Sportsnaut
The Philadelphia Eagles’ title defense officially kicks off Thursday as they face the Cincinnati Bengals in their first preseason game. Several players will be looking to make their mark with game reps they normally won’t get. Here are the top five questions facing the Eagles heading into Thursday night’s matchup.
If the past is any indication, head coach Nick Sirianni won’t play key offensive starters in any preseason game, mirroring his approach in 2023 and 2024. However, don’t be surprised to see defensive starters take the field against Cincinnati. Last year, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio played his starters in the preseason.
Second-year receiver Ainias Smith told The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jeff Neiburg that it’s a “statement game” against the Bengals after a tepid training camp despite increased reps without A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith practicing. The opposite is true for Elijah Cooks, who spent his first two seasons with Jacksonville. The 6-foot-4 receiver is having a solid camp. With the top three receiver spots set with Brown, Smith and Jahan Dotson, and Terrace Marshall sidelined with a knee injury, Smith and Cooks could be battling for the final slot.
The Eagles need a starting outside cornerback alongside Quinyon Mitchell, with third-year corner Kelee Ringo and free-agent signing Adoree’ Jackson looking to separate themselves. This game becomes even more critical after the Birds recently traded for cornerback Jakorian Bennett from Las Vegas, who could easily claim the CB2 spot. With Cincinnati playing Joe Burrow and other offensive starters, Ringo and Jackson must show why they deserve to start alongside Mitchell.
With second-round pick Andrew Mukuba slowed by a shoulder injury, third-year safety Sydney Brown has been taking first-team reps in nickel and dime packages. Brown suffered a torn ACL late in 2023, costing him six games in 2024. In 11 games last year, Brown recorded one interception, one forced fumble, two pass breakups and seven tackles. After trading C.J. Gardner-Johnson to Houston, the Eagles need Brown or Mukuba to step up alongside Reed Blankenship. Right now, it’s Brown’s job to lose.
The Eagles might have landed the steal of the draft, selecting Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell with the 31st overall pick. Campbell slid after undergoing surgery for a torn labrum, but he’s done nothing but impress in camp. According to PHLY Sports Daily, Campbell is expected to start Thursday against Cincinnati. He’s been taking first-team reps with All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun sidelined by a back contusion. If Campbell plays, it will be exciting to see the Eagles’ potential franchise linebacker in action.
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