The Philadelphia Eagles have made their final roster cuts in preparation for the upcoming regular season, which is just around the corner. As the anticipation builds, let’s delve into some questions about the team and the upcoming season. This is Part II of a mailbag series, with Part I available for those who missed it.
Question from @barackchain: One player to overperform expectations, one player to underperform?
Watching Nakobe Dean during training camp, it’s clear he has the potential to surprise many who may have underestimated him. However, history has shown that standout performances during summer practices don’t always translate to success in the regular season. Dean’s challenge will be to maintain his level of play and stay healthy. On the flip side, Bryce Huff, with a hefty salary of $17 million per year, faces the pressure of proving his worth. Fan expectations for Mekhi Becton, on the other hand, might be overly optimistic given the challenges he may face adjusting to a new position.
Question from @Footba11Joe: Who are the two starting inside linebackers for Brazil, and who will start the most games by season’s end?
Devin White, Zack Baun, and Nakobe Dean will likely see significant playing time, depending on the game plan devised by Vic Fangio and Bobby King. The starting lineup may vary based on the opponent’s offensive schemes. While Dean showcased a strong performance during training camp, the dynamics of the team may evolve over the course of the season.
Question from @twitrunner8: What young defensive player not named Jalen Carter do you think has a chance to make the biggest impact?
Quinyon Mitchell’s tenacity and skillset make him a promising candidate to make an immediate impact on the defense. With his versatility to play both outside and inside positions, Mitchell is poised to take on a significant role as a rookie. The Eagles seem confident in his abilities and are eager to see him rise to the occasion.
Question from @ChrisLuvGoBirds: Who is going to have a better NFL career – Nolan Smith or Jalyx Hunt?
Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt are intriguing prospects with differing trajectories. While Smith was once considered a steal in the late first round but failed to impress in his rookie season, Hunt has shown promise and confidence during training camp. Hunt’s potential for success appears to be on the rise, making him a player to watch as he kickstarts his NFL career.
Question from @hubie1182: How concerned are you that Jordan Davis isn’t elite and is maybe more of a Linval Joseph than a game changer?
Jordan Davis’s performance as a run defender has been commendable, but concerns linger about his consistency and development as a pass rusher. While his physical attributes are exceptional, he has yet to showcase a diverse skillset that sets him apart as a game-changing player. The Eagles will be looking for Davis to elevate his game and fulfill his immense potential.
Question from @ChipReiderson: Tio Jimmy, reverence as always. Am I foolish to be concerned that the Eagles are doubling down on a defensive system that may have been figured out by opposing teams?
The league’s familiarity with Vic Fangio’s defensive strategies has led to mixed results among his disciples who have assumed defensive coordinator roles. While adjustments may need to be made, the Eagles’ defensive scheme could benefit from strategic revisions to stay ahead of the competition. It will be intriguing to see how Fangio adapts to address these challenges and keep the defense effective.
Question from @DaveFash2: Who gives the Eagles the best chance to run the offense effectively – Kenny Pickett or Tanner McKee?
While Kenny Pickett brings mobility to the quarterback position, Tanner McKee’s passing prowess adds depth to the offensive playbook. Pickett’s agility makes him a threat on the field, but McKee’s proficiency in downfield passing could offer a more versatile approach to running the offense. The Eagles will need to assess the strengths of each quarterback to optimize their offensive strategy.
Question from @ftandru: Who is more likely to catch a pass this year – Ben VanSumeren or Albert Okwuegbunam?
Ben VanSumeren has hinted at a potential role on offense, signaling a possible shift in his involvement with the team. Meanwhile, Albert Okwuegbunam, though a mainstay on the roster, has yet to make an impact in the passing game. While both players have potential, Albert O.’s tenure with the Eagles could see him becoming a more prominent target for passes this season.
Question from @DrewSportsNews: If you could pick 5 NFL teams with a shot at winning the Super Bowl, who would they be?
My top five picks for Super Bowl contenders would be the Chiefs, 49ers, Ravens, Lions, and Bills, with the Bengals and Eagles following closely behind. These teams boast the talent and depth needed to make a serious run at the championship.
Question from @BadgerVMD: How valid is the criticism that Howie Roseman focuses on acquiring players with name value rather than talent?
While criticism of Howie Roseman’s player acquisition strategy may surface, his track record reflects a diverse selection of talent from various sources. From draft picks hailing from smaller programs to rookies stepping up in pivotal roles, Roseman has demonstrated an eye for talent beyond traditional scouting norms. While questions may arise, his approach seems to yield results that transcend the notion of name recognition.