Eagles Training Camp Sizzles as Preseason Opener Approaches

Thursday's training session at the NovaCare Complex was marked by oppressive heat and humidity, yet the Eagles remained undeterred. With just a week until their preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, the team continued to push through the grueling conditions.

Players maintained focus despite the sweltering temperatures. Tight end Dallas Goedert emphasized that these challenging days serve a dual purpose: they enhance both physical conditioning and team chemistry. "When it's severe heat like this, you get tired a little bit faster and you got to push through," he remarked. "The good thing about football is we get to do it as a team. I feel like the tough days like today, when it's this hot, bring us closer together because we're all struggling out there together trying to fight through and give the best effort for the person next to you."

Among the most intense competitions this camp is at linebacker, where a blend of seasoned players and emerging talent is vying for spots. Nakobe Dean, recovering from a torn patellar tendon, was present on the field early Thursday. Rookie linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. noted Dean's role as a mentor, stating, "I be picking his brain a lot. To get here and to see how much he's learned the game, he's willing to give me as a younger guy in the room. Nakobe been great helping me out."

First-round pick Jihaad Campbell is another rookie making an impression, despite being limited due to offseason shoulder surgery. His athleticism has not gone unnoticed. Mondon commented on their shared playing style: "On the field, I feel like we have similarities to our game: both big backers. Athletic, can move around well."

Second-year cornerback Quinyon Mitchell expressed confidence in the potential of this young defensive unit, emphasizing the need for consistency and daily improvement. "We can be great, that's the expectation. But we just got to get better each and every day," Mitchell stated. "It's hot out here. We got to minimize mistakes and keep attacking the day."

On special teams, veteran kicker Jake Elliott weighed in on the NFL's recent rule change that will make the "dynamic kickoff" format permanent starting in 2025. A significant adjustment includes moving kickoff touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line. "We will definitely take a look at the preseason stuff and see what works and what doesn't and what we're comfortable with," Elliott explained.

Injury updates revealed that wide receiver DeVonta Smith and linebacker Zack Baun were sidelined due to ongoing lower back issues, while linebacker Nolan Smith remains in concussion protocol.

As anticipation builds for their preseason debut against the Bengals next week, the Eagles are navigating both position battles and the summer grind in South Philly.