Tim Mc Manus Sep 4, 2026, 06:00 AM ET Close Tim Mc Manus covers the Philadelphia Eagles for ESPN. He joined ESPN in 2016 after covering the Eagles for Philadelphia Magazine's Birds 24/7, a site he helped create, since 2010.

The Eagles enter the 2026 season with several key questions. Jalen Hurts is adapting to a new West Coast‑style offense led by passing game coordinator Josh Grizzard, which emphasizes under‑center play‑action and over‑the‑middle throws. While Hurts has shown commitment and improved fundamentals, he faced double‑digit interceptions in camp, indicating growing pains.

Makai Lemon, the first‑round wideout, missed significant training time due to a hamstring injury and has yet to prove his impact. Receivers coach Aaron Moorehead encourages Lemon to mirror De Vonta Smith’s work ethic, but the rookie’s limited preseason action and a dropped pass that led to an interception suggest he will initially play a supporting role.

With the season opener against the Washington Commanders on Sept. 13 (4:25 p.m. ET, Fox) fast approaching, the Eagles must address these transitional challenges as they aim to build on a 11‑6 regular season and improve past the wild‑card loss to the 49ers.