- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 1,130,650
- Reaction score
- 59
The Philadelphia Eagles return one of the NFL's most talented rosters, but several key position battles remain unresolved as organized team activities continue and training camp approaches. While stars such as Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Zack Baun, and Quinyon Mitchell have secured roles, competition throughout the depth chart could determine how successful the Eagles are in 2026.
Here are five roster battles worth watching.
Backup running back
This competition may be more crowded than expected. Will Shipley entered the last offseason as the presumed favorite to back up Barkley after contributing on offense and special teams as a rookie. Shipley appeared in 15 games, adding 105 yards from scrimmage while averaging 26.8 yards per kick return in 2025.
The Eagles, however, added two intriguing challengers. Tank Bigsby averaged 5.7 yards per carry last season and provides a physical running style, while Dameon Pierce arrives and has been a solid NFL running back. The competition could ultimately come down to which player offers the best combination of rushing production and special teams value.
Third linebacker
Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell headline the position group, but Campbell's absence during spring workouts has created opportunities behind them. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Smael Mondon Jr. have each received valuable reps and will look to build momentum before training camp. Chandler Martin remains in the mix as well.
With linebacker depth considered one of Philadelphia's strengths, this battle could continue deep into the preseason.
Fourth cornerback
The Eagles boast arguably the NFL's best trio with Riq Woolen, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean. The real competition comes behind them. Kelee Ringo enters camp with experience and upside, while Ambry Thomas, Jakorian Bennett, Tariq Castro-Fields, and Mac McWilliams will all compete for roster spots. Special teams contributions could prove decisive when final cuts arrive.
Starting safety
Andrew Mukuba appears locked into one starting role, but the position remains unsettled alongside him. Marcus Epps returns after re-signing with Philadelphia, while J.T. Gray brings veteran experience and special teams value. Michael Carter II's restructured contract makes him an intriguing option, and Andre Sam remains in contention despite a crowded depth chart.
This battle may not be settled until late August.
Wide receiver and edge rusher
Two of the most fascinating competitions involve premium positions.
At wide receiver, the Eagles are preparing for a future that could eventually separate A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. First-round pick Makai Lemon, veteran Hollywood Brown, and trade acquisition Dontayvion Wicks will all compete for major roles in Sean Mannion's offense.
At edge rusher, Jonathan Greenard anchors the room, but playing time behind him remains up for grabs. Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, Arnold Ebiketie, and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka all bring intriguing skill sets. Hunt's breakout 2025 season gives him momentum, but the competition for snaps could be one of the most intense on the roster.
The Eagles possess enough talent to contend for another championship. How these position battles unfold may determine just how high Philadelphia's ceiling can be in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Five Eagles position battles that could shape the 2026 roster
Continue reading...
Here are five roster battles worth watching.
Backup running back
This competition may be more crowded than expected. Will Shipley entered the last offseason as the presumed favorite to back up Barkley after contributing on offense and special teams as a rookie. Shipley appeared in 15 games, adding 105 yards from scrimmage while averaging 26.8 yards per kick return in 2025.
The Eagles, however, added two intriguing challengers. Tank Bigsby averaged 5.7 yards per carry last season and provides a physical running style, while Dameon Pierce arrives and has been a solid NFL running back. The competition could ultimately come down to which player offers the best combination of rushing production and special teams value.
Third linebacker
Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell headline the position group, but Campbell's absence during spring workouts has created opportunities behind them. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Smael Mondon Jr. have each received valuable reps and will look to build momentum before training camp. Chandler Martin remains in the mix as well.
With linebacker depth considered one of Philadelphia's strengths, this battle could continue deep into the preseason.
Fourth cornerback
The Eagles boast arguably the NFL's best trio with Riq Woolen, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean. The real competition comes behind them. Kelee Ringo enters camp with experience and upside, while Ambry Thomas, Jakorian Bennett, Tariq Castro-Fields, and Mac McWilliams will all compete for roster spots. Special teams contributions could prove decisive when final cuts arrive.
Starting safety
Andrew Mukuba appears locked into one starting role, but the position remains unsettled alongside him. Marcus Epps returns after re-signing with Philadelphia, while J.T. Gray brings veteran experience and special teams value. Michael Carter II's restructured contract makes him an intriguing option, and Andre Sam remains in contention despite a crowded depth chart.
This battle may not be settled until late August.
Wide receiver and edge rusher
Two of the most fascinating competitions involve premium positions.
At wide receiver, the Eagles are preparing for a future that could eventually separate A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. First-round pick Makai Lemon, veteran Hollywood Brown, and trade acquisition Dontayvion Wicks will all compete for major roles in Sean Mannion's offense.
At edge rusher, Jonathan Greenard anchors the room, but playing time behind him remains up for grabs. Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, Arnold Ebiketie, and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka all bring intriguing skill sets. Hunt's breakout 2025 season gives him momentum, but the competition for snaps could be one of the most intense on the roster.
Final analysis
The Eagles possess enough talent to contend for another championship. How these position battles unfold may determine just how high Philadelphia's ceiling can be in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Five Eagles position battles that could shape the 2026 roster
Continue reading...
