NFL). To this point he’s made no noise in training camp.(+)
In A Nutshell: Despite a lack of depth at TE, this looks like it’ll be a top ten unit again in 2025.
DEFENSE
DE: The Eagles technically list just one player at this position, Ogbo Okoronknwo. He’s a 29 year old situational pass rusher, who won a Super Bowl with the Rams in 2021. In six seasons he has 17 sacks, with his career-high being 5 in 2022. (+)
DT: The Eagles are LOADED here. Jalen Carter (42 – 4.5 – 0 – 0) sees a double on almost every play and still produces big plays. Jordan Davis (27 – 1.0 – 0 – 1) was a terror during the 2024 playoff run, due to a fitness regiment that he began last season. He kept it up in the offseason, and now comes in more agile and much faster. Sweet Jesus.
Moro Ojomo (20 tackles) has spent the last two years playing behind Milton Williams, who left for the Patriots. Because of this and his high motor, Ojomo is expected to take a huge step up this season. Rookie 4th rounder Ty Robinson has the ability to play both inside and outside.Byron Young is a 2023 3rd round pick, who was out of football in 2024. (+)
OLB: Nolan Smith (42 – 6.5 – 0 – 2) took a big step in 2024 while starting ten games. He looks to do the same in 2025, as he is no longer splitting starts with the retired Brandon Graham. Second year man, Jaylx Hunt(21 – 1.5 – 0 – 0) takes over for the Josh Sweat, who left for Arizona.
Free agents Joshua Uche (Chiefs) and Azeez Ojulari (giants), provide excellent veteran depth, as well as a history of being very good pass rushers. Patrick Johnson comes back to Philadelphia after a season with the giants. Antwaun Powell-Ryland was a 2024 6th rounder. It’s crazy just how deep this position is. (+)
M/ILB: Zack Baun (151 – 3.5 – 1 – 1) transitioned from situational pass rusher, to NFL star last year. Rookie 1st rounderJihaad Campbell, is being shown the ropes at this position, even though all indications say a move to the outside is in the plans.
Nakobe Dean(128 – 3.0 – 1 – 2) started fifteen games last year, before being lost to a knee injury. He’s currently on the PUP List and was expected to miss some early games, but he is rehabbing like a demon, to get back Week One. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (25 – 0.5 – 0 – 0) isn’t just some nepo-baby. He’s actually good. Rookie 5th rounder Smael Mondon has been flashing since OTA’s. (+)
S: Interception machine C.J. Gardner-Johnson was traded to Houston; but we’re still okay because Reed Blankenship(78 – 0.0 – 4 – 1) has a knack for clutch takeaways. Honestly, he seems to play his best, in close games.Sydney Brown (7 – 0.0 – 1 – 0) is trying to earn the other starting spot. Brown plays very aggressively and throws his body around. Which is likely why he keeps missing time with injuries.
Rookie 2nd rounder Andrew Mukuba, has been making a strong bid since OTA’s, for the starting job. Tristin McCollum(33 tackles) and Andre Sam(1 tackle), are joined by free agent Lewis Cine, in competition for that last fourth roster spot. So there’s one starter and bunch of question marks. (-)
CB: Quinyon Mitchell (46 tackles) is the Eagles lockdown corner. Cooper DeJean (51 – 0.5 – 0 – 3) is the Nickel. He has the speed for the outside, but not the change of direction ability. There’s a battle between Kelee Ringo (15 – 0.0 – 0 – 1) and former giant Adoree Jackson, for that second starting spot.
According to Spotracthe Eagles currently have 30M in cap space, in part because they didn’t elect to pay Darius Slay 10M. So we are now looking for a 2nd starter here, and things in training camp don’t sound promising. But wait! A trade was just made with Las Vegas, to bring in Jakorian Bennett, to increase the competition. Eli Ricks may be the odd man out. (-)
In A Nutshell: There’s more than enough talent to patch the holes made by defections, if the chemistry is there.
