What are Carson Wentz’ chances of playing on Sept. 6?
By Dave Spadaro
The next step is training camp, which begins in late July in South Philadelphia. Between now and then, Eagles players and coaches scatter throughout the United States and breathe in life before they get back to the everyday grind of the NFL life. We’ve got five weeks to discuss, debate and dust off conversations about the Eagles and their chances to repeat as Super Bowl champions in 2018.
You’ve got questions? Same here. In time, we’ll get some answers. For now, it sure doesn’t hurt to ask …
What Are Carson Wentz’s Chances Of Playing On Sept. 6?
By the time the Eagles ended their spring workouts, quarterback Carson Wentz was cleared for seven-on-seven portions of practice as well as other aggressive movements in and out of the pocket in the offense. His progress has been astonishing and extremely promising. Barring a setback, Wentz is going to look really great as we get into August, and then it becomes a matter of him being cleared by the medical staff for on-field, live-game action. The possibility exists, absolutely. But we’re not really going to know until just before the regular season begins.
How Are The Other Injured Eagles Coming Along?
There is more good news here. Left tackle Jason Peters looked outstanding in the spring as his on-field movements and practice reps increased. He should be good to go very soon in training camp.
Middle linebacker Jordan Hicks, a huge key, has made great progress and expects to be fine for the season. Defensive end Brandon Graham had surgery to clean out an ankle injury and is on pace for the regular season. Defensive tackle Tim Jernigan had back surgery and still has a ways to go, but he’s gained the weight he dropped and September certainly seems within reach.
What About The Eagles Raises Concern?
There isn’t much depth at linebacker, across the board, so if Hicks can’t come all the way back or there is another injury, the Eagles will be challenged there. The safety depth isn’t experienced, but the Eagles may bring back veteran Corey Graham before too long. He was a valuable backup last season. The punter is Cameron Johnston, who has never done it in the NFL. Defensive tackle, with Jernigan still rehabbing, and Haloti Ngata up there in age, has some questions.
Just What Are The Prospects For This Team?
The Eagles have the best roster they’ve maybe ever had in terms of depth throughout the depth chart and high-end stars sprinkled throughout. The prospects, then, are that the Eagles will go into the season as one of the favorites to win the Super Bowl. It’s deserved. The Eagles are loaded and will be even more so should Wentz show that he’s all the way back early in the season.
Who Are Some Players I Don’t Know Much About?
Mike Wallace is a new starter at one wide receiver position and he’s fast, explosive and personable on and off the field. Corey Nelson, another player signed in free agency after four years in Denver, could start at the weak-side linebacker position. Keep an eye on new running back Matt Jones, a power runner to potentially complement Jay Ajayi and Corey Clement. Second-year man Sidney Jones is expected to be a factor at cornerback.
The waiting is the hardest part, right. Should be worth it, though. The Eagles are gunning for more history this season with a terrific roster that is deep and talented. ••
