Let’s Get Physical

Posted: August 2nd, 2017 | Author: | Filed under: Philadelphia Eagles | 106 Comments »

Tuesday’s practice brought some actual tackling into Training Camp for the first time. Coaches have a tough balancing act. They want to get their players ready for real football, but also fear getting players hurt. Doug Pederson believes that some tackling is needed to prepare his guys for both the preseason and regular season. Football, after all, is a contact sport (Unless you prefer the description of former player and coach Bill Curry. He said dancing is a contact sport. Football is a collision sport.).

Let’s get to some of the highlights.

Here is Fran Duffy on Tim Jernigan.

10. The real star for me in the live periods, however, was Tim Jernigan. He made a huge stop where he split a double team in the first series, but he saved his best for the last period of the day. On the third snap for the first-team defense, Jernigan defeated a block and made a stop of Marshall at the line of scrimmage, screaming, “Let’s go,” with excitement as he got off the ground. Two plays later, he once again split a double team and worked himself free to make a play in the run game. On the next rep after that, the offense ran his way and he again engulfed the running back and threw him to the ground at the line. Jernigan has proven to be one of the toughest to block in pass protection drills, and when the team went live he was outstanding against the run. – FD

No one disputes the fact that Bennie Logan was a good player for the Eagles. The problem is that he wasn’t as disruptive as Jim Schwartz wants a DT to be. Jernigan has that skill set and has shown it off this summer. The best part of Fran’s notes is that Jernigan was winning in different ways. He wasn’t beating a rookie in 1-on-1’s. He used quickness and strength. He split double teams a couple of times. That is a DT who can penetrate and make plays, just what the Eagles needed up front.

With Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith out, some receiver had to step up. Bryce Treggs did just that.

3. Treggs waited until the middle of practice to get going, but his plays came in a flurry. On a fourth-and-1 pass that he caught right at the sticks, Treggs made the catch, made two men miss, and picked up the first down. A couple of plays later, Treggs took an end around for a first down against the starting defensive unit. Shortly after that, he caught a pass from McGloin on a crossing route for another first down, this time in tight coverage between linebacker Najee Goode and safety Rodney McLeod. – FD

It is easy to overlook Treggs with the rookies making plays and Nelson Agholor coming to life, but remember that Treggs played last year and showed NFL ability. His speed is legit. Treggs has an uphill battle to make the team, but he’s got enough speed and experience that he can’t be ignored.

*****

Jimmy Bama focused on RBs.

The standout of the day was second-year running back Wendell Smallwood. Yesterday, in our first 53-man roster projection of camp, we noted that Smallwood could be pushed for the fourth running back spot by undrafted rookie Corey Clement.

Undrafted rookie Corey Clement has looked good at times and could push Smallwood for that fourth running back spot. I think the preseason games are likely to determine if Clement deserves a roster spot over Smallwood.

Running backs LeGarrette Blount(personal reasons) and Donnel Pumphrey (hamstring) were both out today, and Darren Sproles did not participate in the live sessions. As a result, Smallwood ran with the first team offense, and he helped himself bigly, as he rattled off several long runs during the live periods, often finishing his runs with authority.

His highlight of the day came on a run around the left side in which he absolutely trucked safety Terrence Brooks, who is built like a house. Late in practice, Smallwood once again had a long run around the left edge for about a 20-yard score.

Running backs are tough to evaluate in practices other than these live tackling sessions. Today, Smallwood looked hungry. Very encouraging day.

A few people have questioned Smallwood this spring/summer. I don’t get it. Smallwood didn’t have some great rookie year, but he showed legit NFL talent. I’m glad he had a strong day. I think some people were too down on him. Smallwood had a much better rookie year than Brian Westbrook did. I’m not saying Smallwood is anywhere close to the level of player Westbrook was, but I think Ezekiel Elliott’s success may have affected people and their expectations for a rookie RB. Zeke was a freak. Smallwood ran for 312 yards and returned a KO for a TD. There is nothing wrong with that from a 5th round pick who was the #3 RB for his team. 

