The Philadelphia Eagles' spring practices have come to a close, and it's time to take a critical look at some of the players who didn't quite measure up. Here's a deep dive into the six players who fell short, with a focus on their performance and future prospects.
Andy Dalton: The Backup Battle
Andy Dalton's position as the Eagles' backup quarterback is under scrutiny. While he might have been a 'winner' relative to expectations, his performance didn't impress. Dalton's arm strength is a concern, as evidenced by his inaccurate passes and multiple interceptions. If the Eagles prioritize merit over experience for the QB2 spot, Dalton faces stiff competition from Tanner McKee. The question arises: does he even deserve a spot on the roster? Cutting Cole Payton or using an extra roster spot for four quarterbacks seems like a possibility. Dalton's future in Philadelphia is uncertain, and his spring performance hasn't done much to change that.
Makai Lemon: The Early Bust
The Eagles' 2026 first-round pick, Makai Lemon, has already faced setbacks. Suffering a hamstring injury during spring practices, Lemon missed valuable opportunities to build chemistry with Jalen Hurts. The team's reliance on Lemon to replace A.J. Brown's production adds pressure. While his recovery is expected by training camp, the early injury raises concerns. Lemon's ability to stay healthy and contribute from the start is crucial for his long-term success in the NFL.
Eli Stowers: Quiet Spring, Uncertain Future
Eli Stowers' spring practices were relatively quiet, marked by an undisclosed injury that sidelined him. His receiving ability, a supposed strength, didn't get a chance to shine. It's premature to write off Stowers, but his position as a third-string tight end behind Dallas Goedert and Johnny Mundt seems likely. Stowers' contribution in 2026 might be limited, and his spring performance hasn't provided much reassurance.
Cole Wisniewski: Safety Battle Setbacks
Another rookie, Cole Wisniewski, struggled with injuries during spring practices. His participation in individual drills was a small silver lining, but he missed out on the full team drill activity. Wisniewski's chances of being a dark horse in the safety battle were dashed, and he'll start training camp behind the eight ball. The Eagles' safety position is now a competitive battle, and Wisniewski's future remains uncertain.
Ty Robinson: Young Player, Uncertain Role
Ty Robinson, a 25-year-old defensive player, found himself in a less-than-ideal position. Working with the third-string defensive line, he missed out on the starting defense reps. With players like Byron Young and Gabe Hall ahead of him, Robinson's future on the 53-man roster is in doubt. The 2025 fourth-round pick might face a challenging path to making the team, and his role in the Eagles' defense is yet to be determined.
Brandon Johnson: Limited Reps, Waived
Brandon Johnson's spring drills were limited, and his time with the Eagles has come to an end. Once on an upward trajectory, his performance didn't meet expectations. The team's decision to waive him is a clear indication of his standing. Johnson's future in the NFL is uncertain, and his spring performance didn't provide a strong case for his retention.
In conclusion, these six players have faced challenges and setbacks during the Eagles' spring practices. Their futures are uncertain, and the team's decisions regarding their roles and roster spots will shape their NFL careers. The Eagles' front office will need to carefully evaluate these players' potential and make strategic moves to build a competitive roster.
