Offensive Adjustments Underway
More than a week into Philadelphia Eagles training camp, quarterback Jalen Hurts and the offense are in a period of “calibrating” as they integrate a new scheme. This new offensive approach, led by first-year coordinator Sean Mannion, is still in its initial installation phases. Hurts noted that the team is discovering its identity with many new components and a fresh philosophy.
During a recent practice, Hurts demonstrated his ability to adapt. On Monday, the fourth day of practice, he connected with Elijah Moore on a deep post play, covering approximately 40 yards. This particular play followed an earlier “mishap” between the two teammates where Moore ran an incorrect route, leading to an interception by Quinyon Mitchell. Hurts expressed pride in Moore’s response, highlighting his ability to perform effectively on the subsequent play.
The offense has shown various new elements during camp, including Hurts taking more snaps from under center. The run and play-action plays are being designed to appear similar, and a wide-zone blocking scheme is currently being installed. Hurts has also kept the ball on more designed quarterback runs, such as a read option where he gained significant yardage along the left sideline.
Hurts mentioned that it is premature to fully assess how these designed quarterback runs will integrate into the new offense, as the installation process is ongoing. He emphasized that the team has not yet completed the installation of all offensive aspects, with more to be introduced.
Injuries and Absences Impacting Camp
The training camp has also seen several players dealing with injuries and absences. Cooper DeJean was sidelined on Tuesday with an arm injury but returned to the field on Wednesday. Wide receiver and return specialist Britain Covey left Tuesday’s practice early and did not participate on Wednesday due to a hamstring injury.
Covey joins other receivers, DeVonta Smith and Makai Lemon, who are also managing hamstring issues. Lemon, a rookie, missed the last two weeks of OTAs with a hamstring injury and has now missed his third consecutive training camp practice for the same reason. While reports suggest the team is not overly concerned, missing valuable practice repetitions is not ideal for a young player.
Offensive tackle Lane Johnson has also been absent from training camp. He missed Saturday’s practice with an excused designation, which was not injury-related, and had not returned by mid-week. Reports indicate that Johnson is expected to rejoin the team soon. Other players not practicing on Wednesday included Landon Dickerson (rest/not injury related), Keyshawn James-Newby (ankle), and Cole Wisniewski (hamstring). Additionally, Micah Morris (shoulder) and Jaeden Roberts (calf contusion) were listed as limited participants.
Quarterback’s Approach to New Scheme
Hurts described his current approach during camp as “letting curiosity lead me.” He is focused on understanding the rationale behind the new offensive concepts and learning the responsibilities of each player within a given play. He is also gaining insight into how Mannion approaches play-calling from a sequencing perspective.
Mannion noted that Hurts asks “thought-provoking questions” and that their collaboration has involved continuous dialogue. Mannion aims to understand what Hurts feels comfortable with and where more detailed explanations might be needed to ensure his complete mastery of the plays. This partnership is crucial for developing a cohesive offensive strategy that leverages Hurts’ strengths and comfort levels in various game situations.
The offense has faced challenges, with the defense, led by Vic Fangio, having the upper hand through the initial six days of practice, despite the offense performing well on Monday. Wednesday’s practice was shorter and focused heavily on run plays. The team has a walkthrough scheduled for Thursday, which is closed to the media, before resuming regular practices on Friday and Saturday, marking the busiest practice week of training camp.
Hurts clarified that the change to taking snaps from under center does not alter his fundamental approach to reading plays. He stated that his focus remains on his footwork and getting his eyes to the correct places, emphasizing that it is a matter of flow and sequencing. The goal is to play the position consistently, sweep through reads, and know where to go with the ball quickly.
The installation of the new offense is still ongoing, with Wednesday, August 5, being more than five weeks before the first meaningful snap of the season.
Source: inquirer.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.