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Philadelphia Eagles Preseason Preview: Roster Battles, Bengals Clash & Season Outlook
The anticipation builds as the
Philadelphia Eagles prepare for their first preseason game against the
Cincinnati Bengals. With “Eagles preseason” trending across Pennsylvania, this exhibition marks the beginning of crucial evaluations for a team with
Super Bowl aspirations.
Roster Battles to Watch
According to
ESPN, these key position battles will dominate preseason snaps:
- Safety: Reed Blankenship’s partner – Sydney Brown vs. rookie Andrew Mukuba
- Pass Rush: New additions Azeez Ojulari and Joshua Uche proving their worth
- Linebacker: Rookies Jihaad Campbell and Smael Mondon Jr. fighting for depth spots
NBC Sports Philadelphia reports Mukuba’s shoulder injury may limit his participation, giving Brown a critical opportunity to stake his claim.
Eagles vs. Bengals: Preseason Showdown
While Eagles starters will likely rest,
CBS Sports confirms Cincinnati plans to play their starters briefly. This creates fascinating matchups:
| Eagles Depth |
Bengals Starters |
Key Matchup |
| 2nd/3rd string DBs |
Ja’Marr Chase/Tee Higgins |
Secondary evaluation |
| Backup OL |
Starting DL |
Protection schemes |
| Rookie LBs |
Joe Burrow |
Coverage awareness |
As noted by
Pro Football Network, these reps against quality opposition provide invaluable tape for final roster decisions.
2025 Season Outlook
The Eagles face one of the NFL’s toughest schedules according to
Sports Illustrated:
- Weeks 1-4: @Falcons, vs. Packers, @Cowboys, vs. 49ers
- Prime Time: 6 scheduled night games
- Division: Cowboys and Commanders both improved
With Jalen Hurts entering his prime and new defensive coordinator
Clint Hurtt implementing changes, this preseason is critical for establishing rhythm.
Rookies & Newcomers Under Microscope
Per
Bleeding Green Nation, these players face make-or-break preseason performances:
- QB Kyle McCord: 6th-round pick needs to show command
- WR Johnny Wilson: 6’6″ target battling for WR5 spot
- CB Shon Stephens: Small-school standout proving himself
The Eagles have historically kept 1-2 undrafted free agents.
PhillyVoice identifies LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and RB Kendall Milton as dark horse candidates.
Final Preseason Thoughts
As
The Philadelphia Inquirer notes, successful franchises use preseason to:
- Identify core special teamers
- Develop emergency depth
- Evaluate scheme adjustments
With the Bengals game kicking off this evaluation period, all eyes will be on how the Eagles’ young talent responds to the bright lights. The journey to another Lombardi Trophy begins now.