SPECIAL TEAMS:
K: Jake Elliott(FG 28/36 (77.7%), XP 47/48 (97.9%)), struggled for much of last season, especially from 50+, where he was 1/7 (14.2%). But he caught fire in the playoffs nailing 10/11 (90.9%) FG and 13/16 XP. (+)
P: Braden Mann(48.8ypp, 41.9 net) put together a very good season. The highlight being that of his 54 punts the Eagles allowed just 187 return yards. ALL. SEASON. LONG. (+)
In A Nutshell: Hey, if it ain’t broke…
BOTTOM LINE: No way is a team supposed to lose as much talent as the Eagles did, and still be a favorite to appear in a Super Bowl. The roster is deep, young, and hungry. It’s also led by a coaching staff that philosophically bends scheme to the player’s strengths, instead of trying to do it the other way around. This team is a monster.
OPERATION Bounceback begins, as Dallas looks to pick themselves up after they finished 2024 with a record of 7-10, 3rd in the NFC East, 20.6 pspg (21st), 27.5 papg (31st).
Injuries derailed this team last season. They managed to tread water for a while, going 3-3 until their Week Seven Bye. They came back and lost four straight games, dropping them to 3-7, behind two division rivals that were ho,t and refusing to cool off. Missing the playoffs became almost a mercy killing. Head coach Mike McCarthy was fired, and replaced with Brian Schottenheimer. Brian is the son of a personal favorite of mine, the late, great Marty Schottenheimer.
Heading into the pre-season, this is how things look today:
QB: Much is expected of Dak Prescott (185 – 286 – 64.7 – 1978 – 11 – 8) but at 31 years old, coming back from a second major lower body surgery, those expectations may now be unfair. Even before his 2024 season ended, his record was 3 – 5, including 3 straight losses. He’d also thrown 5 TD’s against 6 interceptions in his last four starts. It’s too early to declare him washed, but he no longer belongs anywhere near discussions of being elite.
Gone is back-up Cooper Rush. Enter Joe Milton. He’s huge (6’5, 246), with good mobility and an extremely live arm. In fact, his high throwing velocity is the biggest knock against him. He lacks touch, so he rockets every throw, which can make him wildly inaccurate on short passes. That being said, the lad has some tools. (+)
RB: Free agent Javonte Williams is a reclamation project from the Broncos. He’s never rushed for 1,000 yards, and hasn’t broken a 25 yard run since 2021. Former Eagle Miles Sandersstill showed the ability to be explosive in 2024, but will he see enough work in 2025, to make a contribution? Hunter Luepke (12 – 38 – 3.2 – 0) is the unofficial FB.
Deuce Vaughn (17 – 70 – 4.1 – 0 – 0) hasn’t seen much action in two years, and at 176 pounds, it’s doubtful that he ever will. Rumor has it, that Dallas wants a thunder and lightning duo, between rookies Jaydon Blue a 5th rounder, and 7th rounder Phil Mafah. Both are one dimensional players. Dallas has five question marks and no answers here yet. (-)
WR: Ceedee Lamb (101 – 1194 – 11.8 – 6) was clearly hurt by the loss of his QB last year. Another thing that hurt him was a shoulder injury that worsened as the season went on, causing the Cowboys to shut him down, with two weeks left in the season. There’s been no indication of any further difficulty with the shoulder.
George Pickens (59 – 900 – 15.3 – 3) was traded from Pittsburgh. He’ll loosen coverage on Lamb and help clear out the box. The threat of him alone, upgrades the entire offense. Jalen Tolbert (49 – 610 – 12.4 – 7) will likely see his role reduced, with the addition of Pickens, but he’s a quality third. KaVontae Turpin (31 – 420 – 13.5 – 2) insists on being a real receiver, but his true value to Dallas is returning kicks (27 – 904 – 33.5 – 1). Jonathan Mingo (5 – 46 – 9.2 – 0) will likely round out the roster. (+)
TE: Jake Ferguson (59 – 494 – 8.4 – 0) should be able to produce more on the field, since opponents are usually focused on defending other players. Despite 59 catches, he produced no scores and just 18 first downs, in 2024. Luke Schoonmaker (27 – 241 – 8.9 – 1) was a 2nd round selection in 2023, but so far, has not been able to take the top spot from Ferguson.
