In the NFL, training camp and the preseason games are for evaluation, not judgment. So after two weeks of camp and on the eve of the first preseason game, let’s make some evaluations:
The Eagles finished third in the league in points scored last season, with 28.6 points a game. And this year’s offense looks like it can keep the same pace, putting pressure on opposing defenses – if some things fall into place.
Right now, beyond the quarterback position, which is in a state of flux, the two biggest question marks are wide receiver and running back.
Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, who had nine touchdown catches last year, is still rehabbing after off-season shoulder surgery. He hasn’t taken a snap all spring or summer. He’s coming along, but no telling when he will see the field. A big off-season acquisition, veteran wide out Mike Wallace, has looked up and down in camp.
With LaGarrette Blount in Detroit, gone are his 173 rushing attempts. Those are big shoes to fill. Jay Ajayi and Corey Clement are going to share the extra workload. That will be asking a lot. Both look to be in great shape. But this is a long season.
If I were Doug Pederson, I wouldn’t put them on the field in the pre-season until either Nick Foles or Carson Wentz are under center. They don’t need the work, and there is no way you want to risk injury to either one.
