Eagles-Browns Observations: Rookies Shine, Offense Declines

After an inconsistent pair of practices against the Cleveland Browns, many thought the Philadelphia Eagles would have a better showing during their preseason matchup. Yet that wasn’t the case, as the Browns defeated the Eagles by a final score of 22-13 at Lincoln Financial Field on a steamy August afternoon.

Philadelphia opted to rest many of their starters, as expected. Yet several players that will have significant roles for the Eagles in 2025 were on the field against the Browns. Following a rather uneventful matchup, here are my observations from Philadelphia’s second preseason game.

Jihaad Campbell, Drew Mukuba Look Ready To Start

Jihaad Campbell impressed in his NFL debut last week and continued his strong play against the Browns. Campbell recorded four total tackles and a sack. Yet it’s his alignment versatility that impressed me the most. It’s clear that Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio already views Campbell in a Zack Baun-esque role given how he played both on and off the line of scrimmage.

Drew Mukuba missed last week’s preseason opener and made his NFL debut against the Browns. After allowing a completion, Mukuba made several impressive plays, including a pick six. Mukuba creeped up to the line of scrimmage before the snap a few times, reminding me of the role that C.J. Gardner-Johnson played in Fangio’s defense last season. It feels like both Campbell and Mukuba will have significant roles in Week 1.

Jakorian Bennett Making Things Interesting at CB2

Despite joining the Eagles less than two weeks ago, Jakorian Bennett is clearly in the mix for the starting job at CB2. While Adoree’ Jackson and Kelee Ringo got the start against the Browns, neither player has separated themselves from the pack. Which could prove to be dangerous given Bennett’s performance against the Browns.

Bennett played plenty of snaps in his preseason debut for the Eagles and showcased his physicality, despite his size. While Bennett is significantly smaller than Ringo, it seemed like the offense felt his presence while he was on the field. The fact that the competition is still wide open this far into training camp bodes well for Bennett’s chances to start in Week 1.

Second-Team Offensive Line Is a Legitimate Concern

After locking up the starting right guard spot, Tyler Steen didn’t play in Philadelphia’s second preseason game. The Eagles went with their second-team offensive line and the results weren’t pretty. Jeff Stoutland’s unit struggled to generate much push in the running game and consistently allowed pressure in the passing game.

Kendall Lamm and Matt Pryor got the start at offensive tackle, yet both veterans struggled. It was an uninspiring performance that certainly raises the concern level if Lane Johnson or Jordan Mailata are forced to miss time. Given that both players missed time last season, the Eagles might need to rethink their plan at swing tackle.

Azeez Ojulari Shows Flashes After Slow Start

When the Eagles signed Azeez Ojulari to a one-year, $3 million contract, many thought it was a steal for Philadelphia. Yet several weeks into training camp, Ojulari had failed to impress on the field. After failing to hold the edge on an end around play, Ojulari bounced back against the Browns.

Ojulari registered multiple pressures in Philadelphia’s second preseason game, including a sack on third down. He also made an impressive play against the run, where he stayed disciplined on the edge and then crashed down the line of scrimmage for a tackle. It was an encouraging performance for Ojulari following a slow start to training camp.

QB3 Competition Is an Absolute Mess

Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni changed his preseason strategy from previous years as he opted to rest QB2 Tanner McKee. While it’s hard to get mad at Sirianni for resting McKee, it was difficult to watch both Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Kyle McCord against the Browns.

Both players struggled to get much going through the air, as they completed 13-of-24 passes for just 47 yards combined. After watching McKee put on a show in the preseason opener, it was unfair to watch Philadelphia’s pass catchers try to work with both “DTR” and McCord. While McCord will likely get the nod due to his draft status, it’s hard to be encouraged by Philadelphia’s options at QB3.

Eagles Are Absolutely Stacked Along the IDL

The Eagles traded away Thomas Booker IV and are still absolutely stacked along the interior defensive line. While Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis and Moro Ojomo didn’t play against the Browns, Philadelphia’s defensive line still showed flashes. Gabe Hall spent last season on the Eagles practice squad and his growth is clear given his impressive play through Philadelphia’s first two preseason games.

Eagles fourth-round pick Ty Robinson continues to make plays as well. Byron Young is finally healthy and I thought that he consistently generated a good push upfront. Even depth additions such as Justin Rogers and Jacob Sykes made plays against the Browns. The Eagles are going to have to cut some talented interior defensive linemen later this month.

Underrated Player of the Game: Cameron Latu

Cameron Latu is a former third-round pick that has bounced around the NFL since 2023. While it’s tough to envision him making Philadelphia’s final roster, I was very impressed with his play on special teams. Latu has clearly embraced the “dirty work” role and made multiple tackles against the Browns on Philadelphia’s coverage units.

The Eagles have a clear top duo of Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra at tight end. While Philadelphia likely won’t be able to keep a bunch of tight ends on their final 53-man roster, Latu might be worth stashing on the practice squad due to his ability on special teams.