5 candidates to become Eagles training camp darling of 2024

5 candidates to become Eagles training camp darling of 2024 originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

The training camp darlings hold a special place in my heart.

You know the guys. Paul Turner, Hank Baskett, Henry Josey, Rasheed Bailey and more.

These are the guys who end up becoming fan favorites at training camp with a few spectacular plays. We’re not talking about star players here, we’re talking about guys who end up with a brief cult following.

Here are five candidates to be this year’s training camp darling:

TE Albert Okwuegbunam

The Eagles pulled off a trade for Okwuegbunam just before the start of the 2023 season so we haven’t yet seen him in practice. Chances are, he’s going to impress. While Albert O isn’t known for his blocking, he is a talented pass catcher.

Just before final cuts last year, Okwuegbunam exploded in the Broncos’ preseason finale. He had 7 catches on 8 targets for 109 yards and a touchdown. We didn’t get to see much of that in the season. Okwuegbunam spent most of last season as the Eagles’ fourth tight end and he was targeted just once with the Birds.

But he’s back for another season after signing a new one-year contract. He will have to fight to make the roster but a few big plays this summer and he’ll have everyone pulling for him.

WR Ainias Smith

The Eagles’ fifth-round pick out of Texas A&M put out some fun tape with the Aggies last year. There are a bunch of highlights and there’s no question that Smith has some quick twitch in his play.

In 2023, Smith caught 53 passes for 795 yards and 2 touchdowns with the Eagles. He also has a history of playing running back and that shows up once he gets the ball in his hands. There are times with YAC plays where he looks more like a running back. He also returned punts in college and should get a chance to showcase that skill in preseason games.

WR Johnny Wilson

We included both Eagles’ Day 3 receivers. Of the two, Wilson is probably a better bet to become a fan favorite…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/5-candidates-become-eagles-training-110000391.html

Author : NBC Sports Philadelphia

Publish date : 2024-07-17 11:00:00

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