Training camp is filled with position battles, but not all of them receive the same attention. This time around, much of the focus has centered on thePhiladelphia Eagles' wide receiver competition. There have also been conversations about a possible late safety addition by Howie Roseman asthe backend of Vic Fangio's defense remains a talking point.
There's the backup quarterback race, Tanner McKee vs. Andy Dalton. No one, however, should ignore another important battle, one quietly taking shape among the backups along the offensive line. Drew Kendall may be one of the early winners.
Per multiple sources who have attended camp, the second-year veteran has consistently found himself in a prominent role whenever the Eagles have needed reinforcements
up front. More importantly, he has continued to make the most of those opportunities. He has received rave reviews for his work.
Drew Kendall is at center after Cam Jurgens went inside early for the second straight day.
— Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) August 8, 2026
- Drew Kendall had two great reps in 1v1s today against Moro Ojomo. He's been solid this camp despite spending the majority of his time at guard. Jordan Davis said after practice that Kendall's development has been "tremendous" compared to where he was as a scout-teamer last yr.
— EJ Smith (@EJSmith94) August 7, 2026
Drew Kendall continues earning valuable opportunities
One of the clearest indicators of a player's standing during training camp isn't what coaches say. It's where they place him. Kendall has repeatedly been among the first offensive linemen called upon when the Eagles need someone to step into a larger role.
Whether filling in at guard or handling additional responsibilities with various units, his workload suggests the coaching staff has developed a growing level of trust in him. That trust isn't handed out freely, especially in Philadelphia.
The Eagles place a premium on offensive line depth, and few position groups face higher expectations than one coached by new Eagles offensive line coach Chris Kuper. Players earn opportunities by demonstrating consistency, reliability and a strong grasp of the scheme.
Kendall appears to be checking those boxes. He already had a reputation for being able to play center and both guard spots. His performance has also stood out at times against quality competition. Training camp is rarely about dominating every rep. Coaches are also looking for players who can consistently execute their assignments while minimizing mistakes, and Kendall has quietly built a strong case in that regard.
The importance of that role shouldn't be overlooked. Philadelphia's offensive line has long been one of the team's greatest strengths, but maintaining that standard requires dependable depth behind the starters. Injuries are inevitable over the course of a season, making the top reserve spots almost as important as some starting positions.
That's why Kendall's early showing at camp matters. Now, with a full NFL season under his belt, the rookie still has plenty to prove before the regular season arrives. Featured players in roster battles can change quickly in August. Still, the early signs are becoming difficult to ignore. When the Eagles have needed someone to step forward, Kendall has consistently been among the first players given the opportunity.
If that trend continues, he may not just make the roster, as expected. He may enter the season as Philadelphia's top reserve guard, a role that could place him one snap away from meaningful action on one of the NFL's most important position groups.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Under-the-radar Eagles lineman is strengthening his role on the roster
