The Philadelphia Eagles bounced back in a big way in Week 2 of the preseason, but still suffered a 24-21 loss to the New England Patriots.
Philly's offense got a massive boost from the running backs Will Shipley and Carson Steele, who dominated the Patriots' defense. The Eagles' defense had some up-and-down moments, but ultimately, another Shaun Wade forced fumble in the second half led to what should have been the game-winning score before New England's late score.
There are nine initial thoughts from the game after watching a much-improved performance from the Eagles. Here are the nine that come to mind right away.
Initial reactions to the Eagles' preseason game against the Patriots
Jeremiah Trotter is just...so good in Year 3
One first-quarter play defines Trotter's performance. Trotter came on a blitz, and he got to Patriots quarterback Tommy DeVito so quickly that he was down on the ground within a second for the sack, quarterback hit, and tackle for loss. He finished the game with five tackles, one quarterback hit, one tackle for loss, and one sack. Get this man in the rotation at linebacker in the regular season, please.
The Will Shipley breakout game officially arrived
Shipley had nine carries for 51 yards in the first quarter alone. He ran all over the Patriots in the game, and he was picking up five to seven yards per carry almost every time he ran it up the middle of the line. He finished with 11 carries for 56 yards and one touchdown. No more questions about RB3. Shipley is the guy.
Carson Steele is not making it easy on the Eagles
Steele was a threat in both the passing and running game. He racked up 117 total yards on 18 touches and one touchdown. The Eagles could consider keeping Steele if they want to make a fullback out of him.
Ty Robinson is going to have some kind of role on this team in 2026
It was a second straight week where Robinson just dominated on the defensive line for the Eagles. He creates pressure and bullies offensive linemen all through the preseason and training camp. This game was no exception, as he put up four tackles, three quarterback hits, two sacks, and three tackles for loss. Robinson has a spot on this team and needs to be in the rotation with the rest of the line.
Andy Dalton is insufferable to watch in Sean Mannion's offense
Let's be honest, Dalton isn't going out of his way to win the backup job, and it is incredibly difficult to watch. Dalton has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls, so it makes no sense why he is struggling. He completed 3-of-10 passes for 44 yards. Dalton may not make the roster.
Darius Cooper showed off what Eagles fans have waited to see
Dalton did do one thing well in the game: he got Cooper the football. On four targets, Cooper caught three of them for 44 yards, including a 25-yard completion. This was the kind of performance Eagles fans wanted to see out of him, and Cooper delivered. He should be in the conversation for WR3 on this team.
Ambry Thomas lost a roster spot with one play
Thomas got burned on a 69-yard touchdown in the second quarter. He was on our list of guys who were one mistake away from being cut. That was the one play. Thomas won't be on this team for long.
It's time to give some love to Chris Kuper
This Eagles backup offensive line is very, very good. Drew Kendall and Willie Lampkin look to be locked in for 53-man roster spots, and there are so many others who should be in the conversation. Credit has to be given to Eagles offensive line coach Kuper, who had the impossible task of replacing Jeff Stoutland, and he has done a masterful job so far.
Read more: 24 hours later and Eagles turn draft pick from castoff to IR member
Joshua Weru never played football, but he might make this Eagles team
How about Weru getting a sack in the second football game he has ever played? His speed off the line and his motor are just incredible to watch. Questions remain about Uar Bernard making the roster, but Weru is much closer to making it than Bernard.
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