Philadelphia Eagles Regroup for 2016 Season

     It is the start of a brand new season for the Philadelphia Eagles who are coming off of one of the most eventful offseasons in team history. From the firing of Chip Kelly in late December to getting quarterback Carson Wentz in April, the Eagles look poised to have a successful season. Led by first-year head coach Doug Pedersen, the Eagles will try to erase last year’s disappointing season and rebuild as a team.

     The Eagles bring back the bulk of the team from last year, with several adjustments on offense and special teams. In 2016, the Eagles had an undefeated preseason, which improved the skills of everyone on the team including Carson Wentz, their starting quarterback. Former Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford was traded just before the season opener against Cleveland, which meant that Wentz, the second overall pick in this year’s NFL draft, was going to be the primary starter for the Eagles. Thus far, Wentz has proved himself with two victories, where he did not throw a single interception, beating the Cleveland Browns 29-10 and the Chicago Bears 29-14.

     Besides Wentz as quarterback, Caleb Sturgis returns as the kicker and Donnie Jones as the punter. Trades with other teams and free-agent signings brought guys like Dorial Green-Beckham, Nigel Bradham and Ron Brooks.

     With all of the talent from Philly’s veterans, and with Wentz’s maturation as quarterback throughout the season, the Eagles will find themselves having a good year. If all goes well, the Eagles will see their record improve to 10-6, and possibly have a playoff spot this year.

     There will be a few tough games this season against their division rivals in  New York, Dallas and Washington, whom they play twice every year. Some interconference matchups include state rival the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals.

     All of these match-ups will pose unique challenges for the Eagles because of the experience all of them bring back for the 2016 season. Nevertheless, this year will be a rebuilding year in terms of finding their identity for the next several years. A lot can happen in Philly this year, but in the world of football, you may be down, but never out.