Eagles ‘Vulnerable' in Rising NFC East Predicts NFL.com
Based on offseason activity, NFL.com has compiled a ranking of the teams most vulnerable to having their spot atop the division taken this season.
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Ranked third-most in danger are the Philadelphia Eagles ... and not just because the pattern of NFC East finishes.
"... Philadelphia could be in a dogfight to hold on to the crown again this season," wrote Judy Battista.
While all three other teams improved in some capacity this offseason, many believe the Washington Commanders are the ones knocking on the door to break through for their first division championship since 2020.
"The Commanders are a team on a very rapid rise, and whatever unsteadiness Jayden Daniels showed in his rookie season should be improved in 2025, especially because he will be behind an improved offensive line and have Deebo Samuel to target in addition to Terry McLaurin."
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Washington's offense is geared up to be even more explosive than it was last season under Offensive Rookie of the Year quarterback Jayden Daniels. Last season, the rookie QB powered his team to the fifth-highest points per game average in the NFL at 28.5.
Daniels will now be more comfortable than ever and have a greater supporting cast to rely on if he falls into an unexpected sophomore slump.
This could be scary for the Philly defense to prepare for.
The Eagles were - and still are - one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, but it's hard to ignore some of the depth they lost this offseason, especially on defense. They saw five defensive backs and a collection of contributors on the defensive line depart in free agency.
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However, Philadelphia will bring back the majority of their offensive firepower, lead by quarterback Jalen Hurts and Offensive Player of the Year running back Saquon Barkley. If they all stay healthy, Nick Sirianni's offense will be prepared to get into high-scoring affairs if that's what it takes to win.
The Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants also made noteworthy moves this offseason to strengthen their chances. However, their rosters currently feature more questions than answers in how it will all work on the field.
The Commanders have shown they have what it takes. They enjoyed a taste of success last season, making an impressive run to meet the Eagles in the NFC championship game.
They'll be out for even more in 2025.
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The Eagles should be just as motivated to reclaim the East and make history as the first team to do so in two decades.
Philly will get their first crack at the division when they take on Dallas in Week 1 on Thursday Sept. 4.
Related: Eagles 'Most Underrated' Rank Tells Notable Story
Related: Inside the Eagles Most Drastic Position Group Change
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