Brevyn Spann-Ford (9 – 88 – 9.8 – 0) is a big target, but he’s a slow, lumbering runner. He won’t run many crisp routes, and offers little after the catch. There are also a couple of Special Teamers/camp bodies here. This position is practically a liability. (-)
OT: Last year LT Tyler Guyton struggled to the point of being benched. Instead of leaving him in the doghouse, the Dallas coaching staff worked with him in the offseason and they are so far pleased with what they’ve seen in OTA’s and early training camp. Terence Steele has started the last 34 games at RT. Though he’s not the greatest, he provides stability that can be built around.
Matt Waletzko, Dakoda Shepley, are experienced Cowboys back-ups, but that’s all they will ever be, barring injury. They are joined by free agent Hakeem Adeniji, who hasn’t been a starter since 2023 when he had 4 starts with the Vikings. There are a couple of late round picks down here, but no one on this bench, will ever develop into a regular starter anywhere. (+)
Rookie Guard Tyler Booker
G: With the retirement of perennial All-Pro Zack Martin, LG Tyler Smith takes over as the leader of the Cowboys offensive line. He’s been worlds better since he was moved inside in 2023. Even before OTA’s, 1st round pick Tyler Booker, was basically anointed the starter at RG. He’s a 1st rounder, but the NFL has a steep learning curve.
Depth is interesting. Saahdiq Charles comes over from division rival Washingtion, where he played OT. Not only has he changed teams, but also positions. Robert Jones comes over from Miami, where he started every game last year at LG. Both T.J. Bass and Asim Richards were Cowboys last year. Bass with three starts and Richards with one. So if Booker doesn’t pan out, there are plenty of veteran options. (+)
C: Cooper Beebe started 16 games as a rookie last year, which is an endorsement in itself. He leapfrogged Brock Hoffman, who has been with the team since 2022. There is nothing broken with this position, so the Cowboys made no move to fix it. (+)
In A Nutshell: There’s a line, some weapons, and QB who’s familiar with his supporting cast. They have the ingredients for a top ten unit. (+)
DEFENSE
Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs address the media during Cowboys training camp activities.
DE: If you go to the Cowboys website, Micah Parsons (43 – 12.0 – 0 – 0) is listed under this position. Some will want to argue that, but with Matt Eberflus hired to be the new defensive coordinator, we can’t be certain of what changes he has planned. Parsons has requested a trade over his contract situation, but as of when I hit ‘publish’, he was still on this roster.
Dante Fowler returns from Washington, where he had 10.5 sacks last year. Fowler hasn’t started double digit games since 2020, and Parsons’ could possibly end up sitting out games. So it’s a pretty strong bet that Dallas will have to lean heavily on their depth here.
Sam Williams is a 2022 2nd rounder, is coming back from an ACL tear, which robbed him of his 2024 season. Marshawn Kneeland a 2024 2nd rounder, is seen more as a run defender than a pass rusher. Payton Turner, a 2021 1st rounder, comes over from the Saints, with no career starts, but two long I.R. stints on his resume. Right now, there are no committed starters, and no back-up has any meaningful experience. (-)
DT: Mazi Smith (41 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) started every game last year and anchored the NFL’s 29th ranked run defense in yards allowed. He’s huge, but he tires quickly, and then gets pushed around easily. Osa Odighizuwa (47 – 4.5 – 0 – 0) posted career-highs in tackles and sacks, while starting every game for the third straight year. He’s disruptive, but undersized for the inside.
Solomon Jones comes over from the Jets. He’s played End most of his career, but he’s apparently being moved inside, because the Cowboys are paper thin there. Of his career 18.5 sacks, 8.5 have come in the last two years. They also have two rookie 7th rounders in Jay Toia and Tommy Akingbesote. Like I said. Paper thin. (-)
OLB: Donovan Ezeiruaku, rookie 1st rounder, was the 12th pick overall. So getting him on the field early, may be the reason why “others”, find themselves changing positions. Honestly, with Ezeiruaku’s body type, he might still line up with his hand in the dirt, quite a bit. Marist Liufau (50 – 1.5 – 0 – 1) will likely be the second starter, but with the new DC, it’s impossible to be sure.
