There’s no doubt about it: the 2022 NFL season is in full force. And with it comes the hope and dream of every NFL fan that this will be the year for their team. The first few weeks of the season are always exhilarating.
Let’s talk about one of the most exciting stories of the offseason. A team that has one of the most passionate fan bases in the NFL and what looks to be an offense so stacked they could give any opposing defense problems.
The Philadelphia Eagles.
Let’s dive in and see where the most explosive offense in the NFL might soar this season.
Offseason Moves
Before we can talk about where the Eagles might be going this season, let’s talk about how their offseason came together.
The Birds drafted two college standouts from the championship-winning Georgia Bulldogs in Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean. These picks addressed two of their biggest needs on defense: the defensive line and linebacker. They also addressed an upcoming need at center by drafting Cam Jurgens to replace the imminently inevitable retirement of Jason Kelce.
They traded some other picks and did some moving and shaking as well. But the biggest story of their draft came when they traded for star wideout and best friend of quarterback Jalen Hurts in A.J. Brown.
Jalen Hurts and the Passing Game
It’s no secret that what Jalen Hurts can do with his legs is pretty remarkable. The Eagles have a storied history of quarterbacks who can make plays like Hurts does, from Randall Cunningham to Donovan McNabb to Michael Vick.
But if the Birds’ offense is going to be as good as it can be, he is going to have to do it through the air, as well. And that’s exactly what he’s been doing over the first month of the season.
In Week 2, Hurts became the first quarterback in league history (103 seasons) to have an 80 percent completion rate, run for 300 yards, and have at least one rushing touchdown.
His accuracy and arm strength are much improved, but it’s his work ethic that might be the most impressive aspect of his game. He is not a man to rest on his laurels, and last week’s news is just that. He looks only ahead and is a solid leader in the locker room.
He’s the kind of versatile, talented, nose-to-the-grind quarterback you want on your team.
Rushing Attack
The Eagles led the league in rushing in 2021, and they pretty much have all of the same pieces in place to repeat again this year.
The offensive line is dealing with some injuries, but overall, they could be called the “Great Wall of Philly.” Miles Sanders is playing at a high level and is essentially the reason they won against a much-improved Jacksonville team in Week 4.
Boston Scott is still running wild, and second-year back Kenny Gainwell is steadily improving his overall game.
Improved Receiving Core
DeVonta Smith was a huge addition to the offense when he was drafted 10th overall in the 2021 draft. After all, he won the Heisman for a reason.
But the game-changing (pun so intended) roster move was adding Titans star receiver A.J. Brown. The trade seemingly came out of nowhere, but Brown and Hurts have been close friends for a long time. And when players have chemistry off the field, it’s almost a sure thing that they’ll have chemistry on it.
Brown has been the best receiver when it comes to converting third downs this season, and when you have standouts like Smith and Colts transplant Zach Pascal lining up around him, Hurts has no shortage of weapons to read once the ball is snapped.
Offensive Line
The Eagles have the undisputed best offensive line in the NFL. The starting lineup is made up of a solid mix of veterans and younger players. It’s anchored by beloved veterans Jason Kelce at center and Lane Johnson at right tackle. Left tackle Jordan Mailata is filling some big shoes as a starter by filling in for long-time Eagle Jason Peters.
Up-and-comers at the guard spot, Isaac Seumalo and Landon Dickerson, have also shown promises. They’re dealing with some injuries right now, but if the group can stay healthy, they’ll be a nightmare for opposing defenses.
They’re not only strong but quick and athletic. And Jalen Hurts has one of the longest pocket times in the league at around 3.1 seconds.
Coaching
Over the past few seasons, the Eagles’ coaching staff has gone through some serious changes. When Philadelphia squeaked into the playoffs last year, Nick Sirianni became the only rookie head coach to accomplish that feat in 2021.
Explosive Plays
This roster is built on the ability to make explosive plays. The Eagles have multiple touchdown drives of 80+ yards this season. And whether they need to do it through the air or on the ground, they’ve shown that they’re down to do whatever it takes to get the job done.
The Eagles have a very favorable schedule, but “any given Sunday” is a very real thing. As long as they can make it happen when it really matters, this could be the most exciting offense to watch throughout the season.
Conclusion
If there’s one idea that rings true every year, it’s that it’s a long season. Teams leading the pack initially often don’t even make the playoffs. Injuries occur.
But the Eagles have talent, depth, and determination when it comes to their offense. Not every game of the first month has been flawless, but they’ve consistently found ways to get things done.
If things fall the right way for them, there is no disputing that the Eagles possess the most dangerous offense in the NFL.
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