The Philadelphia Eagles players report to training camp on Tuesday, July 25, 2026, following a season defined by championship success and significant roster shifts. The squad arrives for the new campaign after securing a Super Bowl LIX victory in early 2025, navigating a period of transition that includes the loss of star wide receiver A.J. Brown to New England.
Baun anchors defensive transition
The defensive unit enters the 2026 season centered around linebacker Zack Baun, who transitioned from a situational pass rusher for New Orleans to an All-Pro mainstay in Philadelphia. During the 2024 regular season, Baun recorded career highs including 150 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and five forced fumbles, earning him a spot as an AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year finalist. His postseason performance was equally impactful; during the Super Bowl LIX run, he tallied 32 tackles and intercepted Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes to help secure a 24-0 halftime lead.
Defensive leadership under scrutiny
The Eagles' defense faces internal pressure to replace the production of Nakobe Dean, who departed via free agency. As the team prepares for 2026, Baun remains a focal point as a team captain and defensive leader under coach Vic Fangio. Beyond his defensive stats, Baun's 2024 season was notable for his efficiency, finishing with a 90.1 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus, the highest among NFL linebackers.
Offensive identity shifts post-Brown
The Eagles' offensive identity is undergoing a significant change following the departure of A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith, known as the 'Slim Reaper,' enters the 2026 season as a primary target. Smith has established himself as the franchise's all-time leader in postseason receiving yards with 595. He famously recorded a 46-yard touchdown pass, dubbed 'The Dagger,' during the Super Bowl LIX victory over Kansas City.
Smith remains cornerstone receiver
Smith's role is expected to expand as he continues a streak of high-level production, having been one of only four NFL players with at least seven receiving touchdowns in three consecutive seasons. Despite recent roster changes, Smith has maintained his approach, stating that his methods remain unchanged even after Brown's exit. His 2024 campaign included 883 receiving yards on 68 receptions.
Hurts leads championship core
Quarterback Jalen Hurts enters the 2026 training camp as the established leader of a high-powered offense. Following his Super Bowl LIX MVP performance—where he threw for 221 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 72 yards—Hurts continues to lead the league in several categories, including 52 rushing touchdowns since 2021. His career winning percentage since 2022 stands at .787, ranking second only to Patrick Mahomes.
Hurts expands community impact
Beyond the field, Hurts has expanded his influence through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, which launched in 2024 to support youth and community initiatives. He was also recognized as the 2024 Philadelphia Citizen of the Year for his outreach efforts. Looking ahead to March 2026, Hurts is set to release a children's book titled 'Better Than a Touchdown,' intended to inspire resilience in young readers.
Depth at quarterback position
The quarterback room also features depth provided by Tanner McKee, who was selected with the 188th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. The former Stanford student, who famously paused his football career to complete missionary service in Brazil, served as a backup during the Super Bowl LIX championship run. In 2024, McKee appeared in two games, completing 30 of 45 passes for 323 yards and four touchdowns.
