The Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive performance dipped after two joint practices against the New England Patriots during training camp. Coaches Brooks Kubena and Zach Berman noted inconsistent passing plays and a lack of key receivers due to hamstring injuries.
Offensive Concerns
Kubena said the offense was “worse” after the joint sessions, citing a run game that was inconsistent on both days. While Elijah Moore scored a deep touchdown in Wednesday’s drills, explosive passing plays were scarce. Dontayvion Wicks showed separation in one-on-one drills but failed to produce big plays in red-zone and two-minute drills. DeVonta Smith and Makai Lemon had missed more than two weeks of practice with hamstring injuries, leaving the receiving corps thin.
Berman added that the overall picture was “about the same” but leaned slightly negative. He highlighted the Patriots’ status as defending AFC champions and noted that the Eagles were not expected to dominate. The secondary underperformed on Wednesday, though the pass rush was strong. The defense recovered on day two, but the passing game remained uncertain without Smith and Lemon.
Makai Lemon’s Return
Berman projected that Lemon could contribute during the first month of the season if he returned to full participation after the Eagles’ trip to New England. He would have three weeks of practice and be part of the Week 1 game-plan installation. However, he would not be a leading receiver; instead, he would play a top-three role at wide receiver.
Kubena compared Lemon’s draft position (No. 20 in 2023) to other high-draft picks such as Jaxon Smith-Njigba (No. 20 in 2022) and Brian Thomas Jr. (No. 23 in 2024). Lemon has two weeks of playbook installation to catch up and a four-week timetable for a significant impact, mirroring the path of Cooper DeJean who returned after a hamstring injury.
Jonathan Greenard’s Injury
Both coaches discussed the potential absence of Jonathan Greenard at the start of the season. Greenard suffered a pectoral injury during the offseason, raising concerns about his production in October or December. The Eagles could lean on Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt, but the team has not fielded a premier edge rusher under a multiyear contract since Haason Reddick.
Position Confidence
Kubena expressed the most confidence in defensive tackle, citing Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo as solid performers. He was least confident about wide receivers, noting the lack of consistent big-play ability from Hollywood Brown, Elijah Moore, and Dontayvion Wicks.
Berman echoed confidence in defensive tackle and added that cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, and Riq Woolen were strong. He was least confident about safety, with Drew Mukuba still proving himself and Marcus Epps as a solid veteran.
Key Takeaways
The joint practices against the Patriots exposed offensive inconsistencies, especially in the passing game. Lemon’s return will be crucial for the receiving corps, while Greenard’s injury could impact the pass-rushing unit. Defensive tackle remains the Eagles’ strongest position group, whereas wide receivers and safety are areas of concern heading into the regular season.