Corey Clement had a nice day as well. He ran through tackle attempts by Tim Jernigan, Kamu Grugier-Hill, and Najee Goode. I will note, however that Clement does not look comfortable catching the football. Over his career at Wisconsin, Clement had just 29 receptions and was often not in the game at all in third-and-long situations. He’ll need to improve there if he wants a role in a west coast offense.

I’m interested to see how Clement plays in the preseason. He’s in terrific shape now and that will help him, but I want to see how his athleticism translates to the NFL. And Jimmy is right about his need to catch the ball.

Let’s hope Smallwood and Clement push each other and they have a good battle for the next month. My money is still on Smallwood.

*****

Here is a bit more on Smallwood from Fran Duffy.

8. In 9-on-7 action, Wendell Smallwood stepped in as the starter for LeGarrette Blount, and cut back against the grain on the first play for a long run. Defensive tackle Tim Jernigan exploded into the backfield on the play, forcing Smallwood to cut back sooner than he would have wanted, but it was a great run by the second-year back. The next run went to the right side, but it was blocked up perfectly this time by the offensive line as Smallwood was left with just Watkins in the flat to make the stop.

And

9. In the first live period of the day, the Eagles’ offense would strike first with a swing screen to Smallwood down the right sideline. The down-the-field blocker for Smallwood was none other than Jason Kelce, who looked like the rare athlete that he is at the center spot as he released down the right sideline and helped escort the ball carrier for what seemed like a 30-plus-yard gain. On the first play of the second live period, the same two players were involved, with Smallwood taking a handoff and sprinting down the left sideline. Kelce was used as a puller on that play and he melted Rasul Douglas in the flat to help spring Smallwood. It should be noted that Douglas, who has consistently battled through his worst plays and responded with a strong rep, came up with an interception against Wentz on the very next play where he cut off a pass intended for Johnson. – FD

Don’t overlook Smallwood’s burst and ability to create big plays. The Eagles talked about that when they drafted him.

*****

Jeff McLane offered interesting nuggets on some young players.

  1. But the first team offense rebounded against the second unit on their final possession. Wentz first hit Johnson for a quickie. He then found the skying Ertz. Short passes to Agohlor and Jordan Matthews netted little. Cornerback C.J. Smith’s tackling on the former’s catch was textbook. He’s a dark horse candidate to win a starting spot. Wentz then tossed a beauty to Matthews, who had a half-step on slot corner Aaron Grymes, but the ball deflected off his hands. Ertz then caught two in a row before Smallwood found a crease off the left, shook the converging Steven Means, and ran into the end zone. Wentz hit Ertz for the two-point conversion to end the day.

He says C.J. Smith is a dark horse to win a starting spot. That’s interesting. Smith has been somewhat under the radar this summer. Smith was that way last year as well. I think the preseason games really brought out the best in him. Clearly nothing is set at corner right now so we’ll see if Smith is a player who takes advantage of that.

  1. Pederson eased his troops into team drills with a “thud” period. With Jeffery and Smith sidelined, Carson Wentz’s top two outside receivers were Nelson Agholor and Marcus Johnson. The quarterback had a few misfires to tight end Zach Ertz and Agholor, but he tossed an exquisite deep ball to Johnson that went for a “touchdown.” Johnson, who’s on my 53-man roster at this point, toasted cornerback Patrick Robinson. It’s important to take competition into account when assessing the Eagles in camp. Did that big play say more about Johnson’s ascension or about Robinson’s struggles? The veteran corner hasn’t been consistent enough. But Johnson has earned his move up the depth chart. He’s currently ahead of rookies Mack Hollins and Shelton Gibson.

McLane says Marcus Johnson is on his projected roster as of now. I can’t argue with that. Johnson has had a terrific offseason and I don’t know if the Eagles could get him on the practice squad. How weird is it to see so many receivers stepping up this year when last year was such a clusterfudge. Crazy.

*****

Quick, random stuff from Brandon Lee Gowton.

• McGloin has been about what you’d expect out of a backup of his caliber. He’s had some nice throws, though, such as a ball to Matthews he placed in a tight window between two defenders along the sideline.

• C.J. Smith broke up a McGloin pass on a curl route. Keep an eye on Smith in the cornerback battle.

