The Philadelphia Eagles resumed practice on Sunday, blending rest for veteran players with more playing time for emerging talent as they get ready for their preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals on August 7. The reigning Super Bowl champions maintained a careful, strategic pace during their 2025 training camp to protect player health while assessing depth across the roster.
Assessing the Severity of A.J. Brown’s Hamstring Injury
A.J. Brown, the team’s star wide receiver, was sidelined on August 3 due to a hamstring injury sustained during practice two days earlier. While Brown did not take part in drills, he remained on the sidelines, watching the team’s activities. The Eagles have maintained a cautious approach throughout camp, focusing on avoiding aggravating injuries rather than rushing players back prematurely.
NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo indicated that the situation is not alarming, stating,
“I do not sense a five-alarm fire at all on this one.”
He went on to clarify,
“He stood and watched practice. This [injury] is something that they’re going to want to keep a close eye on and make sure it’s not something that he aggravates.”
Garafolo noted that Brown might miss a few more practice sessions but insisted the injury is
“no big deal for the defending champions.”
Philadelphia appears to be taking a preventative stance to ensure the injury does not worsen as camp progresses.
Other Eagles players are showing positive signs of recovery. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who has been limited by a back issue, along with safety Andrew Mukuba (shoulder) and edge rusher Nolan Smith (concussion), have all returned to full participation following their recent absences.
Potential Impact of Brown’s Absence on Eagles’ Passing Game
A.J. Brown has been integral to Philadelphia’s offensive success since joining the team in 2022, earning consecutive Pro Bowl nods and playing a major role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl 59 victory. His connection with quarterback Jalen Hurts is a key element of the offense, and the coaching staff is expected to hold him out of full-contact drills until his hamstring is fully healed.
Brown’s blend of physicality and precise route running sets him apart as the offense’s most dangerous threat. Losing him, even temporarily, removes a primary playmaker and the critical ability to stretch opposing defenses, which opens up scoring opportunities for the entire unit.
His skill in winning contested catches and drawing defensive focus offers space for the Eagles’ other weapons, which is crucial for a team with realistic championship ambitions. Ensuring Brown’s health before the regular season remains a top priority to support the team’s goals for another deep postseason run.
In Brown’s absence, younger receivers like Jahan Dotson and Johnny Wilson are receiving more snaps, gaining valuable game experience. The Eagles will conduct two more practice sessions before their first preseason game, using these opportunities to evaluate players and continue refining their roster and game plans.