Ben VanSumeren Poised for Bigger Role in 2025

Let’s dive into the Philadelphia Eagles links …

Ben VanSumeren’s Recovery

Eagles player review: FB Ben VanSumeren edition – PhillyVoice
Towards the end of the 2024 season, Ben VanSumeren sustained an unspecified knee injury. In a conversation during Super Bowl media night, he confirmed it wasn’t an ACL tear and assured that he would be fit for the 2025 training camp. With practicing in the spring, he’s expected to fully participate in training. VanSumeren is set to continue his role as a key special teamer, and I anticipate an increase in his responsibilities as a fullback in 2025, possibly exceeding 100 snaps this season. It will be intriguing to see if the Eagles utilize him more as a receiver from the backfield too.

Assessing the Eagles’ Roster Moves

Eagles schedule preview: Washington Commanders – BGN
The front office deserves credit for acknowledging the need for roster improvements despite past success. The effectiveness of their new signings remains uncertain. Deebo Samuel, while intriguing, has inconsistent stats, and Laremy Tunsil may only be a moderate improvement over Brandon Coleman. Trading for a player from a team that recently changed its coaching staff raises concerns, especially since Tunsil was notably penalized last season. The signing of Javon Kinlaw was broadly criticized, and the trade for Marshon Lattimore, who has seen more injuries than games played, appears to be another misstep.

A.J. Brown’s Hall of Fame Prospects

In Roob’s Eagles Observations: A way-too-soon look at A.J. Brown’s Hall of Fame chances – NCBSP
Currently, it’s challenging for wide receivers to enter the Hall of Fame due to the high number of players accumulating impressive statistics. While previously celebrated players like Lynn Swann made it despite modest personal stats, many elite receivers now, including Steve Smith and Reggie Wayne, remain unacknowledged in Canton. A.J. Brown, however, has impressive numbers: 446 catches, 7,026 yards, and 49 touchdowns in just six seasons. His averages rival Hall of Fame greats like Jerry Rice and Randy Moss, positioning him favorably for future accolades.

The Eagles’ Offseason Strategy

The Importance of Risk – Iggles Blitz
General Manager Howie Roseman hoped for a seamless transition for Bryce Huff from a situational rusher to starting outside linebacker, which didn’t materialize. Instead, he made strategic moves by signing free agents Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari for better alignment with team needs. With the 31st overall pick, Roseman also took a calculated risk in drafting Jihad Campbell, who possesses top-tier talent but faced health concerns. This gamble may yield significant rewards as Campbell has the potential to excel at the professional level.

Recent Additions to the Eagles

Spadaro: Eagles Offseason Review, Part 2: A strategic approach to Free Agency – PE.com
“Our goal is to continually enhance the talent and depth of our team,” stated Roseman. Recently, the Eagles successfully acquired edge defenders Joshua Uche, Azeez Ojulari, and Patrick Johnson, while bolstering their backfield with running back A.J. Dillon. Additional competition at tight end was introduced with Harrison Bryant and Kylen Granson. The offensive line saw improvements with the signings of Kendall Lamm and Matt Pryor and the trade for Kenyon Green, alongside the arrival of Avery Williams, an asset on offense and special teams.

Assessing Super Bowl Contenders

Which teams are legitimately in the Super Bowl window for 2025? – PFT
For fans seeking change, it would be refreshing to see teams other than the Chiefs and NFC’s Eagles, 49ers, or Rams make it to the Super Bowl. Since 2017, these teams have consistently dominated their conference spots. In total, just seven franchises have accounted for the 16 Super Bowl berths across eight seasons, underscoring the need for new challengers.

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