• The Eagles’ new starting left guard has some nasty in him. Isaac Seumalo straight up drove Derek Barnett into the ground as the rookie tried to get around him. Loved that play.

• Terrence Brooks made at least one standout play in practice every day. Today he ripped the ball out of Ertz’s hands after the tight end caught a pass over the middle. Forced incompletion. He’s playing too well for the Eagles to not mix him in to the safety rotation.

• Bryce Treggs had a nice day for himself. The second-year receiver made some tough catches, including a grab along the sideline. He also looked fast on a jet sweep that went for at least 10 yards or so.

• Steven Means recorded a “sack” by pushing Matt Tobin back into the quarterback. Means got a fistful of Dane Evans’ jersey to end the play.

Sometimes quick hitters like that are the best.

*****

https://twitter.com/MikeTanier/status/892389595337424897

_

106 Comments on “Let’s Get Physical”

  1. 1 Charlie Kelly said at 1:37 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Timmy J, looking legit!!

  2. 2 Will Defence Win Championship said at 2:45 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I knew the day we got him the difference he could make next to Cox if they both stay healthy… This team is stacked every where but CB…Ron Brooks is the key…That guy has to play all 16 games or we are back to Jenkins manning the slot which limits our Defense further…We need CB’s …. http://www.nj.com/eagles/index.

  3. 3 RobNE said at 4:49 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    so SB win but might not be a blowout? I’ll take it.

  4. 4 Anders said at 2:26 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    The big thing will be if we are willing to pay Jernigan if he has a big year. Consider we paid quite a lot for 1 season, its seems reasonable to think we will pay him (give him Curry’s money)

  5. 5 Guy Media said at 6:47 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Sliding Curry’s money right across into Jernigan would be perfect.

  6. 6 Ark87 said at 11:45 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Good points, it does seem like we are likely to pay him. If there is one place on the defense Schwartz would want the front office to splurge on it would probably be DL. Seems like his entire defense is built around getting pressure with a 4 man rush. Which could mean bargain-bin Corners for the foreseeable future, or hoping to hit jackpot in the draft.

  7. 7 Will Defence Win Championship said at 2:50 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    They should sign Kerigan to a long term deal he is the real McCoy to free up Cox…

  8. 8 Fufina said at 4:59 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Musings on 2018 cap situation.

    We have 3 significant free agents next year in Jernigan, Matthews, Jeffery. We also have fringe starters// roleplayers that we may want to keep or replace with comparable players in Beau Allen, Bradham, Watkins and Blount.

    So how much cap space is do we have in 2018?…. $1.1mill!?!?!

    Now that number is a little #FakeNews, since you have 2017 cap to roll over as well, meaning you can add whatever is left over this year – $8.9mil currently and add it to 2018.

    Currently is important since that $8.9mil number should change with cuts, with Ryan Mathews and 3rd/4th year guys like Tobin, Thomas, Hart and Andrews being cut an ‘replaced’ with cheaper rookie contracts. That should free up another $4-5mil by the end of training camp (although this may be 1-2mil less if they have to give a significant injury settlement to Ryan Mathews).

    So without any significant roster moves we should have about $12-$14mil next year. So what cuts/trades are possible in the next 9months to free up more $$$.

    Kendricks is the most interesting place to start, since he has asked to be cut/traded and seems to be a very expensive roll player. Cutting him in 2018 saves the Eagles $4.4mil in 2018.Cutting/trading Kendricks this year only saves $1.8mil in cap in 2017, but far more in 2018, with trading/cutting him saving an additional $4.85mil total over the 2 years, giving total $9.25mil extra cap in 2018 if we trade/cut Kendricks now, against keeping him on the roster in 2018. So why is he not gone already? I suspect that has to do with Bradhams likely coming suspension, and only having paper thin depth after him. I wouldn’t be surprised if the suspension is only 1-2 games that the Eagles trade/cut Kendricks before roster cut downs. If the suspension is longer they may look to keep him and then trade/cut midseason, reducing the amount of $$ saved but still freeing up significant cash.

