With the first practice of Training Camp getting underway on Wednesday, the NovaCare Complex is all set up for the team. From all of the gear to food in the cafeteria, everything is handled with care, no matter how big or small.
When it comes to the songs being played during practice, it's no different.
The music that is played on the field, in the workout room, and even before meetings, isn't random. So, how are the playlists created?
Marlon Sanders, a video assistant for the Eagles, is responsible for creating and updating the playlists each day, choosing clean versions of songs and loading them into one giant playlist.
Sanders is always thinking of new songs that the team would like, and he pays attention to what songs resonate with them.
"I kind of walk through the weight room, the locker room at times and say, 'Oh, they like that song.' And I kind of jot that down and go from there," Sanders said.
Along with paying attention while being around the players, Sanders keeps an eye out on social media for any songs he thinks they would like or if anyone posts something on their own pages.
While Sanders picks a lot of the songs, players and coaches also have a say in what they want to hear each day.
Those who want a particular song to play can text their requests the night before for it to be added to the playlist.
There is a wide range of music that gets requested, from Nick Sirianni's love for DMX to Jalen Carter and his home state of Florida rapper Kodak Black, Sanders must be prepared for anything.
A.J. Brown has been known to request hip-hop pioneer Jeezy, and C.J. Gardner Johnson, who makes his own music on the side, can hear his own songs playing through the speakers of the complex.
The vibes of the songs must fit the appropriate moments, as well as set the tone for what's to come. Warmups are an important time to pick the right songs, as that can set the tone for the day going forward.
"Your stretch has to be your get up song. It's like in a sense, your attention grabber. I've already got the first one in my head for Training Camp. It's got to be a strong one," Sanders said.
It's also important for the same songs not to be repeated too often, as that can mess up the flow for players and coaches. Overall, it's about keeping the playlist up to date and fresh for the players and coaches, allowing them to get in the zone for the day ahead.
While it's unclear which song Sanders will queue up first for Training Camp, there should be no shortage of good vibes bumping throughout the NovaCare Complex this summer. – Written by Liam Wichser
