Eagles Depth Chart 2024: Projecting Starters, Key Backups & Roster Battles
Philadelphia Eagles Depth Chart 2024: A Deep Dive
The Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2024 season with Super Bowl aspirations. After a disappointing end to the 2023 campaign, significant changes have been made to both the coaching staff and the roster. Understanding the projected depth chart is crucial for fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the Eagles' projected starters and key backups, while also highlighting the most intriguing roster battles to watch during training camp.
Offensive Depth Chart Projections
The Eagles' offense, once a juggernaut, needs to rediscover its rhythm. With Kellen Moore taking over as offensive coordinator, expect some schematic tweaks and a renewed focus on efficiency. Let's break down each position:
Quarterback
- Starter: Jalen Hurts
- Backup: Kenny Pickett
- Third String: Tanner McKee
Analysis: Jalen Hurts is the unquestioned leader of the offense. His dual-threat ability and arm talent make him one of the league's most dynamic quarterbacks. Kenny Pickett, acquired via trade, provides a significant upgrade at the backup position. His experience in Pittsburgh will be valuable. Tanner McKee is a developmental prospect who needs time to refine his skills. Expect Hurts to shoulder the majority of snaps, with Pickett ready to step in if needed. Hurts’ improvement in reading defenses and his ability to protect the ball will be crucial for the Eagles’ success. The addition of Pickett adds a layer of security they lacked last year.
Running Back
- Starter: Saquon Barkley
- Backup: Kenneth Gainwell
- Third String: Will Shipley
- Fourth String: Tyrion Davis-Price
Analysis: The Eagles made a splash in free agency by signing Saquon Barkley. He brings elite talent and versatility to the backfield. Barkley is a threat as both a runner and receiver, making him a valuable weapon for Hurts. Kenneth Gainwell will continue to be a reliable backup and third-down specialist. Rookie Will Shipley offers potential as a change-of-pace back. Tyrion Davis-Price has an opportunity to earn a roster spot with a strong showing in camp. Barkley’s impact will be immediate and significant, instantly elevating the Eagles’ running game. His ability to break tackles and create explosive plays will be a major asset.
Wide Receiver
- Starter: A.J. Brown
- Starter: DeVonta Smith
- Slot Receiver: Parris Campbell
- Backup: DeVante Parker
- Backup: Johnny Wilson
- Backup: Britain Covey
Analysis: A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith form one of the league's best receiving duos. Their size, speed, and route-running ability make them matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. Parris Campbell, signed in free agency, is projected to be the primary slot receiver, adding a much-needed speed element to the passing game. DeVante Parker brings veteran experience and size. Johnny Wilson, a rookie, is a long-term project with high potential. Britain Covey's primary value is as a punt returner. The Eagles’ success hinges on Brown and Smith continuing their dominant performances. Campbell’s ability to stretch the field from the slot will be key for opening up opportunities for the outside receivers. Parker provides valuable depth, while Wilson could develop into a significant contributor down the road.
Tight End
- Starter: Dallas Goedert
- Backup: Grant Calcaterra
- Third String: E.J. Jenkins
Analysis: Dallas Goedert is a reliable target for Hurts, known for his strong hands and blocking ability. Grant Calcaterra is a solid backup with potential to develop into a more significant role. E.J. Jenkins is a developmental prospect. Goedert’s consistency and ability to contribute in both the passing and running game are vital to the Eagles’ offensive success. Calcaterra needs to show improvement as a blocker to secure his role. The tight end position will likely be featured more prominently in Kellen Moore’s offense.
Offensive Line
- Left Tackle: Jordan Mailata
- Left Guard: Landon Dickerson
- Center: Cam Jurgens
- Right Guard: Tyler Steen
- Right Tackle: Lane Johnson
- Key Backups: Fred Johnson, Matt Hennessy, Mekhi Becton, Trevor Keegan
Analysis: The Eagles' offensive line remains one of the league's best, even with some changes. Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson are elite tackles. Landon Dickerson is a Pro Bowl-caliber guard. Cam Jurgens moves to center, filling a critical role. Tyler Steen will look to solidify his position at Right Guard. Fred Johnson, Matt Hennessy and Mekhi Becton provide valuable depth. The offensive line's ability to protect Hurts and open up running lanes for Barkley will be crucial for the Eagles' offensive success. Maintaining their dominance in the trenches is paramount. The development of Steen at right guard will be a key storyline to watch. The addition of Becton could prove to be a shrewd move if he can stay healthy and recapture his potential.