    There are no other ‘big’ cuts/trades i could see happening this season, so looking at next year, there are a range of candidates
    – cutting/retiring Celek could save $4mil
    – cut/trading Kelce could save $6mil
    – cutting Brooks could save $2.1mil
    – cutting/trading Curry could save $5.5mil
    -Jason Peters retiring could save $5.3mil

    So if we cut/trade Kendricks before the season, cut Mathews as expected, and moved on from Celek/Kelce/Brooks next year that would give about $33mil in cap space in 2018, which would be plenty to bring back our key free agents and roll plays and maybe even adding a CB.

    Keeping Kendricks this year, and cutting in 2018, and keeping Kelce in 2018 would bring this down to $22mil, which would probably be enough to keep 2 of the big 3 free agents and 2-3 roll players if you handed out decent signing bonuses.

    So i guess my conclusion is this – the cap situation next year looks pretty grim initially on paper, but as is often the case with Howie, even without making aggressive moves we should have plenty to do business next year, and if the team decides to be more aggressive could have a huge amount of cap space next year if they want it.

  9. 9 Anders said at 5:54 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Why would you move on from Brooks? Yea lets cut pro bowl caliber OG who will only be 28 next year for 2.1 in savings?

  10. 10 Guy Media said at 6:49 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Ron Brooks.

  11. 11 Anders said at 6:51 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Makes more sense now.

  12. 12 Will Defence Win Championship said at 2:27 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    yea kick the one player who can play the slot besides Jenkins real smart if he gets hurt this year the secondary is truly screwed…

  13. 13 Guy Media said at 6:49 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Getting every last penny back from Ryan Mathews is a must. They need to get a doctor to clear him; soon.

    And I’m not trying to read anything about keeping Kelce another year.

  14. 14 or____ said at 7:34 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Respectfully,there is literally zero reason to support the words need or soon in your post there, other than your own impatience.

  15. 15 Guy Media said at 8:10 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Yogi Berra told us it ain’t over til it’s over, so I don’t trust we’ll get every dollar back we’re entitled to with Mathews until we’ve got every dollar back. I need finality, not trust.

  16. 16 ChoTime said at 7:49 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Dude, why do you care so much about Lurie’s money? Guy broke his neck playing football for this team, and ran hard.

  17. 17 eagleyankfan said at 7:55 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I don’t see Matthews as significant. Matthews is ok. After 1 day of hitting, I’m not on the “omg, we have great wr’s” train either. If we stay with the theme that veterans play as expected, AJ and Jernigan will not be replaceable without a major step backwards in talent. If we lost Matthews today, the offense won’t miss a beat.

  18. 18 Guy Media said at 8:09 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I’m still praying we can trade Mattews before the season for something of value rather than losing him for nothing this off-season. I really can’t stomach paying a slot-only player in excess of $8 mil / year over 4 or 5 years.

  19. 19 Guy Media said at 6:42 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I’m reading Jerningan’s name WAY too much for the conclusion to be anything other than Kelce still sucks.

  20. 20 Anders said at 6:43 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Most of the time its DL1 vs OL2 so Jernigan is not going against Kelce

  21. 21 Guy Media said at 6:45 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    You’re missing the point; I could be reading Mitt Pitts or Sam Rayburn practice notes and the conclusion would still be that Kelce sucks. In fact, I can’t think of any games they’d lose this year that won’t be 100% the fault of Kelce and Kencricks.

  22. 22 Anders said at 6:50 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    What about Mathews fumbling or Matthews hands?

  23. 23 Guy Media said at 6:52 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    If Mathews is still on this team fumbling, I’d more blame Howie for not finding the right doctor to cut / clear Mathews; yesterday.

    If Matthews is still dropping passes, I’d blame Pederson for playing him and/or Howie for not getting him traded when we aren’t going to sign him into 2018 and beyond. But I can’t work up any hate for J Matt (due to him only being on a rookie deal) like I can for thieves like Kendricks and Kelce.

  24. 24 or____ said at 7:32 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    To Mike, that was Kelce’s fault.

  25. 25 Guy Media said at 7:33 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    No, I addressed that already. Any fumbles on snaps are Kelce’s fault however.

  26. 26 Guy Media said at 6:45 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    And thank you for the clarification.

