The Philadelphia Eagles entered the season expecting continuity along the offensive line. Two weeks into the campaign, however, the unit has been forced to adapt. One recent talking point is a shuffle of the starting unit that included a position switch. Cam Jurgens moved over to the left guard, and Drew Kendall took over at center.
That adjustment has drawn more attention to the left side of the O-line and its anchor. Two starters continue settling into new responsibilities. Some questions remain about whether the adjustment should be permanent. Game-day performance will always be the ultimate measuring stick. In the meantime, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni believes both players are approaching the transition the right way.
Speaking with reporters
Saturday ahead of Monday night's matchup with the Chicago Bears, Sirianni was asked how Kendall and Jurgens looked after another full week of work together. His answer focused less on results and more on the preparation required to make those adjustments successful.
"It's always important that when we can, we have those pads on and so they can work those combinations while also understanding that you've got to know and learn how to practice without pads. They've done a nice job both those days, really taking advantage of the days that we had the pads on and then also just the communication and all the things and still being able to go through it without the pads on."
The comments offered a glimpse into what the Eagles are emphasizing behind the scenes as the offensive line continues developing chemistry. One recurring theme in Sirianni's answer was communication. That obviously remains a key part of the process.
While physical talent is essential up front, offensive line play often comes down to timing, trust, and understanding how five players operate as a unit. Those elements are developed through repetitions on the practice field long before they show up on Sundays. Sirianni believes Kendall and Jurgens have embraced that process.
"They've had a nice week, and we'll see how that pays off. It's about the preparation, giving yourself the best chance to win each week. It doesn't guarantee anything. It just gives you the best chance. I feel like those two guys, where they are playing in new spots, have had a good week of preparation, and they got to have another good day today."
The Eagles will get a better sense of that progress when they face theChicago Bearson Monday night. Regardless of the outcome, Sirianni's comments suggest the organization remains encouraged by what it has seen from Kendall and Jurgens behind the scenes. For a team still searching for offensive consistency, continued growth along the interior offensive line could prove as important as any highlight-reel play from its skill-position stars.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Nick Sirianni likes how Drew Kendall and Cam Jurgens are adjusting
