The Philadelphia Eagles report to NovaCare Complex on July 22 carrying the weight of championship expectations — and the challenge of replacing key defensive departures. With significant turnover on defense and a new offensive coordinator, this training camp will determine whether the Eagles can maintain their championship standard or succumb to the historical difficulty of repeating.
The Eagles lost seven defensive starters from their championship team, including pass rushers Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham, cornerbacks Darius Slay and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and defensive tackle Milton Williams. But they retained their offensive foundation led by Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts, 2,000-yard rusher Saquon Barkley, and the NFL’s best offensive line. First-round pick Jihaad Campbell headlines a rookie class tasked with immediate contributions, while new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo aims to evolve the record-setting offense that averaged 180.8 rushing yards per game.
Training Camp and Preseason Schedule
Players report to NovaCare Complex on July 22, with all practices held at the South Philadelphia facility. The three-week camp builds toward a challenging preseason slate crucial for evaluating roster battles.
Preseason Schedule:
Aug. 7 vs. Cincinnati Bengals, 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 16 vs. Cleveland Browns, 1 p.m.
Aug. 22 at New York Jets, 7:30 p.m.
Key Position Battles to Watch
Right Guard Competition Highlights Offensive Questions
Tyler Steen enters as the favorite after taking first-team reps during OTAs, with center Cam Jurgens publicly endorsing his readiness. However, Kenyon Green, Matt Pryor, and rookie Trevor Keegan remain in contention.
Edge Rusher Depth Brings Uncertainty
Jalyx Hunt and Azeez Ojulari headline the competition opposite Nolan Smith. Hunt’s late-season rise and playoff impact earned praise, while Ojulari brings proven production despite injury concerns. Josh Uche adds veteran depth but faces consistency questions.
Linebacker Depth Tested Early
Jihaad Campbell’s shoulder surgery clouds his camp status, while Jeremiah Trotter Jr. took first-team reps this spring. Rookie Smael Mondon Jr. and the injured Nakobe Dean leave the depth chart thin entering camp.
Secondary Reshuffle After Veteran Losses
Kelee Ringo and Adoree’ Jackson will compete for Darius Slay’s vacated role. At safety, rookie Andrew Mukuba battles Sydney Brown, whose coming off minimal appearances in 2024 after recovering from an ACL tear.
Projected Starting Lineup Outlook
Offense Anchored by Core Stars
Hurts, Barkley, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith lead a championship-caliber offense. The line remains elite outside of right guard, with Jordan Mailata, Landon Dickerson, Jurgens, and Lane Johnson all returning. Dallas Goedert remains at tight end after avoiding trade rumors .
Defensive Youth Movement in Full Effect
Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo anchor a young defensive line. Nolan Smith and Zack Baun lead the linebackers, while Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean headline a revamped secondary. Reed Blankenship serves as the lone veteran starter in the defensive backfield.
Players and Storylines That Matter
Rookies with Instant Expectations
Campbell’s health is key as he eyes a starting role. Mukuba brings starting-caliber traits, and sixth-rounder Kyle McCord surprisingly leads the QB3 race over Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
Breakout Candidates to Watch
Hunt’s late rise and Ojomo’s pass rush upside position them for expanded roles. Ringo’s size and potential make him a player to watch in a crowded secondary.
Newcomers Chasing Immediate Impact
Ojulari brings sack potential if healthy. A.J. Dillon’s comeback bid will shape the backfield depth. Jackson’s veteran presence offers low-risk upside at corner.
Roster Bubble Battles Heating Up
Offensive Depth Under Scrutiny
Thompson-Robinson trails McCord at QB. Green needs a strong camp to justify his salary. Receiver spots are up for grabs between Terrace Marshall and Ainias Smith.
Defensive Depth Chart Shuffles
Uche must prove his pass-rushing value. Tristin McCollum and Lewis Cine face uphill battles for backup safety spots.
Coaching Changes and System Continuity
Patullo Inherits Championship Offense
Patullo’s promotion maintains system continuity, with his familiarity with Hurts easing the transition. His challenge is evolving the league’s top rushing attack without losing efficiency.
Fangio Returns to Lead Defensive Continuity
Fangio’s experience anchors a young defense entering Year 2 of his system. Coaching continuity and player familiarity provide a rare advantage for a defending champion.
Championship Obstacles and Opportunities
History Isn’t on Their Side
Only nine teams have repeated as Super Bowl champions. The NFC East hasn’t had a repeat division winner in 20 years. Barkley’s 482 touches raise durability questions, and a brutal schedule features 10 playoff teams. These are all things that a true championship contender need to overcome in order to repeat.
Competitive Edge Remains Strong
The Eagles have the infrastructure, talent, and experience to chase back-to-back Super Bowl titles — but historical precedent shows the path is anything but easy. This training camp will reveal whether Philadelphia’s championship culture can withstand roster turnover, injury questions, and relentless expectations at NovaCare Complex.