Defensive Depth Chart Projections
The Eagles' defense underwent significant changes in the offseason, including the hiring of Vic Fangio as defensive coordinator. Expect a more aggressive and complex scheme. Let's examine the projected depth chart:
Defensive Line
- Defensive End: Josh Sweat
- Defensive Tackle: Jalen Carter
- Defensive Tackle: Jordan Davis
- Defensive End: Bryce Huff
- Key Backups: Brandon Graham, Milton Williams, Moro Ojomo, Nolan Smith, Tarron Jackson
Analysis: The defensive line remains a strength of the Eagles' defense. Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis anchor the interior, providing both run-stopping and pass-rushing ability. Josh Sweat and Bryce Huff will look to get after the passer from the edge. Veteran Brandon Graham returns for another season, providing valuable leadership and depth. Milton Williams and Moro Ojomo will rotate in on the interior. Nolan Smith will look to take a leap in his second year. The Eagles' defensive line must generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The development of Carter and Davis into dominant forces is crucial. Huff adds a much-needed pass-rushing presence. Graham’s leadership and experience will be invaluable. Smith’s potential is sky-high, and the Eagles are hoping he can unlock it under Fangio’s tutelage.
Linebacker
- Linebacker: Nakobe Dean
- Linebacker: Devin White
- Linebacker: Oren Burks
- Key Backups: Patrick Johnson, Ben VanSumeren, Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Analysis: Nakobe Dean is expected to take on a larger role as the team's MIKE linebacker. Devin White, signed in free agency, brings athleticism and experience to the linebacker corps. Oren Burks provides valuable depth and special teams contributions. Patrick Johnson is a versatile player who can contribute on both defense and special teams. Ben VanSumeren and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. are developmental prospects. The Eagles need improved play from their linebackers in 2024. Dean’s ability to read offenses and make plays will be critical. White’s speed and physicality will be a welcome addition. Trotter Jr., son of Eagles legend Jeremiah Trotter, is a fan favorite with a lot to prove.
Cornerback
- Cornerback: Darius Slay
- Cornerback: Quinyon Mitchell
- Slot Cornerback: Avonte Maddox
- Key Backups: James Bradberry, Isaiah Rodgers, Eli Ricks, Zech McPhearson, Mario Goodrich
Analysis: Darius Slay remains the team's top cornerback, providing experience and leadership. Quinyon Mitchell, the Eagles' first-round pick, is expected to start immediately and brings exceptional athleticism. Avonte Maddox will look to reclaim his role as the primary slot cornerback. James Bradberry looks to bounce back after a tough 2023 season. Isaiah Rodgers provides speed and potential at the cornerback position. Eli Ricks and Zech McPhearson offer depth. The performance of the cornerback group will be crucial for the Eagles' defensive success. Slay needs to continue playing at a high level. Mitchell needs to adjust quickly to the NFL. Maddox’s health is key to solidifying the slot corner position. Bradberry must regain his form from previous seasons. Rodgers adds an intriguing element to the secondary, bringing both speed and ball skills.
Safety
- Safety: Reed Blankenship
- Safety: C.J. Gardner-Johnson
- Key Backups: Sydney Brown, Tristin McCollum, Andre Sam
Analysis: Reed Blankenship returns as a starting safety, providing solid play and leadership. C.J. Gardner-Johnson is back with the Eagles and expected to make an immediate impact. Sydney Brown is recovering from a torn ACL. Tristin McCollum provides depth. Andre Sam is a player to watch in training camp. The safety position is a key area of focus for the Eagles' defense. Blankenship needs to continue his steady play. Gardner-Johnson’s versatility and playmaking ability will be a huge boost. Brown’s recovery is crucial for the Eagles’ depth at safety.
Special Teams Depth Chart Projections
- Kicker: Jake Elliott
- Punter: Braden Mann
- Long Snapper: Rick Lovato
- Kick Returner: Boston Scott / Will Shipley
- Punt Returner: Britain Covey
Analysis: Jake Elliott is one of the league's most reliable kickers. Braden Mann returns as the punter. Rick Lovato is a consistent long snapper. Britain Covey is expected to handle punt return duties. Boston Scott and Will Shipley will likely compete for the kick returner role. Special teams can often be the difference between winning and losing, and the Eagles have a solid unit. Elliott’s consistency is a major asset. Covey’s sure hands and ability to make defenders miss make him a valuable punt returner. The competition between Scott and Shipley for the kick return job will be one to watch in training camp.
