For only the second time in team history, the Philadelphia Eagles enter the season as defending Super Bowl champions.
On Wednesday at the NovaCare Complex, the team held its first official session of organized team activities (OTAs). Despite the voluntary nature of these practices, many top players, including Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley, were in attendance.
New offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo addressed the media for the first time since stepping into the role in February. Having spent the past four years on Nick Sirianni’s staff, Patullo said his time with the team has helped him develop strong relationships with the players.
“I’ve been involved with the receivers and quarterbacks each year, sharing my knowledge,” said Patullo, who was previously the pass game coordinator and associate head coach before succeeding Kellen Moore. “Now it’s about connecting with the players on a deeper level.”
Patullo expressed excitement about working again with tight end Dallas Goedert, who was surrounded by trade speculation throughout the offseason. Goedert ultimately signed a new contract to remain with the team—a resolution he admitted didn’t come easily.
“There was a point when I missed the start of OTAs because we were still trying to sort everything out,” Goedert said.
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Second-year cornerback Cooper DeJean also noted the whirlwind nature of the offseason, but said the drive for a repeat Super Bowl title is fueling the team.
“It’s wild,” DeJean said. “Everyone in this city is passionate about Eagles football. You could feel it after the championship win. Now, they’re expecting us to do it again.”
The Eagles are scheduled to pause OTAs on Thursday and resume on Friday. The team will continue with several OTA sessions before mandatory minicamp begins on June 10.