Eagles Preseason Opener: Key Players to Watch Against Bengals

The Philadelphia Eagles are set to showcase a mix of familiar faces and emerging talent in their preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. While the Eagles return most of their starters from last season's Super Bowl run, several players are vying for crucial roster spots as the 2025 season approaches.

In contrast to the Eagles' strategy, the Bengals plan to field their starters, which could provide a significant test for Philadelphia's depth. Notably, the linebacker corps has been a focal point during training camp, with expectations running high.

Zack Baun, an All-Pro from 2024, is expected to anchor the unit. Meanwhile, Nakobe Dean, who had a breakout season last year, is recovering from an injury, leaving a starting position open on a defense that ranked first last season. Rookie Jihaad Campbell, a South Jersey native, is anticipated to step into a starting role if he can maintain his health after recovering from a torn labrum.

Campbell's participation in training camp has been promising, especially considering he missed the offseason program. If he takes the field against the Bengals, he will be a key player to watch. Second-year linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is also in contention for a starting spot alongside Baun, having shown significant improvement during camp after primarily contributing on special teams last season.

Rookie Smael Mondon Jr. is another name to keep an eye on as he prepares to fill Trotter Jr.'s previous role in 2025. The Eagles face a challenge at safety following the trade of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, with the position next to Reed Blankenship still up for grabs.

Andrew Mukuba and Sydney Brown are competing for the starting safety role, but neither has established a clear lead thus far. Mukuba's recent shoulder injury has limited his participation, and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio indicated that he might not be available for the game against Cincinnati. Brown, entering his third year with the team, is making strides under Fangio's guidance despite past injury issues.

With Mukuba likely sidelined, Tristin McCollum and Andre Sam will be critical players in the safety competition. The Eagles are also searching for another cornerback to complement Quinyon Mitchell on the outside. Recently acquired Jakorian Bennett from the Raiders adds depth to this position.

Kelee Ringo and veteran Adoree' Jackson are currently in a tight race for the starting cornerback job, with both players needing to step up against Cincinnati's formidable offense featuring Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase. Fangio has praised rookie Mac McWilliams but his injury status remains uncertain ahead of the game.

As for the wide receiver group, behind established stars A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, players like Elijah Cooks and Terrace Marshall are making their case for roster spots. Cooks, an undrafted free agent from San Jose State, had an impressive college career and is looking to build on his previous NFL experience. Marshall, a former second-round pick, has yet to meet expectations but has received positive feedback from Brown during camp.

Additionally, Johnny Wilson and Ainias Smith, both drafted in 2024, are also in contention for roster spots and may have an advantage due to their draft status with the Eagles.

On the defensive front, edge rushers Azeez Ojulari and Joshua Uche were brought in to bolster the pass rush after losing Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham. Both players have had quieter camps but have shown improvement recently. The Eagles may still consider adding a veteran edge rusher if they feel uncertain about their depth behind Nolan Smith and Jaylx Hunt.

Quarterback Tanner McKee has impressed as Jalen Hurts' backup since being drafted in 2023. Now, rookie Kyle McCord will have his opportunity to shine against the Bengals. A product of St. Joe's Prep and selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft from Syracuse, McCord is competing with Dorian Thompson-Robinson for the third-string quarterback position after Thompson-Robinson was acquired in a trade involving Kenny Pickett.