PHILADELPHIA — The Eagles’ Pro Bowl haul announced Tuesday served as a snapshot of a roster heavy on emerging defensive talent and underscored by a coaching staff intent on keeping its focus narrow as the postseason approaches.
The Birds landed five Pro Bowl selections: cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, nickel corner Cooper DeJean, inside linebacker Zack Baun, defensive tackle Jalen Carter and center Cam Jurgens. The group reflects a roster that has leaned increasingly on internal development, particularly on defense, and has been carried for long stretches by that side of the ball.
Outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips, running back Saquon Barkley, tight end Dallas Goedert, special teams player Kelee Ringo and quarterbacks Jalen Hurts were named as alternates.
“It’s a cool accomplishment,” DeJean said. “Obviously, it wouldn’t be possible without the other guys on our defense and in our facility who make my job easier.”
Mitchell and DeJean were general manager Howie Roseman’s first two picks in the 2024 draft, with Mitchell taken 22nd overall out of Toledo and DeJean 40th out of Iowa.
“Very well deserved,” defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said. “Kudos to those two guys and (defensive backs coach) Christian Parker for developing them. They deserved it.”
This is Baun’s second selection after converting from special teams last year. Carter, despite missing time, remained dominant when available, drawing attention inside and freeing teammates along the defensive front for his second nod. Jurgens’ second selection serves as further confirmation of a steady transition at center.
Notably absent was left tackle Jordan Mailata as well as defensive tackle Jordan Davis, who has had a breakout season
“He should have (been chosen), for sure,” Fangio said of Davis’ snub. “I think they need to form a committee for the Pro Bowl — get a couple retired coaches, couple retired personnel guys, couple retired players that will take pride in it. Everybody and their mother’s got a vote.”
He added that the team’s main priority is the postseason run: “It’s great for the guys, but the focus is on the playoffs.”
Carter (shoulders) returned to practice Tuesday. RT Lane Johnson (foot) and ILB Nakobe Dean (hamstring) were out.
Special teams miscues
While Pro Bowl discussions dominated headlines, the Eagles’ most immediate concerns surfaced just days earlier in their Dec. 20 win over Washington. Special teams mistakes nearly undermined what became a division-clinching victory.
The problems began immediately. On the opening kickoff, rookie returner Will Shipley put the ball on the ground, handing Washington prime field position. Later, kicker Jake Elliott missed multiple field goal attempts, continuing a difficult stretch for the veteran who has otherwise delivered repeatedly in high-leverage moments over his career.
Special teams coordinator Michael Clay reiterated that Elliott’s job status is not in question, affirming what head coach Nick Sirianni said at the beginning of the week.
“Full steam ahead,” Clay said. “Obviously love him up, keep his confidence up. He’s hit a lot of big kicks for this franchise. … There’s nobody better for us right now than Jake.”
Clay acknowledged inconsistency across the unit but pointed to meaningful progress in coverage, particularly since the middle of the season. Punt coverage, he said, has tightened significantly, and kickoff coverage has been a strength. Return-game issues, however, have persisted, including indecision and ball security lapses that put added stress on the defense.
“There’s been some ups and downs,” Clay said. “Some stuff that’s not good enough in the NFL, but I thought they’ve battled hard.”
Clay praised the impact of Britain Covey’s return to a featured role, citing improved communication and field awareness. He also highlighted Ringo, whose value has been driven largely by special teams play.
Ringo’s development as a gunner and open-field tackler has stood out, with Clay crediting his technique, speed and growing confidence. “He’s doing an unbelievable job for us,” Clay said.
Defense keeps carrying the load
The defense again proved capable of absorbing short fields against Washington, allowing just three points after early mistakes. Fangio credited both preparation and growth.
“I think they have improved,” Fangio said. “Some of that’s due to young players taking time to improve. These guys have worked at it. They’re very coachable.”
He also pointed to the value of versatility, noting that players such as Jihaad Campbell have allowed the defense to adapt without wholesale changes. With Buffalo looming and weather likely to factor, Fangio summarized the upcoming challenge succinctly.
“You got Josh Allen,” Fangio said. “That’s all you need to say.”
—
Follow Christiaan DeFranco on X at @the_defranc for the latest updates.
