One Eagles player to watch at every position vs. the Patriots

After two days of intense joint practice sessions, the Philadelphia Eagles will shift their focus to evaluating reserves, young players, and those competing for larger roster spots in Saturday’s second preseason game. The Eagles starters and key rookies received valuable work during those two joint practices with the New England Patriots.

Saturday night provides another opportunity for roster battles to gain clarity, and for players on the bubble to state their case for remaining with the Super Bowl hopefuls. Several Eagles strengthened their standing during the week, while others need a better showing after an uneven preseason-opening loss to Baltimore.

Here is one Eagle to watch from every position group.

Payton provided Philadelphia’s only touchdown against Baltimore, completing 4 of 9 passes for 37 yards while adding 45 rushing yards.

Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee remain focused on the backup competition, but Payton deserves a longer look. His athleticism gives the offense an element the other reserves cannot provide.

With Dameon Pierce sidelined with a hamstring injury, Shipley is attempting to secure the third running back job behind Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby. His receiving ability and value as a returner strengthen his case.

Ezukanma caught Payton’s touchdown pass against Baltimore and now enters Saturday night with one less competitor after the Eagles waived Johnny Wilson. Ezukanma needs another productive game while showing that he can contribute on special teams.

Latu’s ability to play tight end, fullback and special teams makes him one of Philadelphia’s most versatile reserves.

He is competing with Carson Steele for a hybrid role in Sean Mannion’s offense. Another physical performance as a blocker could strengthen Latu’s advantage.

Majors has worked at center and received opportunities with several offensive line combinations. The addition of Zeke Correll creates another competitor along the interior.

Hall faces difficult roster math behind Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Byron Young and Ty Robinson.

He needs to create penetration and consistently defend the run. A disruptive performance could force Philadelphia to reconsider how many defensive tackles it keeps.

Weru offers length and athletic ability, but Philadelphia has several established edge defenders ahead of him.

His clearest path to the roster may be through special teams. Weru needs to pressure the quarterback while showing that he can handle coverage responsibilities.

Campbell returned from a groin injury during camp and is competing in what Vic Fangio called Philadelphia’s deepest defensive position.

Campbell must not be a liability in the passing game and contribute on special teams to separate himself in a crowded room.

Ringo’s preseason opener represented the inconsistency that has defined his development. He committed pass interference before responding with an end-zone interception.

The physical ability is obvious. Philadelphia needs Ringo to demonstrate to take the next step as a now-veteran cornerback and special teams standout.

Sam is competing for what could be the fourth true safety position behind Andrew Mukuba, Marcus Epps and Michael Carter II.

His familiarity with the defense helps, but special teams will influence the decision. Another takeaway or open-field tackle could make it harder to expose him to waivers.

Elliott has enjoyed a productive camp overall but missed two of five attempts during the second joint practice.

Kicking inside Gillette Stadium will provide another opportunity to find his groove and his confidence before the regular season.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: One Eagles player to watch at every position vs. the Patriots