Carson Wentz: The Future of the Philly Eagles

Carson Wentz: The Future of the Philly Eagles

As the early weeks of the NFL season passed, millions of Philadelphia sports fanatics gleamed at the thought that 2016 was the year for the Eagles.

The situation seemed clear: A modest Eagles team, led by a charming rookie quarterback and fresh off a 34-3 demolition of the Steelers, was one of the best teams in the NFL.

However, only four weeks later, the Eagles are a puzzle, dropping two in a row to the Lions and Redskins, and then winning against the then undefeated Vikings squad.

Here are my thoughts and analysis of the Eagles so far this year and going forward for the rest of the season.

Carson Wentz: The Future of Philly

In his first few games as a starter, Carson Wentz, the hyped second overall pick quarterback of the 2016 NFL Draft, mesmerized the entire football nation.

Romping the Browns and Bears was an impressive feat, but Wentz’s stellar game against the Pittsburgh was the real eye-opener. In this game, Wentz nailed targets around the field and moved perfectly outside the pocket, mimicking the likes of Ben Roethlisberger and Aaron Rodgers.

Through the first three games, Wentz failed to commit a single turnover, showing that all the hype came with great reason. Wentz has since cooled down in part due to defenses figuring out a few of his weaknesses.

It is easy to forget that he is still a rookie that is working on decision-making during games. However, he still has top-QB talent and inspiring game-managing skills that have led the Eagles to victories over some of the nation’s top teams.

It is very possible that the Eagles can make a deep playoff run, and if Wentz can overcome the challenges of being a rookie, he is sure to be its centerpiece.

The Rest of the Eagle’s Offense

As mentioned before, in order for the Eagles to be a serious contender, there needs to be improvement among the wide receivers. Despite depth at the offensive line, the Eagles lack players who can get open deep and often.

Dorial Green-Beckham and Jordan Matthews are young talents, but cannot seem to give Wentz too much to work with.  The Eagles need to trade for talent that will provide Wentz, the rookie QB, with some needed open targets.

At running back, Wendell Smallwood, Ryan Matthews, and Darren Sproles, are forming a solid committee that can get the yardage they need on the ground and in the air.

A huge factor in the offense is the blocking, and as long as the lineman can avoid injuries, the Eagles should have time and space to make plays.

Defense

Safety Malcom Jenkins himself said, “We think we’re the number one defense in the league.” After the incredible shutdown of the offensive-juggernaut Steelers in Week 3, the Eagles defense proved that it was not to be messed with.

Although there was skepticism due to a patch of weak performances, the defense returned in Week 7. The Eagles pass rush decimated the Vikings offensive line and quarterback.

Lined with playmakers like DEs Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham, the Eagles pass-rush will be a fun group to watch. The secondary, for the most part, is a different story.

The Eagles are thin at cornerback and need to turn to backup corners. These younger players may get it done, and the veteran Malcom Jenkins can lead the secondary to success.

This year’s Eagles team is one filled with talent on both sides of the ball. Yes, the “Wentz Wagon” may hit a few bumps in the road.

However, with a few adjustments and increased consistency, it can roll on all the way to the playoffs and on.