The Eagles head coach gave some injury updates, and talked about Zack Baun, Lane Johnson, and Kellen Moore.
The Eagles had one final practice on Friday before their playoff game, and head coach Nick Sirianni spoke to reporters before heading to the field. He talked about the offense’s health, how proud he is of Zack Baun, and credited Lane Johnson for being the best offensive lineman in the NFL.
Here’s what the head coach had to say:
Injury updates
Sirianni confirmed that Jalen Hurts has cleared concussion protocol and will play Sunday. He noted that the QB has had a good week of practice — although, he later opted not to detail what Hurts had been able to do before being fully cleared since there are certain rules around that.
Regarding A.J. Brown, the head coach explained that the WR had a rest day on Thursday because of where they are in the season and they want to make sure he’s in the best shape possible for Sunday’s game.
He isn’t worried about Hurts and Brown and their connection, despite not having practiced together much over the past few weeks. Sirianni pointed out that the pair has a lot of reps together over the years, so that’s not a concern.
As for Kenny Pickett, Sirianni said they would have to see how Friday’s practice goes and how he’s feeling, but said that the QB has had a good week of practice thus far.
On signing Lewis Cine
Sirianni credited Howie Roseman and his staff for having so much information on guys, especially as they come through the NFL draft, including Cine.
“I was impressed by [Lewis Cine] out at practice yesterday. He made some good plays, and you can really see […] big guy, strong, great size, and really fast. When I was watching him on some teams yesterday. So, yeah, excited that he’s here.”
On Zack Baun being First Team All-Pro
“Highly impressive. I think what you see with Zack [Baun], is just a guy that is tough, physical, loves football. Great work ethic. Those guys that have all that, usually have an opportunity to reach their ceiling. He just keeps getting better so I don’t think we know what his ceiling is — he keeps getting better with every rep he gets on the inside at linebacker. Very versatile, the things that he can do, and he’s worked really hard at that.
Sirianni went on to credit the defensive coaches that have helped develop Baun and instill the fundamentals and details. He also gave a nod to Nakobe Dean, who has done a great job playing right beside Baun — reiterating that you can’t be great without the greatness of others.
“I’m proud of him. I’m proud of all the things that he’s accomplished his first year as an Eagle.”
On Lane Johnson
“Lane’s the best offensive lineman in the NFL. I have no doubt about that. But, you said new, and I’ve known that Lane is the best offensive lineman in the NFL from the moment I got here.”
Sirianni went on to credit Johnson for being a phenomenal leader, and for always talking and helping out the younger guys, as well as appreciating some of the depth guys who put a lot of work into the scout team.
The head coach talked about how Johnson sticks out on film when they’re in meetings, and how he’ll often pause the tape to note that the RT is one of the best football players’ in the world, and is the best offensive lineman in the world.
“He does things that are so crazy athletic for how big he is.”
Sirianni will quip to the offensive staff that Johnson is so good with his feet in pass protection, that no one is scoring on him if he’s on the basketball court.
“I love him. I love everything that he brings to this football team, as a player, as a leader, as a person. He’s a great teammate, but going back to, best offensive lineman in the world.”
On OC Kellen Moore
“I think Kellen [Moore] is very detailed in everything that he does. Very smart. Played a high level, done this at a very high level, and can also relate to the players in that aspect. Puts the guys in the good position to succeed. Can lead men — he’s a good leader of men. As I get to sit here and watch him install the offense, you can see that and say, ‘Man, he’d be great in front of [an entire] team.’”
