The 2017 NFL season kicks off tonight as the Kansas City Chiefs play the New England Patriots. Eagles fans, we have to wait three more days to take on the Washington Redskins, but at least we can scout the Chiefs, who are next week's opponent. Here's what else you need to know for Thursday, September 7.
1. Check Out The Eagles 2017 Season Kickoff Video
Odds are, if you're reading this you're already committed.
2. Derek Barnett Ranks Fifth In Rookie Poll
NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah ranked the top 25 rookies heading into Week 1. Derek Barnett came in at fifth on the list.
"The Eagles have a very talented D-line group, but Barnett is going to force his way onto the field," Jeremiah wrote. "He showed natural pass-rush ability in the preseason and his effort has been off the charts."
3. Was Terrelle Pryor Almost An Eagle?
During his conference call with Philadelphia reporters, wide receiver Terrelle Pryor said that the Eagles showed some interest in free agency. Pryor eventually signed a one-year deal with Washington.
"I believe they expressed interest during the time of free agency," Pryor said. "Something happened in-house over there. I don't exactly know what. My agent probably knows more details about that."
Fran Duffy has a good All-22 breakdown of how Pryor will be utilized in the Redskins' offense.
4. Carson Wentz Weighs In On Alshon Jeffery Vs. Josh Norman
There are some really good individual matchups this Sunday, but the headliner is Pro Bowl wide receiver Alshon Jeffery making his Eagles debut against another Pro Bowl player in cornerback Josh Norman.
"He's a big target, dynamic guy, that's had success when he is faced with challenges. This will be a great test for him with Josh, following him," head coach Doug Pederson said.
"He's done it in the past on Alshon. It will be a great opportunity for him. But he's a big, physical guy that we got to pick our spots, obviously, and still want to get him the ball and get him some touches and utilize him in the offense."
How about the man who will be delivering Jeffery the ball?
"May the best man win," Wentz said on Wednesday.
5. Who Is The Eagles' Breakout Fantasy Player?
ESPN's Mike Clay writes that it's the quarterback.
"Wentz's targets are much improved over the 2016 group. Add Philly's terrific offensive line, and Wentz is well-positioned for a big step forward," he stated.
6. Burying The Lead?
The entire Eagles 53-man active roster practiced on Wednesday. There are some names on the injury report, but everyone should be good to go for Sunday.
7. Practice Makes Perfect
