Stew Milne – USA TODAY Sports
As Camp Kelly stretches into it’s third week, its unorthodox nature has been on display for all to see.
The uptempo practices set to music were certainly expected after what first-year head coach Chip Kelly put his team through this spring. However, it has certainly been a much less intense camp than many expected without any tackling to the ground being allowed.
That could change as early as Tuesday when the New England Patriots make their way to South Philly for three joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles, leading up to Friday night’s preseason opener at Lincoln Financial Field.
Count veteran defensive end turned outside linebacker Trent Cole among the many players looking forward to facing off with another team for a few days.
“Practicing against the Patriots will be exciting,” Cole said after Monday’s open practice at Lincoln Financial Field. “You can turn it up to that extra level. I’m really looking forward to playing against another team.”
In a camp that has seen very little competitive 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 time compared to previous years under former had coach Andy Reid, these practices should be a decent gauge of where this team is in advance of the preseason opener.
DeSean Jackson has looked wildly impressive this summer, but he is running against a secondary composed of the likes of Curtis Marsh, Trevard Lindley, Brandon Boykin and Cary Williams. With a secondary that is in a state of flux — much less a lack of contact — it’s hard to judge just how impressive Jackson’s early performances have been.
With Bill Belichick‘s team in town this week, Kelly will get a much truer glimpse of his team’s status as they face off against live competition.
“When I was with Tampa Bay last year,” wide receiver Arrelious Benn explained Monday. “I had the chance to practice against the Patriots. It was a real fun time, it’ll be a real fast and physical practice. We’ll have full contact and it will be fun.”
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