The New England Patriots will head on the road to take on the Philadelphia Eagles to kick off Week 2 of the preseason on Thursday, August 19th. After a few joint practices this week, both teams will get another chance to see how their young quarterbacks will can perform in a game situation in what should be an intriguing stand-alone preseason game.
Quarterbacks
Patriots rookie quarterback Mac Jones should see the field a decent amount again after making his professional football debut last week as he continues a battle with Cam Newton for the starting job. We should see both of them under center on Thursday night. Philadelphia knows their quarterback is going to be Jalen Hurts, and he figures to see quite a few snaps in Week 2 of the preseason.
Running Backs
The top four running backs on the Patriots’ depth chart saw the field in the first week of the preseason, so there’s no reason to expect any of them to be held out. Rhamondre Stevenson had a huge game in his first as a pro including a 91-yard run and two touchdowns. Philadelphia appears to have their running back situation figured out as Kerryon Johnson was released following last week’s game. The Eagles’ top back Miles Sanders sat out last week’s game due to the coaching staff not wanting to tip their hand in how they handle the running game. We’ll see if he takes the field Thursday.
Wide Receivers
Philadelphia’s first round pick Devonta Smith has been out the last couple weeks with an MCL injury, though he returned to team drills this week. There is no word on whether he will be available on Thursday. The Patriots’ top wideouts should be available on Thursday night.
Tight Ends
New England might have the top tight end duo in the NFL, but they’re both suffering through injuries that occurred during practice. Hunter Henry remains out with a shoulder injury, and Jonnu Smith sprained his ankle earlier this week. It would appear neither of them take the field. Philadelphia has a talented tight end group with Dallas Goedert and Zach Ertz, and they both saw time in Week 1.