Eagles Rumors: Latest Buzz, Players to Watch from OTAs
After a jam-packed 2022 NFL offseason, Philadelphia Eagles fans are starting to get a taste of what the next iteration of the team is going to look like.
The Eagles posted a 9-8 record and a playoff appearance in Nick Sirianni's first year as head coach and will now look to build on that success. They'll have several new additions, including A.J. Brown, Haason Reddick and Jordan Davis, to take the team to the next level.
It's an exciting time for the franchise, but there are still many things that need to be figured out.
As the new faces start to learn Sirianni's system and build rapport with their new teammates, here's a look at three players and storylines to track at the conclusion of OTAs.
Jalen Hurts Looks Good; Needs to Work on Connection with A.J. Brown
Much of the Eagles' success this season is going to hinge on Jalen Hurts' improvement as a passer.
The team made it to the playoffs on the strength of the running game and his ability to impact the game with his legs. The next step for the quarterback and the team is an improved passing game.
Philadelphia made a big move to help in that regard by bringing in A.J. Brown.
There's good news on Hurts, too. Head coach Nick Sirianni told Sal Paolantonio of ESPN he has seen improvement in the way his quarterback is throwing the ball (h/t ESPN's Tim McManus).
His chemistry with Brown is going to take some time, though. McManus also noted the connection "needs some polishing" after the two had a few missed opportunities in practice.
That's not something to be alarmed about at the moment. It's still early June and there are months of preparation to go before the start of the season. The bit about Hurts throwing better is more important right now.
Isaach Seumalo Repping with Starters
The Philadelphia Eagles bring back a majority of one of the best offensive lines in football.
Jordan Mailata has solidified himself as the left tackle of the future, Lane Johnson is still a good right tackle, and Jason Kelce has elected to come back for a 12th NFL season.
Landon Dickerson also figures to slot in at left guard after a strong rookie season.
That leaves right guard as the lone position that doesn't have a concrete answer right now. According to Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports, Isaac Seumalo is "apparently getting the first crack at the right guard spot."
The 28-year-old was good in three starts for the team last season but was lost for the year to a foot injury. Jack Driscoll and rookie Cam Jurgens figure to be competition for the Oregon State product.
Driscoll has the flexibility to play some tackle as well, while Jurgens was most likely drafted as the eventual replacement for Kelce. For now, it appears they are playing second fiddle to Seumalo for the lone starting spot that could be up for grabs.
Nakobe Dean Emerging as Candidate for Green Dot
The green dot is a distinction that gets overlooked sometimes, but it's a significant responsibility. The sticker on the helmet signifies the player on the field who can receive radio communication from the coaching staff.
When coaching staffs are deciding who will don the dot, there are two major considerations: Their ability to understand and communicate adjustments and how often they will be on the field.
Through the early work of OTAs, third-round pick Nakobe Dean has apparently made a case to wear the dot.
Reuben Frank of NBC Sports reported the 21-year-old linebacker has "dazzled the Eagles’ coaches with his intelligence." Frank noted that he is learning both Mike and Will positions and seems to be taking them in stride.
In short, Dean not only brings the physical traits everyone saw at Georgia but he is also establishing himself as a trusted leadership candidate on the defense.