The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl LIX victory, have commenced their Organized Team Activities (OTAs) at the NovaCare Complex, marking the initial steps in their preparation for the 2025 NFL season. These voluntary sessions saw many key players, including stars like running back Saquon Barkley and quarterback Jalen Hurts, in attendance, eager to begin the journey of defending their championship title. The atmosphere is one of focused preparation, with the team aware of the high expectations that come with being reigning champions.

A significant change for the Eagles this season is at offensive coordinator, with Kevin Patullo stepping into the role, replacing Kellen Moore. Patullo, who has been with the Eagles' staff for the past four seasons under head coach Nick Sirianni and has served as pass game coordinator and associate head coach, emphasized his strong rapport with the players and his familiarity with the team's personnel. He aims to build upon the existing offensive framework rather than institute a complete overhaul, with one report suggesting the 'new' offense might be 'more of the same, which is just fine.' Early observations from OTAs support this, indicating a potential focus on a horizontal passing game, numerous short passes and dump-offs from Jalen Hurts, frequent utilization of tight ends like Dallas Goedert, and slant routes, with receiver Jahan Dotson being a notable target. Jalen Hurts appeared sharp and comfortable executing these concepts in early drills. However, a complete picture of Patullo's offensive scheme is yet to emerge, particularly as key wide receivers A.J. Brown (who did not participate in 11-on-11s) and DeVonta Smith (absent from a voluntary session) had limited involvement in team drills.

While OTAs are voluntary and many star players were present, several notable figures were absent from at least one session, including offensive tackle Lane Johnson, safety Reed Blankenship, and wide receiver DeVonta Smith, whose absence was similar to last year's OTAs. A more significant point of discussion was the absence of defensive end Bryce Huff from Wednesday's voluntary OTA session, which was open to the media. Huff is in the second year of a three-year, $51 million contract and his performance in year one (20 pressures, 2.5 sacks in 12 games), including being a healthy scratch for Super Bowl LIX, reportedly did not live up to expectations. His absence has fueled speculation about his future with the team, especially with players like Nolan Smith (recovering from injury), Jalyx Hunt, and Azeez Ojulari reportedly taking first-team reps, and Josh Uche also potentially ahead on the depth chart. Trading or cutting Huff before June 1 was noted as not feasible, but post-June 1 maneuvers could be possible.

On the defensive side, overseen by coordinator Vic Fangio, the Eagles are evaluating talent and solidifying roles. The secondary, in particular, is undergoing some evolution. Second-year cornerbacks Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell are poised for significant responsibilities. Mitchell was observed primarily at left cornerback with the first-team defense, a shift from his typical right cornerback position. DeJean showcased versatility, playing outside cornerback in the base defense and transitioning to the slot cornerback position when the Eagles went into nickel and dime formations. Adoree' Jackson and Kelee Ringo also rotated in for first-team reps at outside cornerback, with Eli Ricks also getting work. The safety position currently presents a major question mark. With C.J. Gardner-Johnson traded during the offseason and presumed starter Reed Blankenship not present at Wednesday's practice (though his absence was voluntary), the Eagles gave first-team reps to Sydney Brown and rookie Andrew Mukuba. Tristan McCollum also mixed in, and Lewis Cine and Andre Sam received opportunities, indicating an open competition for the starting spot alongside Blankenship. This could be a position the Eagles look to bolster with external talent before the season commences. Defensive drills were described as spirited and fast-paced, with a focus on fundamentals such as tackling (on bags) and turnover-inducing techniques like the 'peanut punch'.

Several players made strong early impressions during the OTA sessions. Backup quarterback Tanner McKee looked particularly sharp and composed, reinforcing his position as QB2 behind Jalen Hurts. McKee showcased his arm talent with several good throws, including a well-placed deep ball to Danny Gray for a touchdown, beating Kelee Ringo on a go route. Undrafted rookie wide receiver Darius Cooper, a 5-11, 210-pound player from Tarleton State, also turned heads with a promising debut, making multiple catches over the middle and hauling in a long touchdown reception from McKee that required a good adjustment. Second-year running back Will Shipley was active in the passing game, making some nice catches and flashing speed, suggesting he could contend for Kenny Gainwell's role as a third-down back. Tight end Dallas Goedert, recently secured with a new contract affirming his desire to stay in Philadelphia, was heavily involved and productive, reportedly making at least five catches. On the defensive side, second-year safety Andre Sam, an undrafted free agent from LSU, made a noteworthy play by breaking up a pass from Jalen Hurts intended for Grant Calcaterra, dislodging the ball effectively.

The Eagles navigated some minor injury situations. Linebackers Jihaad Campbell and Nakobe Dean briefly left practice, presumably for rehab or treatment related to prior injuries, before returning. Offensive lineman Cam Jurgens was limited due to a back issue. Defensive end Nolan Smith, who suffered a torn triceps in the Super Bowl, participated in individual drills while wearing a brace on his left arm, a positive sign for his recovery. As previously noted, wide receivers A.J. Brown and rookie Johnny Wilson did not participate in 11-on-11 team drills. The practice session open to the media was conducted indoors, within the team's bubble facility, due to inclement weather, but maintained a high tempo. The Eagles will continue with their OTA schedule before transitioning to mandatory minicamp starting June 10. While these early spring workouts are just one step in a long journey, they offer crucial insights into the team's evolving dynamics, player development, and strategic thinking as they prepare to defend their Super Bowl LIX title and meet the passionate expectations of the Philadelphia fanbase, a challenge highlighted by players like Cooper DeJean.