DeMarvion Overshown (90 – 5.0 – 1 – 1) tore his ACL, PCL and MCL late last season, and will miss part of 2025. If he were healthy, he’d start over Liufau. James Houston is a recent signing, as pass rush insurance for the Parsons situation. The other three players at this position, probably won’t even make the Practice Squad. (-)
MLB: Kenneth Murray comes over from the Titans, in a bid to salvage his career as a starter. Already labeled as a 1st round bust for the Chargers, the Titans gave him a two year deal. Then they traded him for peanuts, after just one season. He’s athletic, and a hard hitter, and decent guy… The issue is his poor instincts when diagnosing plays. Yikes!
MLB Jack Sanborn in coverage
Jack Sanborn was a Bear for three years, and has played in Eberflus’s system. So it’s not a stretch that he could win the starting gig. But if he doesn’t, he’s great depth to have. Damone Clark started every game in 2023, but was demoted in 2024, with just two starts in fourteen games. Don’t be surprised if he’s the first ‘backer off the bench, inside or outside. (+)
S: Both Donovan Wilson (82 – 4.5 – 1 – 1) and Malik Hooker (81 – 0.0 – 2 – 0) started every game last season, and they’ll return as a tandem in 2025. Even with a new system being installed this should be an area of strength, because their communication will make it easier for them to digest the changes.
Markquese Bell (6 tackles), Juanyeh Thomas (14 tackles), and Israel Mukuamu (19 – 0.0 – 2 – 0) have all been Cowboys for at least two years. So all five of these players have been in two systems with each other, and can discuss where the similarities and differences are, in the incoming system. So they should be able to teach each other and adapt to it quickly. (+)
CB: Trevon Diggs (42 – 0.0 – 2 – 0) is coming back from 2024 cartilage damage in the same knee that he tore his ACL in, back in 2023. In the last two seasons, he’s played just 13 of a possible 34 games. Questions about his durability, and how much his athleticism is impacted, are legitimate at this point.
After losing Jourdan Lewis (Jaguars), DaRon Bland (41 – 0.0 – 0 – 1) will be the new starter. Can he regain the form he had before a stress fracture in his foot, took the first half of 2024 from him? Currently engaged in what will be expensive contract talks with him, the Cowboys will soon literally be banking (gambling) on it.
Josh Butler (21 – 1.0 – 0 – 0) started three games with the Cowboys, as a 28 year old rookie last year. He’s currently on their PUP list, as he’s rehabbing a torn ACL. In the 3rd round of the 2025 Draft, the Cowboys selected Shavon Revel. He is currently rehabbing a torn ACL and will not be available during Training Camp. Or for the start of the season. Oh, and Caelen Carson (27 – 0.0 – 0 – 0) the 2024 5th rounder who had five starts last year, is out for weeks with a hyperextended knee.
I am making NONE of this up.
So, just who is healthy? Kaiir Elam a former 1st round pick that Buffalo gave up on and traded to Dallas for basically a handful of pocket lint. (Actually, it was him and a 6th round pick, in exchange for a 5th and a 7th round pick.) The remaining six bodies at this position have a total of 1 career interception between them, and a combined 3 starts since 2023. (-)
In A Nutshell: How do you not bring in ANY serious help, for the 31st ranked defense?
SPECIAL TEAMS:
K: Brandon Aubrey (40/47 (85.1%), 30/30 (100%)) hit a 65 yarder to let NFL teams know, that if his team reaches the 50, he’s gonna be a problem. (+)
P: After boasting a 51.4 yard per punt average in 2023, Bryan Anger came back down to Earth with a 48.5 yard average in 2024. That number is almost perfectly in line with the 48.4 that he posted in his first two years as a Cowboy. His net punt however was down to 41.7 yards, his lowest as a Cowboy. Not awesome, but serviceable. (+)
In A Nutshell: The legs are reliable, and aren’t losing the field position game for this team.
The Cowboys GM be like…
BOTTOM LINE: The Cowboys are going to have to use the same formula as the Bengals to win. Every game will have to be a shoot-out, because defensively this team is trash. And that’s regardless of how the Parsons situation turns out. They went 3-3 in the division last season, this year will probably be 1-5, repeating their 7-10 mark from last year. If they stay healthy.
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