Eagles Training Camp Insights: Right Guard Battle and Jahan Dotson's Versatility
The Philadelphia Eagles donned shorts and shells on Monday for Day 4 of their training camp at the NovaCare Complex, with full pads expected to make an appearance in Tuesday's practice.
Defensive tackle Jalen Carter returned to the field after a brief absence due to a shoulder injury. Limited participation was noted for linebacker Jihaad Campbell and offensive linemen Kenyon Green and Cam Jurgens.
Head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed Carter's return, stating, "He'll be out there today, so we're not going to get too much into injuries or anything like that. But he'll be out there today." The anticipation surrounding Carter's performance was palpable.
Wide receiver DeVonta Smith sat out due to back tightness, while rookie safety Andrew Mukuba also missed practice with a shoulder issue. Sirianni opted not to delve deeply into injury discussions at this stage of training camp.
With 10 of 11 starters returning, the Eagles face a significant competition at right guard following Mekhi Becton's departure in free agency. Tyler Steen, a third-round pick from Alabama in 2023, has consistently taken first-team reps at the position.
"I think I grew more last year than I did in my rookie year," Steen reflected. "Getting the opportunity to play and gain experience helped me build confidence going into this year."
Initially viewed as the frontrunner for the right guard spot, Steen's path was altered by an injury that opened the door for Becton last season, during which he started two games.
When asked about the competition for the right guard position, Sirianni emphasized, "Everything's a competition. We're evaluating the twos and the threes. As of right now, it's the same way we're evaluating the ones. Tyler's done a nice job so far and has worked in there with the ones through OTAs and as training camp has started right here. But we've got a lot of good pieces there."
Jahan Dotson, acquired from the Washington Commanders last August, recorded 19 catches for 216 yards during the regular season but made notable contributions in the playoffs, including a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers and a key play in the Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Dotson discussed his role this offseason, highlighting his versatility as a key asset. "I'm kind of the guy who can pretty much play everywhere," he stated. "Coming in late last year and learning the offense on the fly was crucial for me. I feel like I'm a guy you can throw anywhere—X, Y, Z, F—and I'm going to do my job. I'm going to make it happen. That's what the team has looked at me for: being kind of a spark plug if we need a play."
Entering camp as a likely No. 3 wideout for the Eagles, Dotson faces competition from newly signed Terrace Marshall Jr., who could challenge him on the depth chart as training camp progresses.