  27. 27 Corry said at 6:59 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    At this point, Patrick Robinson’s roster spot could go to orange cone. Robinson has a slight edge in that he has arms and legs, but other than that, I think orange cone is pretty much on par with the veteran.

  28. 28 Guy Media said at 7:00 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I saw somebody call him Reuben Randall 2.0; that ain’t far off. I’m not going to get overly judgmental on Robinson until I see him vs. 1s in pre-season game, but it isn’t looking good right now.

  29. 29 A Roy said at 11:32 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Trash can occupies significantly more space…harder to get off the initial block at the LOS.

  30. 30 Corry said at 11:43 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Trash can is scrappy but I think is more of a nickel corner than an outside guy.

  31. 31 or____ said at 7:37 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I’m so sick of the corner hate. Zero passes have been completed by opposing WRs so far. I’m not ignoring things or saying I have total confidence any any of ours, but it’s already getting old.

  32. 32 Guy Media said at 8:07 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    You get what you pay for with this group. They’re trying to make it work this year because they couldn’t pump unlimited capital into every position; this isn’t baseball. We all know these dudes are limited, but once Jones is back to playing like the best corner in the draft and he’s paired with CBs 2 through 4; we’ll be fine.

  33. 33 Bert's Bells said at 8:46 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    The Eagles have paid a lot in the past for corner, and gotten little in return.

    If you want to use an economic model it’s the central problem of limited resources. There isn’t the corner talent on the job market to fit the needs of 32 teams. This is compounded by a system (the NFL rule book) that has made the position increasingly difficult.

  34. 34 Dave said at 10:17 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Add in the fact that each team really needs 3 solid cornerbacks and the cupboard becomes really bare. It really let’s you know how fortunate the Eagles were with Troy, Bobby, and Al Harris.

  35. 35 Stephen E. said at 10:35 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    And Lito, Sheldon, and whoever manned the slot. Didn’t really matter, because whoever caught it there would be laid out by Trotter or Dawk anyway.

  36. 36 or____ said at 11:08 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Ha ROD HOOD

  37. 37 Bert's Bells said at 12:11 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Mmmbop

  38. 38 Will Defence Win Championship said at 1:52 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    at least 4, you need a quality back up that is crossed trained in all positions…which makes it even tougher for the Eagles who need 3 player’s to pair with Brooks…

  39. 39 Dave said at 6:59 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Or 3 good safeties with one that can play in the slot.

  40. 40 or____ said at 9:58 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Indeed. But until then, we are going to get daily if not hourly complaints that “Patrick Robinson isn’t playing like Patrick Peterson! Something went terribly wrong. Panic Panic!”.

  41. 41 Will Defence Win Championship said at 1:53 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Robinson is pure garbage hate to break it to you…

  42. 42 or____ said at 1:57 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Based off of a sample size of zero, I’d say you are jumping to conclusions.

  43. 43 Will Defence Win Championship said at 2:00 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    who the number one pick of years ago who has been kicked around the NFL not even gonna bother mentioning his inability to stay heathy and on the field…and when he does it’s not pretty…

  44. 44 or____ said at 2:03 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Got you. Players never improve, change on team, system, coach, never changes anything.

    Let’s just forfeit the season.

  45. 45 ChoTime said at 7:37 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    We got it. Sarcasm.

  46. 46 Tom33 said at 1:14 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Hard to argue. Eagles are #32 in the league in CB spending with a total cap hit of $5.7 million over 9 players for 2017. Or roughly what A.J. Bouye’s cap hit is for this year as the 27th highest player at that position.

    http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/positional/cornerback/

    Hopefully a couple of the young guys can pan out and play decent this year and Jones recovers 100% next year and can be a #1 corner.

  47. 47 knighn said at 8:30 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0b3411fea9003e086361c2abacbe016d6a2cbe858937a06880ac49b76fe71b0d.jpg

  48. 48 ReagansReanimatedCorpse said at 9:39 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I hope Smallwood does take a step. His running wasn’t really a problem last year, it was his pass blocking that kept him off the field. If you can’t protect Wentz you’re not going to stay in the game. If he improves that aspect and gets some more reps he could easily surprise some people.

