Eagles Focus on Offensive Risers Ahead of Training Camp

Tank Bigsby: Clear Path to Becoming a Key Complement to Barkley

Tank Bigsby leads the list because his path to more touches is clear. He was brought in from Jacksonville during the 2025 season and posted 344 rushing yards on 58 carries. His 5.9‑yard average per attempt shows the explosiveness Philadelphia likes.

Barkley remains the centerpiece, but the Eagles must manage his workload and add balance. Bigsby brings a blend of power, acceleration, and proven production that fits the system. He is not expected to supplant Barkley, yet he could secure a weekly role if the coaches lean on him.

Mannion’s first year as offensive coordinator will shape how the running game looks. If the offense uses more checkdowns or two‑back looks, Bigsby can shine as a change‑of‑pace back. His spring work gave the Eagles confidence he can be more than an emergency option.

Dontayvion Wicks: Wide Receiver Poised for Growth in Reconstructed Room

The wide‑receiver room is being rebuilt around DeVonta Smith, with Makai Lemon and Hollywood Brown joining the mix. That makes Dontayvion Wicks a player who could grow the most if he proves himself in camp. The room’s depth gives Sirianni flexibility to develop a reliable intermediate threat.

Sirianni compared Wicks to Keenan Allen, emphasizing route craft, timing, and feel over pure vertical speed. Wicks possesses size and the ability to work inside or outside the numbers. If he can turn potential into day‑to‑day consistency, Wicks may become a key addition to the offense.

A trusted intermediate target for Jalen Hurts would give the Eagles an extra option over the middle. The team needs a receiver who can win with technique rather than just athleticism. Consistent performance in training camp could lock Wicks into a prominent role.

Eli Stowers: Second‑Round Tight End With Pass‑Catching Potential

Eli Stowers was selected in the second round and comes with a unique background as a former quarterback. He offers a different receiving dimension for an already solid tight‑end corps led by Dallas Goedert. His pass‑catching ability gives the Eagles another source of yardage after the snap.

Stowers is still developing his blocking, which will influence how quickly the staff trusts him in every package. The Eagles value easy, safe throws for Hurts, and a versatile tight end can keep defenses honest. If Mannion sees progress, Stowers could earn early snaps and contribute right away.

A reliable receiving threat in the middle of the field helps balance an attack that already features speed outside. The former Vanderbilt standout’s understanding of spacing should aid his route running. Stowers’ path to the roster hinges on his ability to combine his skill set with solid work in practice.

Johnny Wilson: Health‑Dependent Depth Receiver Could Add Size and Blocking

Johnny Wilson missed the 2025 season after knee and ankle injuries ended his campaign before it began. His 6‑foot‑6, 228‑pound frame provides size that the Eagles missed last year. Wilson can block, run possession routes, and contribute in heavy personnel sets.

He is not competing to be the No. 1 receiver, but his profile offers a different option from Smith, Lemon, Brown, and Wicks. A healthy Wilson would add depth and diversity to the receiving corps. The Eagles could use his presence to create mismatches in the running game.

If Wilson looks fully healed in camp, he could secure a game‑day role that goes beyond the box score. His experience in the system would help younger players develop. The team values players who can do the dirty work and stay ready for limited opportunities.

Darius Cooper: Under‑the‑Radar Contender in Crowded Receiver Competition

Darius Cooper is one of the more intriguing under‑the‑radar names in a receiver room that has changed dramatically. The departure of A.J. Brown opened snaps, but the Eagles added multiple options instead of handing the duties to a single player. This surge of talent makes Cooper’s path to a roster spot tight but not impossible.

Sirianni highlighted Cooper as a player who can handle the dirty work on offense, a trait the Eagles prize. Receivers who can block, handle assignments, and contribute on special teams often find a niche. Cooper must show he is more than depth by stacking strong practices and proving himself in preseason games.

If he can sustain that level of work, he could push for a bigger role than many expect. The competition now includes players like Elijah Moore, Quez Watkins, Danny Gray, Britain Covey, Samori Toure, and Erik Ezukanma. Cooper’s challenge is to turn his potential into a defined job by September.

Why These Risers Matter for the Eagles’ 2026 Season

The Eagles already have franchise stars at quarterback, running back, and receiver, but training camp is about identifying the next layer of contributors. Bigsby, Wicks, Stowers, Wilson, and Cooper each bring a specific skill set that can fill gaps in Sean Mannion’s offense. Their development will determine whether Philadelphia can sustain its championship pace without A.J. Brown.

If the supporting cast proves capable of turning spring momentum into defined roles, the offense gains depth without sacrificing balance. A healthy, cohesive unit gives Hurts more weapons and allows Barkley to stay fresh. Ultimately, the marginal gains from these risers could decide the difference between a repeat and a stumble in 2026.