hawaiitribune_herald
The Philadelphia Eagles kicked off their 2026 training camp on Wednesday morning, with general manager Howie Roseman and head coach Nick Sirianni addressing the media just minutes before the first practice. The opening news conference quickly turned to questions about Jalen Carter's new contract, drawing a playful response from Roseman who quipped about the lack of a welcome-back greeting.
Roseman emphasized the team's focus on alignment and togetherness, a message echoed by quarterback Jalen Hurts, who revealed his personal notes from Sirianni's team meeting: "100 percent alignment, zero percent entitlement."
Here are 10 key observations from Day 1 of Eagles training camp:
1. Jonathan Greenard Opens on PUP
Defensive end Jonathan Greenard, the team's top free-agent addition, started camp on the physically unable to perform list after straining his pectoral while lifting weights. Roseman expressed confidence the injury is not long-term, stating, "We want to be smart with all our guys... This is nothing we're concerned about." Greenard observed practice from the sideline.
2. Jalen Carter's Record Deal
Jalen Carter signed a $152 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history. Carter said staying with the Eagles was his priority, and Roseman noted the team had hoped to sign him earlier but waited for the defensive tackle market to settle. Teammate Jordan Davis attended Carter's news conference in support.
3. Contract Based on Future Potential
Roseman and Carter's teammates emphasized the extension was for expected future performance, not past achievements. Carter joked about teammates pranking him with a $5 bill tucked in his backpack by Hurts' wife, which he carried around the facility.
4. Offensive Transformation on Display
Hurts operated primarily from under center during team drills, with heavy use of play-action. The offense featured frequent motion and targeted the middle of the field, including deep passes to DeVonta Smith and Darius Cooper. Hurts noted, "It's an extension of what I've done already... We just haven't done it a lot." Pre-snap penalties were an issue, but Smith downplayed concerns for July.
5. Healthier Roster Than Last Year
Greenard was the only player absent from the 90-man roster. Key players who missed spring practices, including linebacker Jihaad Campbell and first-round pick Makai Lemon, were full participants. Landon Dickerson and Cam Jurgens also practiced without issues after conditioning tests.
6. Depth Chart Notes
Cooper DeJean started at safety in base defense, with Marcus Epps moving to safety in nickel. Johnny Mundt was the No. 2 tight end, and Dontayvion Wicks worked as the second receiver. Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith started at edge rusher with Greenard out. Tanner McKee and Andy Dalton split second-team quarterback reps.
7. Play of the Day
Hurts connected with Smith on a deep seam route against All-Pro cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, while Darius Cooper made a leaping grab over Cooper DeJean for the most impressive play. Both completions came in the middle of the field.
8. Standout Performers
Jalyx Hunt generated pressure against the first-team offensive line, and running back Tank Bigsby impressed with receiving ability out of the backfield.
9. Brandon Graham Update
Roseman confirmed consistent communication with veteran defensive end Brandon Graham, who came out of retirement last season. Graham has expressed interest in a 17th season but wants to participate in training camp if he returns. Roseman declined to discuss specifics.
10. LeBron James Buzz
Players were excited about LeBron James joining the Philadelphia 76ers. Hurts called it "huge for the city," and Roseman joked James is welcome at any practice.
Originally reported by hawaiitribune_herald.