As we near the start of the Eagles’ 2020 training camp, we’re taking a closer look at some key position battles to watch this summer. We already took a look at the No. 2 cornerback spot, running back, linebacker and receiver.
Up today: Right guard
Names to know
Jason Peters, Matt Pryor, Isaac Seumalo, Jack Driscoll, Nate Herbig
What to watch
This is a race but Peters has a significant head start.
The Eagles suffered a brutal blow last month when they found out Pro Bowl right guard Brandon Brooks tore his Achilles and will miss the entire 2020 season.
Initially, it looked like this would be a simple next-man-up scenario. After all, Matt Pryor filled in for Brooks last January in the playoff game against the Seahawks and was OK. He’s been with the Eagles since 2018, when he was a 6th-round pick out of TCU and the coaching staff seems to like him.
And maybe Pryor would have done a fine job. But the Eagles found another way.
The Birds brought back 38-year-old Jason Peters and are planning on playing him at right guard after over a decade of playing left tackle for the organization. It’s a big move.
Peters came into the league as an undrafted tight end in Buffalo but went on to have a Hall of Fame-caliber career as a left tackle, making nine Pro Bowls, including seven with the Birds. But playing guard will be different. He has to switch positions and sides.
But the Eagles think Peters will be able to handle it. And if anyone can, they’re probably right, it’s him.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on Peters in training camp because the cancelation of preseason games means he won’t get game action at right guard until the season begins. I tend to think Peters will be able to handle it, but if not, Pryor needs to be ready.
And if something ever happens to Andre Dillard this season, guess who’s going back to left tackle. In that case, the Eagles will need to have another option ready to go.
Prediction
I think Peters will be the opening day right guard. Sure, he offers depth at tackle, but they didn’t bring him back to be a backup. He’ll have to learn how to play right guard on the fly, but the Eagles clearly think that’s their best option.
Subscribe and rate the Eagle Eye podcast:
Apple Podcasts / Google Play / Stitcher / Spotify / Art19
Click here to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.