The Philadelphia Eagles have completed their first week of voluntary OTAs, which consisted of three days of practices.
There was only one day the media had a chance to check out the action, and on that day, there were all good signs from the Eagles. The offensive operation has received the most focus, as Eagles fans need to know whether there has been any improvement in that unit.
When all was said and done, there were three clear winners and two clear losers from the Eagles in the first week of the OTAs. Here is who made that list.
Winner: Markel Bell, RT
Bell has been an Eagle for a month, but he has already made a good enough impression that he is getting first-team reps. Lane Johnson was not at OTAs, which has led to Bell getting playing time, but the fact that he is getting first team reps over the veteran Fred Johnson shows a lot. Bell has a future on this team, as he is increasingly looking like the successor to Lane Johnson.
Loser: Fred Johnson, OT
It was quite a surprise to hear that Bell was taking first team reps at right tackle, especially since Fred Johnson played that position the last eight games of the year. This is the first sign that Johnson might be moved to the left side, which isn't a bad thing, but it's an interesting move by the Eagles as they put their faith in the rookie to back up Lane Johnson.
Winner: Sean Mannion, OC
From his press conference with the media to Jalen Hurts having a strong performance in practice, it's all good signs early for Mannion. Hurts and Saquon Barkley spoke highly of the new scheme, and the media offered no negative notes on how the offense looked. Overall, Mannion made the first impression he needed to start his tenure with the Eagles.
Loser: Dontayvion Wicks, WR
It was interesting to see Wicks' name among the six players absent from the voluntary workout when the media was present. He might have something going on, but missing those reps with Hurts is massive when he needs to make a good first impression with his teammates. Wicks knows Mannion's offense, which is a positive, so Eagles fans just need to hope he's ready by the time the season starts.
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Winner: Jalen Hurts, QB
Hurts went 11 of 14 in his one day with the media in front of the Eagles, but the big thing was the success he had under center. That was a big step for him, as he performed well and showed he could adjust to Mannion's scheme early on. He's only going to get better and more comfortable, so it's a good start for the quarterback who has a lot of pressure on him.
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