  49. 49 Gary Barnes said at 10:00 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    How is Grymes doing at CB? I had high hopes for him, but have rarely read his name in any of these reports. Is he standing out as one of the better CB options?

  50. 50 Dave said at 10:10 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I agree, It seems all we are hearing about is how bad Robinson is doing.

  51. 51 RogerPodacter said at 10:43 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    we haven’t been hearing much about Smith or Grymes, have we? have they not been practicing as much?
    assuming they are out there just as much as Robinson, its gotta be a good sign for them that we don’t hear their names much,,,

  52. 52 Dave said at 12:03 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Update, looks like Smith is getting some good press…

    http://theeagleswire.usatoday.com/2017/08/02/eagles-cb-c-j-smith-settles-in-as-he-takes-reps-with-first-team/

  53. 53 RogerPodacter said at 4:32 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    jimmyk had some notes on him as well today. thats good, right?

  54. 54 Sb2bowl said at 10:25 AM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Hey all-
    Came across these as we were cleaning out my dad’s room this weekend. I had posted something a few months ago about VHS tapes- wanted to share some of the findings.

    Lots of memories in these video tapes. Thought you guys would enjoy reminiscing as well.
    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/f7e1ad4d127e770d524eaa16685122ebe5bed8c074a8116f826799f3fe9cdd9b.jpg
    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c49286bca48fc8e46515aa0893e771f5877e90cd696febaadf34331381253491.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/51cc7c38cac42afd0b45f05ebf8f0f5cf4ba541b7137493f0b05ca0f9b018fd7.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1facab0378a53d21fc3478ac6f97727ffe802a5d15c0e8374b17c16045e12016.jpg

  55. 55 P_P_K said at 12:19 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    What’s a VHS?
    Just kidding, these are very cool.

  56. 56 Sb2bowl said at 1:19 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I had to google it when we were clearing out the book case. I’ve got a bunch more, but wanted to keep the downloads at work to a minimum

  57. 57 A_T_G said at 12:10 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I saw an article that mentioned the out of shape Smallwood comments as well as the positive reports discussed above. It made me wonder: assume Smallwood takes a big step and is good enough to be a feature back. How many years would he need to show up for camp in great shape before you would have the confidence not to have a strong contingency plan?

    http://www.espn.com/blog/philadelphia-eagles/post/_/id/21463/out-of-shape-a-year-ago-wendell-smallwood-offers-sweat-and-blood-at-eagles-camp

  58. 58 D3FB said at 12:33 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    The former is so improbable that i wouldn’t worry about the latter

  59. 59 P_P_K said at 1:05 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Oh man, there’s so many bad jokes to be made about a an out-of-shape smallwood that I hardly know where to begin. OK, how about following your lead, I’d propose that if you don’t have confidence in your Smallwood then it is important to have a strong contingency plan.

  60. 60 A_T_G said at 9:04 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    God, now you sound like my wife.

    Um, wait, I mean, er, GOOD ONE! HAHAHAHAHA!

    (that was close)

  61. 61 P_P_K said at 9:11 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Dr. Mrs A_T_G,
    Do you have any idea the things your husband is posting on Iggles Blitz?

  62. 62 FairOaks said at 5:57 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    On the other hand, it’s kind of hard to blame rookies for not being prepared for what an NFL season requires. The way he worded it may not have been the best — makes it sound like he knew ahead of time what he needed to do then didn’t, but that may very well not be the case — he may know *now* he wasn’t ready enough for the full-season grind. I imagine that is rather common.

  63. 63 A_T_G said at 9:06 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Yep. Definitely possible. If you are building the roster, how long before you feel confident in that rationale?

  64. 64 FairOaks said at 10:51 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    At least a second season 😉 Team is set up to see how the guys do. If he steps up and looks really good, maybe you let Blount walk. Or maybe they complement well and you try to keep both. Or find a new RB next year (highly likely). There’s nothing about him that should really prevent you from trying to find a stud, but he doesn’t inspire panic the way the CBs do either. He’s fine being part of a RB committee and then see if he takes a big step forward this year, or remains just decent. If he looks really good somehow, then don’t think I’d have concerns on the effort front going forward.

