Eagles OTAs: Nick Sirianni speaks on DeAndre Hopkins and Quez Watkins
The Eagles held their final OTA session yesterday, giving reporters one last glimpse of on-field activity before an extended summer break.
Ahead of practice, head coach Nick Sirianni spoke with the media and addressed several topics, most notably the wide receiver position. Sirianni went out of his way to praise Quez Watkins and the offseason he’s having so far:
“I love his attitude, and I’ve said this to him, and I have no problem saying it here — we have a ton of confidence in Quez Watkins,” Sirianni said. “But I kind of sense from him — he’s never said this, but oh, some people think I stink? Wait. Wait. That’s how he’s attacked every day. That’s how he’s attacked practices, and I think that he looks really good.”
After recording 647 receiving yards in 2021, Watkins caught just 33 passes for 354 yards last season. Of course, the addition of AJ Brown contributed to his regression as the entire offense had to adjust, but Watkins came up short in a number of critical moments.
Despite a down year, Sirianni continues to speak highly of the 25-year-old, hinting that Watkins will continue to be involved in the offense. In fact, Sirianni voiced his pleasure with the WR room as a whole when asked about potential interest in high-profile free agent DeAndre Hopkins.
“I’m really pleased with the group that we have,” Sirianni said. “Howie [Roseman] and myself are always looking for opportunities to make the team better, but I really love the room that we have.”
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DeAndre Hopkins was released from Arizona two weeks ago and is on the record saying he’d love to catch passes from Jalen Hurts. With AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith firmly perched atop the depth chart, one has to wonder if Hopkins would be content playing third fiddle in Philadelphia.
Consider the fact Hopkins has pending visits with Tennessee and New England, playing time appears to have a higher priority than immediate team success. Regardless, Philly didn’t completely shut down signing the three-time All-Pro, but it would be a luxury move given the current depth.
“I think we have a really phenomenal room led by A.J. [Brown] and DeVonta [Smith], who have had great spring’s,” Sirianni said. “I’m excited about Quez [Watkins], I’m excited about OZ [Olamide Zaccheaus]. I’m just excited. Britain Covey has taken another step. We have some young guys in the fold that I really like.”
Eagles players will report back to the NovaCare Complex for training camp in late July (dates to be announced) to mark the official start of the preseason.
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Happy birthday to @DeAndreHopkins!
— NFL (@NFL) June 6, 2023
Who will sign the 31-year-old free agent? pic.twitter.com/lsrgIW5WHZ
Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports
