The Philadelphia Eagles got back to their winning ways on Sunday, blowing out the Las Vegas Raiders thanks to multiple standout performances in Week 15.
Let’s take a closer look at whose stock is pointing up in this week’s stock report.
STOCK UP
OC Kevin Patullo: It was against one of the worst teams in the NFL. But the offense was more than competent thanks in part to Patullo diversifying looks. Patullo has been dragged all season for being too predictable. But the Birds mixed in RPOs, designed QB runs, goal-line wrinkles and more crossing routes. There was also a heavy emphasis on under-center snaps, which opened up the run and play-action pass. That’s what the offense should look like.
OG Tyler Steen: It hasn’t been a smooth season for Steen. The first-year starter at right guard who took over for Mehki Becton had a string of rough performances early in the year. Losing right tackle Lane Johnson next to him didn’t help the 2023 draft pick’s development, either. But Steen had maybe his most complete game of the season on Sunday. He was sturdy in pass protection and cleared space in the ground game. Jeff Stoutland will want to see more of that.
LB Zack Baun: Baun finished fifth in the NFL Defensive Player of the Year voting last season. Playing up to that level again would have been difficult. Baun has been solid for most of the season. But he used Sunday as an opportunity to remind people, if they forgot, that he’s a special player. He was all over the field, and his INT covering Brock Bowers was impressive.
EDGE Jaelan Phillips: Phillips has recorded only one sack in six games since the Eagles acquired him from the Dolphins. But he has made his presence felt on the front — and week by week, is making his case to secure a contract extension in the offseason. Phillips had two batted passes at the line of scrimmage and two QB hits against Las Vegas. His work off the edge is constantly opening up opportunities for others in the trenches, too.
LB Nakobe Dean: We had Dean on the “stock down” list for some under-the-radar mistakes he made on “Monday Night Football.” He responded with an unbelievable performance against the Raiders, logging eight tackles (two for loss) and quickly diagnosing Vegas’ passing game. He’s playing his way to a big contract, with the Eagles or elsewhere.
QB Jalen Hurts: Hurts bounced back from a four-interception game vs. the Chargers to have as many touchdowns as incompletions vs. Las Vegas. He was darn near perfect.
STOCK DOWN
OT Fred Johnson: Johnson’s stock pointing down is a reflection of his opportunity to start nearing its end. All-Pro tackle Lane Johnson is eyeing a return to practice this week, which means Fred Johnson will return to a reserve role soon enough. Overall, he played OK in five starts. But the Eagles will be welcoming Lane back with open arms.