From simmering holdouts to new-look backfields, here’s what’s making headlines around the NFC East
Training camps across the NFC East are already heating up—and not just from the summer temps. With big names hitting contract walls, rookies trying to prove themselves, and jobs up for grabs, each team enters camp with a distinct tone.
Let’s run through the top headlines from each NFC East squad:
Washington Commanders
McLaurin frustrated by contract stalemate
Terry McLaurin is still Washington’s WR1—but how much longer will that last? The 29-year-old is entering the final year of his deal and says he’s “frustrated” by the lack of progress on a new contract.
The three-time 1,000-yard receiver made it clear: he wants to stay in D.C., but “it takes two to tango.” So far, there’s been radio silence on the Commanders’ side, with no talks in over a month. McLaurin hasn’t ruled out a holdout and said, “It’s kind of hard to see how I step on the field” without a deal.
Meanwhile, all eyes are still on second year quarterback Jayden Daniels, who reports say has shown a connection with newly acquired WR Deebo Samuel. But the tension surrounding their top offensive weapon isn’t exactly the start new GM Adam Peters was hoping for.
Quick Hit: Washington is retiring Art Monk’s No. 81 this fall.
— See full Commanders coverage at Hogs Haven
Philadelphia Eagles
Barkley’s reps limited, but expectations aren’t
The Eagles won’t let Saquon Barkley burn out before Week 1. After a monster 2,000-yard season, the veteran back will get a lighter load during camp, something Barkley says he’s more than fine with.
The real intrigue is on the other side of the ball. With several key defensive veterans gone, first-round pick Jihaad Campbell is getting serious looks at linebacker. The Eagles are hoping his speed and instincts help stabilize a unit in transition.
Head coach Nick Sirianni also fired back this week at narratives suggesting Jalen Hurts was “carried” last season, calling the claim BS.
Quick Hit: Philly plays games this year on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
— See full Eagles coverage at Bleeding Green Nation
Dallas Cowboys
Running back roulette, and a very quiet Dak
For once, there’s no offseason soap opera in Dallas… yet. New head coach Brian Schottenheimer is keeping camp tight and businesslike, but with no RB1 named, things could get interesting fast.
Right now, it’s a three-man battle: Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and rookie Jaydon Blue are all rotating with the starters. Coaches like Blue’s explosiveness, but nobody has seized the job.
Dak Prescott is fully healthy and reportedly developing strong chemistry with newly acquired wideout George Pickens. But in a contract year for several stars, including CeeDee Lamb, this silence probably won’t last.
Quick Hit: The Cowboys will play on both Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
— See full Cowboys coverage at BloggingTheBoys