Eagles Training Camp: All Eyes on Vic Fangio
With the reigning Super Bowl Champions wrapping up their first week of training camp, all eyes (and bullseyes) are squarely on the Philadelphia Eagles heading into the 2025 season. Everyone wants a shot at the champs — and the Eagles know it.
While we’re just a little over a month away from the season opener against the Cowboys on September 4, there’s still plenty of camp left — and right now, all eyes are on Vic Fangio’s young and dynamic defense.
Jihaad Campbell: Surprise Early Reps
Even though Fangio initially said the New Jersey native, Campbell, was limited and wouldn’t be ready to practice until August, the rookie linebacker was on the field this week — and barely missed a rep.
Lining up on the second team next to fellow rookie Smael Mondon Jr., Campbell even broke up a Tanner McKee pass. His activity level was notable, but expect him to be monitored more closely once pads come on this week.
When asked about Campbell’s early return, Fangio played it cool:
“I didn’t expect to see him out there, but there’s nothing earth-shattering to report. Just good to see him getting work in.”
Fangio also touched on what separates a young linebacker from the rest:
“You’ve got to know what to do and how to do it — technique, instincts, play recognition. How quick do you react? That’s very telling.”
Campbell was later spotted getting additional work with outside linebackers coach Jeremiah Washburn — just like Zack Baun. When asked if this was a sign of edge-role preparation, Fangio didn’t rule it out:
“Yeah, that’s something he could possibly do. Depending on how the roster shakes out, it might be a position where we need him.”
Cooper DeJean: He’ll be Everywhere, Man
After a breakout rookie season and that Super Bowl interception off Patrick Mahomes heard around the world (and on his birthday, no less), Cooper DeJean is being trusted with more.
The Eagles want him everywhere — and how could they not? He’s already seeing time at Safety, Nickel, and Outside Corner. And he’s handling it like a vet.
“It’s a different perspective back there,” DeJean said about playing Safety. “I’m still getting used to it, learning the position, trying to get comfortable. But it’s coming along great. We’re out there competing. I love it.”
There’s clear mutual trust between DeJean and Fangio — and the Eagles are betting on that versatility again this season.
Quinyon Mitchell: Double Coverage
DeJean isn’t the only one being stretched. Rookie Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell is also in line for an expanded role.
Fangio made it clear:
“He’s got a really good work ethic, tremendous pride, and always wants to do well. He’ll be fine.”
The goal? Have Mitchell learn both sides of the secondary. If the Eagles want to match him up with a specific receiver, he needs to be comfortable playing left and right.
“We’ll figure that out on a weekly basis,” Fangio said.
Defensively Speaking…
None of this should surprise you. Vic Fangio is known for squeezing every ounce of versatility out of his players and making opposing offenses miserable. That’s the plan — and the Eagles are fully leaning into it.
With a young, fast, and flexible defensive core, the Eagles aren’t just defending their crown — they’re putting the league on notice. Again.
