Three Takeaways from Eagles Depth Chart Release

The Philadelphia Eagles have released their initial depth chart of 2026. With the kickoff against the Washington Commanders just around the corner, here are three big takeaways that will directly impact how this team takes the field on Sunday.

Makai Lemon listed as punt returner

As early reports and the unofficial depth chart indicated, Lemon is expected to start at wide receiver after an injury-riddled training camp. What is notable, however, is the rookie being listed as the primary punt returner.

Lemon has limited return experience, fielding just six punts in his college career at USC before muffing and recovering a punt in his preseason debut against the Bengals. While Lemon holds the top spot for now, it does not mean the job is officially his.

Britain Covey, the Eagles’ primary punt returner for the last four seasons, is no stranger to this exact early-season roster limbo after being waived during final cuts and elevated for Week 1 in 2022, 2023, and 2025 before re-signing to the active roster.

The QB2 battle remains unsolved

One of the most talked about position battles in Eagles training camp was between Tanner McKee and Andy Dalton to see who would back up Jalen Hurts. Neither quarterback separated from each other throughout preseason, which is emphasized in the depth chart, with both McKee and Dalton listed as the second quarterback in the depth chart.

Both backup quarterbacks put up weak numbers in preseason. McKee and Dalton combined for under 450 passing yards and three touchdowns on 89 attempts, with neither quarterback breaking 5.0 yards per attempt or an 80.0 passer rating.

Nick Sirianni previously told reporters that he feels comfortable with both options, but the Eagles will eventually need to designate a clear QB2, relegating the other to the emergency QB3 role inactive on game days unless an injury strikes.

Explaining why the Eagles opted to roster four quarterbacks, Howie Roseman emphasized that the position is the most valuable in the league, highlighting how the Green Bay Packers were able to trade QB Kyle McCord for a sixth-round pick. Roseman noted that the entire QB room holds short- or long-term value, meaning either backup could still be moved in a potential trade.

Marcus Epps wins starting safety battle

Epps won the starting safety job that was vacated when Reed Blankenship signed with the Houston Texans this offseason. While Cooper DeJean will play safety when the defense is in base packages, Epps will have a role in nickel.

Last season, Epps started the final four regular-season games and the Eagles’ playoff loss after Andrew Mukuba suffered a season-ending ankle injury. Epps was stout against the run, earning a 77.6 run-defense grade from PFF, but struggled in pass coverage with a below average 49.4 coverage grade.