Days have passed, and people are still talking about the Philadelphia Eagles escaping Week 1 with a victory. As is often the case in the NFL, the result was more important than the style points. There were encouraging moments. There were frustrating moments. Most importantly, plenty of room remains for growth.
That shouldn't shock anyone. That is often the case early in the regular season.
September is often when players settle into roles, units develop chemistry, and confidence begins to build. One strong performance can change a narrative. One productive afternoon can create momentum that carries into the rest of the season.
As the Eagles travel to Nashville for a Week 2 matchup against the Tennessee Titans, Philadelphia will be favored. Several
players and position groups have an opportunity to take an important step forward.
Cooper DeJean, defensive back
Week 1 wasn't the type of performance Eagles fans have come to expect from Cooper DeJean. He battled through some adversity and wasn't quite as impactful as usual.
The good news is that the NFL schedule doesn't allow players much time to dwell on a rough outing. Vic Fangio remains confident. Tennessee's receiving corps has talent, but the Titans are still searching for consistency at quarterback.
If DeJean can return to playing fast and instinctive football, Week 2 could provide an opportunity to regain some confidence. He should remind everyone why he has become such an important piece of Philadelphia's defense.
DeVonta Smith, wide receiver
DeVonta Smith remains one of the most polished route runners in football, and Philadelphia knows it. Unfortunately, Smith wasn't a major focal point for stretches of the opener.
That could change quickly against Tennessee. The Titans are coming off a difficult defensive performance against the New York Jets, and the Eagles should have opportunities to attack through the air. If Tennessee devotes extra attention elsewhere, Smith could be in line for a much larger afternoon.
Chris Kuper and the Eagles' offensive line
This isn't about one player so much as an entire unit looking to build momentum. The offensive line did not perform up to its usual standard in Week 1, and now it faces another challenge with Landon Dickerson heading to injured reserve.
That creates an opportunity for Chris Kuper's group to show its resilience. Philadelphia's offense works best when the running game controls the tempo, and Jalen Hurts operates from a clean pocket. A stronger showing in Nashville would go a long way toward restoring confidence in a unit that expects much more from itself.
Andrew Mukuba, safety
The Eagles are still learning exactly how much Mukuba can give them, but the early signs remain encouraging. Philadelphia's defense would certainly welcome a few extra possessions while the offense continues to find its rhythm.
That's where Mukuba's instincts and playmaking ability become valuable. Whether it's breaking up a pass, forcing a turnover, or capitalizing on a mistake, he has the skill set to swing momentum quickly.
Makai Lemon, wide receiver
The Eagles remain confident in Makai Lemon's future, and there is no reason for that to change after one week. Young receivers often need time, opportunities, and a few successful moments to get rolling.
Nashville could give Lemon a chance to start building that confidence. Nobody expects him to become a featured target suddenly. Still, a couple of meaningful plays could build momentum and reinforce the belief that he can become a valuable contributor as the season unfolds.
Final thought
Momentum can come in many forms. Sometimes it's a breakout performance. Other times it's a player regaining confidence, earning additional opportunities, or simply taking another step forward.
The Eagles have plenty of stars who can carry the spotlight. Week 2, however, may be remembered for what happens around them. If DeJean, Smith, Mukuba, Lemon, and Philadelphia's offensive line build on their opportunities, the Eagles could leave Nashville with more than a win. They could leave with several important pieces moving in the right direction.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles players who could create momentum in Week 2 vs. Titans