  65. 65 Tumtum said at 9:45 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I find Smallwood to be JAG. I’d love to have JAG that was dedicated to his craft. Same goes for DGB’s drinking buddy.

  66. 66 Will Defence Win Championship said at 1:16 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Iron sharpens Iron eh…well the new personnel on the Defensive line with the additions of Jerigan and Barnett will also make our O-Line better as they both practice with one another which is great…

    Yet the same cannot be said for the collection of corpses at the CB position, yes we have some young promising players but it does are improved WR’s group an injustice going up against CB’s who are just not NFL ready. Robinson should not make it out of camp or see the 53 man roster, Douglas has promise but his head is still spinning from the playbook and needs work on his technique, Sidney Jones in the lone bright spot but unavaiable for most likely this season. Which leaves what the deadpool of Mills, Brooks, Wright, Wiltz and Smith to choose from for starting positions not to mention what to do for a back up if the jnjury bug hits…

    This is sad and unacceptable, I feel for Jason Peters who may be on his last season at his quest for a Super Bowl Ring…

    Iron sharpens Iron eh… does wet paper towels work as well? C,mon Howie & Joe do your due dillegence there are at least 10 options out there at NFL quality CB’s that are clearly better than what is on our roster. This could be a very special year for The Philadelphia Eagles with this unique group of very talented football players. Yet the weak link at CB is going to handcuff the Eagle’s from greatness…Hoping the Front Office does something about this sooner than later…Go Eagles…

  67. 67 phillyrich50 said at 1:29 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    We better have a good pass rush, because I think we’ll be playing a lot of zone defense this year.

  68. 68 Someguy77 said at 1:47 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Has Jeffrey had previous shoulder issues? Missed his share of time the past 2 years and overall in Chicago (only started 56/90 in 5 years=62%).

    Is he a bit injury prone despite being a fairly large WR?

  69. 69 Will Defence Win Championship said at 1:48 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Yup…afraid so…but we are deep at WR’s for once…lot’s of options depending on who they keep…

  70. 70 Someguy77 said at 1:51 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    So is the 2017 is it:

    ‘No Need to Fear, the New and Improved Deep Threat Nelson Agholor is Here!’

  71. 71 Someguy77 said at 1:52 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Just made a beat for a decent bottle of Cab on Agholor O/U season TDs at 0.5.

    I took the under.

  72. 72 Will Defence Win Championship said at 1:54 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    No but will Jason Peter’s play next year? Not sure the exact number but something like 23 players will have to be retained next year….

  73. 73 Tumtum said at 9:43 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Blount is a rental. Doubt he comes back at age 31 to bang it up the middle again.

  74. 74 Tumtum said at 9:42 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Very injury prone. Did he get hurt?

  75. 75 Will Defence Win Championship said at 2:54 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I think there are some who truly under estimate the importance of very good outside CB’s play role in a NFL Defense in a pass Happy league…that’s all I’m saying….

  76. 76 or____ said at 4:03 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I disagree.

  77. 77 P_P_K said at 4:13 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    With our weak corners, I have nightmares about opponents converting on 3rd downs and sustaining drives.

  78. 78 or____ said at 4:14 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I have DVR’d games from last season.

  79. 79 Mac said at 4:16 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    More opportunities for sacks.

  80. 80 P_P_K said at 4:19 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I share your optimism because I think the D line is going to be ferocious this year. Still, DCs are going to be salivating when scheming against the Eagles cbs.

  81. 81 or____ said at 4:28 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Don’t you get it? We won’t be able to sack them because they will through quick passes that will go for TDs 100% of the time. We are screwed.

  82. 82 RobNE said at 4:46 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    hasn’t hurt the Pats much

  83. 83 eagleyankfan said at 7:13 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    and who were the corners on the Giants on their last SB ring? I think some truly under estimate the importance of a very good pass rush…

  84. 84 A_T_G said at 9:02 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I love great CB play, but conventional wisdom is that you build from the trenches out and strong down the middle. So if you can’t be great everywhere…you find a way to protect Toast Jenkins 2017 version.

  85. 85 Tumtum said at 9:42 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I thought you started a foundation with the ‘corner’stone though? eh? eh?

