Eagles Embrace Physicality in Practice as They Seek to End Losing Streak
The Philadelphia Eagles have turned up the intensity in their practices this week, adopting a more physical approach as they strive to break a two-game losing streak. With the echoes of their recent 34-17 defeat to the New York Giants still fresh, the team understands the urgency of reclaiming their status as one of the NFL’s dominant forces.
A Shift in Practice Approach
During their Week 7 practice, players donned a mix of shorts and padded pants, but all were equipped with shoulder pads. This marked a significant change from their usual Wednesday walkthroughs, highlighting a newfound determination to reestablish their physical edge.
“It was a good physical practice, it was,” said left tackle Jordan Mailata. “It’s a good reminder. It’s a physical game and we have to be the aggressor. We have to punch first.”
The Eagles face two critical matchups ahead—first against the Minnesota Vikings and then a rematch with the Giants—before heading into their bye week. The urgency to “punch first” is not just a mantra but a necessary strategy to regain momentum.
Addressing Offensive Concerns
Over the past two weeks, discussions surrounding the Eagles have centered on their predictable offense, which has been criticized for its lack of variety and execution. The team’s decision to embrace a more aggressive practice style reflects their commitment to turning around these narratives.
Linebacker Nakobe Dean noted that the shift back to physical practices was a collective decision among players. “Some players went to (head coach Nick Sirianni) and said no more walkthrough Wednesdays, we have to go, we have to have pads on,” Dean explained. “It wasn’t a big change. We went one week without it, and we lost two games, and it’s like, ‘All right, get back in pads.’”
Rookies and Veterans Alike Embrace the Challenge
For rookies like Jihaad Campbell, the return to pads represents an essential part of their growth in the professional ranks. “It’s big,” Campbell remarked. “My feet weren’t hurting for the past few days just because the cleats weren’t on. It’s always good to get back to the morality of life. That’s what we’re doing right now.”
The team’s defensive unit has also been proactive, with individual meetings led by defensive coordinator Vic Fangio aimed at reinforcing the need for aggression and toughness. Dean emphasized the importance of restoring their competitive edge, saying, “We know we gotta pick up the nastiness and the violence, and the toughness of the group. We gotta get our swagger back. I feel like, I know, it’s going to happen.”
Reinforcing a Winning Mentality
As the Eagles return to a more traditional practice structure, the emphasis on physicality serves as a reminder of the mentality they must embody. “Last week, we didn’t have the pads on,” Dean noted. “That tells you the mentality that we’re trying to get back to, to the work.”
With a renewed focus on aggression and execution, the Eagles are set to face a pivotal stretch in their season. As players prepare to tackle the challenges ahead, the team’s commitment to reclaiming their physical identity may well determine their success in the coming weeks.
