Eagles training camp kicked off just over a week ago, and if the first six practices are any indication, Jalyx Hunt is about to have a monster year for Philly. The dude has been absolutely living in the backfield from the jump, and opponents better be ready for it.
Defense Is Already Dominating
Seriously, Hunt has been a menace. After making a huge leap from Year 1 to Year 2, leading the 2025 Eagles in both sacks *and* interceptions, he looks poised to take another massive step forward. We’re talking next-level stuff here. He feasted on Fred Johnson at right tackle in one practice, and that was after giving Jordan Mailata trouble on the other side the day before! You need to buy all the Hunt stock you can get your hands on, because no one should be surprised when he produces double-digit sacks this season. He’s just getting started!
And Hunt isn’t the only defensive standout. Jalen Carter, who inked a record-breaking contract extension before camp even began, is already proving that investment was legit. Carter has been straight-up dominating the Eagles’ offensive line. It’s clear he’s buying into the whole “paid for what’s next, not what’s past” message. Expect Carter to have the best season of his career in 2026. The D-line is going to be a problem for opposing offenses.
Hurts and Wicks Stepping Up
On offense, Jalen Hurts, who’s looking slimmed-down, has been sharp. It hasn’t been perfect, for sure, with Vic Fangio’s defense getting the better of them on some days. But Hurts has been without key guys like Lane Johnson, DeVonta Smith, and Makai Lemon for multiple practices. Despite those absences, he’s turned in some sessions where he looks totally in control, embracing Sean Mannion’s new offensive direction. The arrow is definitely pointing up for Hurts as he enters what feels like a pivotal season for him.
With Smith and Lemon sidelined by hamstring injuries, Dontayvion Wicks has stepped up big time as Hurts’ top target. The former Green Bay Packers wideout looks ready to take on that WR2 role in Philly. He’s been great at getting open and making tough contested catches. Drops were an issue for him in 2024 with nine of them, but they haven’t been a problem in camp so far, knock on wood! ESPN’s J. Fowler reports that people around the Eagles are “really excited about that player” and that Wicks is “really developing nicely.” That’s huge for the passing game.
It’s only been six practices, and just one fully padded one, so it’s super early in camp. But the early returns on guys like Hunt and Carter tearing it up, plus Hurts finding his rhythm despite missing key weapons, are seriously exciting. There’s plenty of time left for these guys to keep sharpening up and get ready for the grind ahead!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleeding Green Nation.
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