  86. 86 Ryan Rambo said at 6:56 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Chargers second round RG Forrest Lamp is out for the season with a torn ACL.

  87. 87 Tumtum said at 9:40 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    You thinking OL for DB trade or some such? Or just how this effects Melvin Gordon’s fantasy value?

  88. 88 Ryan Rambo said at 8:32 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Yessir….a trade for a DB, but I’m not sure who they have at corner. Also, the Rams lost their DE Easley for the season. I really don’t want Patrick Robinson starting for us this season. I’m sure we’ll make a move….just not sure when or for who.

  89. 89 Sb2bowl said at 9:57 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    There’s not much on either roster that inspires any more confidence than what we currently have on ours.

  90. 90 Ryan Rambo said at 2:44 PM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Trumaine Johnson is who I would like from the Rams. Not very likely but I was hoping we could land him before the draft since he didn’t want to be franchised again.

  91. 91 Sb2bowl said at 3:46 PM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Just wayyyyyy too much money, plus he’d have to work out an extension before we trade for him- and what would we give up for compensation?

    He’s going to get paid, probably around $15m per year; I just don’t see us investing that type of capital into that part of our defense. Jenkin, McCloud, Cox, Hicks (will need an extension), perhaps Jernigan…….. all are going to take some pretty good cap space.

  92. 92 Ryan Rambo said at 3:48 PM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Well you have to pay all good corners not on their rookie deal so I’m aware of the high cost. I really won’t care bout cost if Robinson is still starting and getting roasted in the regular season.

  93. 93 Sb2bowl said at 3:53 PM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Agreed, but I just don’t think it’s high up on their priority list. Especially in this scheme.

    Hope is a poor strategy. But I think their plan is to let the young guys compete and see what rises to the top. Get Jones healthy, have Douglas and Mills develop for another year, and see how it shakes out.

    Having a great pair of safeties helps mitigate the issues at CB, at least on medium and deeper passes. My fear is watching what Green Bay did to us on a regular basis; 2-3 step drops, quick hitters and move the chains.

    Death by 2000 paper cuts

  94. 94 GermanEagle said at 8:15 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Is Nnamdi a Free Agent?l

  95. 95 Dragon_Eagle said at 9:10 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    What about Asante?

  96. 96 Ryan Rambo said at 9:18 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I’d rather call Eric Allen

  97. 97 Dragon_Eagle said at 9:15 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    Bud Light does not qualify as beer. Need to negotiate with the Victory Brewing company.

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/12d5602fe7469a3f2eca6427a6ee82d58459497127fae68fc1dd244e2497407f.png

  98. 98 Insomniac said at 5:48 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Troegs and Victory are easily two of the best craft beer makers in state.

  99. 99 A_T_G said at 7:44 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    I found Lavery, out of Erie, this summer. Each style is better than the previous.

  100. 100 Dragon_Eagle said at 8:47 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Haven’t heard of that one. Will make a point of getting some.

  101. 101 Sb2bowl said at 9:54 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Yards is great. Lancaster Brewing Co has some good releases as well.

    But if I had to list a “favorite” – it’d be Troegs all day, and its not even close.

  102. 102 sonofdman said at 12:00 PM on August 3rd, 2017:

    If you get a chance, check out Free Will Brewing Co. in Perkasie, PA (about 45 min north of Philly). Not as big as the others you mentioned, but really, really great beer.

  103. 103 CrackSammich said at 11:29 PM on August 2nd, 2017:

    I live in Virginia, so local news covers WAS down here. Anyway, they’re reporting that the WASTEAM held their first special teams practice today. Their first. No wonder ours is better.

  104. 104 Ryan Rambo said at 8:33 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    Keep up the good work Washington!!

  105. 105 GermanEagle said at 11:12 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    In all fairness, I am afraid that Pryor will light it up with Kirk (not Kurt) this season..

    He’s also my top 5 WR in Fantasy Football to me…

  106. 106 Stan ⚓️ said at 3:45 AM on August 3rd, 2017:

    I’ve heard almost every beat reporter say that CJ Smith should be starting. So why is Burnt Toast Robinson still running with the 1s?