Key Roster Battles to Watch
Several roster battles will be worth monitoring during training camp:
- Right Guard: Tyler Steen vs. Matt Hennessy: Steen is the favorite, but Hennessy will push him for the starting job.
- Backup Wide Receiver Spots: Several players, including DeVante Parker and Johnny Wilson, will compete for limited roster spots.
- Linebacker Depth: Patrick Johnson, Ben VanSumeren, and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. will battle for roster spots and special teams roles.
- Cornerback Depth: Isaiah Rodgers, Eli Ricks, and Zech McPhearson will compete for valuable depth roles.
- Running Back Depth: Will Shipley and Tyrion Davis-Price will battle for carries behind Barkley and Gainwell.
Impact of Coaching Changes on Depth Chart
The coaching changes, particularly the additions of Vic Fangio and Kellen Moore, will have a significant impact on the depth chart. Fangio's defensive scheme may favor certain players over others, while Moore's offensive system could unlock the potential of some underutilized players. Keep an eye on which players excel in the new schemes during training camp.
Fangio's focus on zone coverage could benefit some cornerbacks and safeties. His emphasis on creating pressure with the front four might allow linebackers to focus more on coverage and run support. Moore's offensive philosophy, which emphasizes tempo and spreading the ball around, could create more opportunities for receivers and running backs.
Predicting the Eagles' Success in 2024
The Eagles have the talent to compete for a Super Bowl in 2024. However, several factors will determine their success:
- Jalen Hurts' continued development: Hurts needs to take another step forward as a passer and decision-maker.
- Saquon Barkley's impact: Barkley must stay healthy and be a consistent playmaker.
- Defensive improvement under Vic Fangio: The defense needs to be more consistent and generate more turnovers.
- Offensive line dominance: The offensive line must continue to protect Hurts and open up running lanes.
- Health: The Eagles need to stay healthy, particularly at key positions.
The Eagles' depth chart is filled with talent and potential. The coaching changes bring new hope and excitement. With a strong offseason and a little luck, the Eagles could be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in February.
Fantasy Football Implications
Understanding the Eagles' depth chart is crucial for fantasy football players. Here are some key takeaways:
- Jalen Hurts: A top-tier fantasy quarterback with both passing and rushing upside.
- Saquon Barkley: A potential RB1 with a high floor due to his receiving ability.
- A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith: Both are high-end WR2s with WR1 upside.
- Dallas Goedert: A solid TE1 option.
- Kenneth Gainwell: A valuable handcuff running back.
Keep an eye on the Eagles' training camp and preseason games to get a better sense of player usage and potential breakouts. The Eagles’ offense has the potential to be one of the most explosive in the league, making their players valuable assets in fantasy football.
The Future of the Eagles' Roster
The Eagles are constantly evaluating and adjusting their roster. Here are some long-term considerations:
- Developing young players: The Eagles need to develop young players like Nolan Smith, Tyler Steen, and Johnny Wilson into key contributors.
- Addressing future needs: The Eagles will need to address future needs at positions like cornerback and linebacker through the draft and free agency.
- Maintaining cap flexibility: The Eagles need to manage their salary cap effectively to remain competitive.
The Eagles have a bright future, but they need to continue to make smart decisions to stay at the top of the NFL. By developing young talent, addressing future needs, and maintaining cap flexibility, the Eagles can remain a Super Bowl contender for years to come.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia Eagles' depth chart is a work in progress, but it is filled with talent and potential. By understanding the projected starters, key backups, and roster battles, fans can gain a better appreciation for the team's strengths and weaknesses. With a strong coaching staff and a roster full of talented players, the Eagles have the potential to make a deep playoff run in 2024.
The key to the Eagles’ success will be the development of their young players, the performance of their key veterans, and the ability of the coaching staff to maximize the team’s potential. As training camp unfolds and the season progresses, the depth chart will continue to evolve, and the Eagles will need to be adaptable and resilient to overcome any challenges that arise. But with the talent and resources they have in place, the Eagles are well-positioned to compete for a Super Bowl title in 2024.