Eagles Defense Dominates Second Joint Practice as Riq Woolen Silences A.J. Brown

Key points

• Riq Woolen rebounded from a poor previous day by recording two interceptions against A.J. Brown, including a potential 100-yard pick-six and a strip-sack that led to a diving interception by Jalyx Hunt.
• Eagles defensive line starters Moro Ojomo and Jordan Davis generated multiple tackles for loss and disrupted the Patriots' run game, while Jalen Carter did not practice.
• Jalen Hurts threw two touchdown passes to Hollywood Brown and Darius Cooper in the final scrimmage, contrasting with the Eagles' offensive struggles during earlier non-scrimmage periods.
• A.J. Brown and Jalen Hurts were seen chatting after practice, their first public interaction since Brown was traded to the Patriots in July.
• Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio indicated that cornerback Kelee Ringo is showing improvement and may be on the verge of securing a roster spot.

Background

This is the second of two joint practices between the Eagles and Patriots in 2026. The first session on Wednesday saw the Patriots' defense dominate, with Drake Maye leading the offense and the Eagles' defense struggling. The teams are scheduled to play a preseason game on Saturday at Gillette Stadium.

How outlets are covering it

PhillyVoice emphasized the Eagles' defensive dominance, highlighting Riq Woolen's standout performance and the physical play of the defensive line. The Philadelphia Eagles' official site focused on Quinyon Mitchell's professional demeanor, noting that he and Brown did not engage in trash-talking during practice. The New England Patriots' official site highlighted the challenges their offensive line faced against the Eagles' defensive front, noting that their pass protection held up but their run defense started slowly. Bleacher Report focused on the personal dynamic between A.J. Brown and Jalen Hurts, noting their first public interaction since the trade.

Why it matters

The Eagles' defensive performance in the second joint practice suggests they are well-prepared for the regular season opener against Washington. The strong showing by Riq Woolen and the defensive line indicates that the Eagles' defense is a key strength for the 2026 season. The preseason game on Saturday will provide another opportunity to test the teams' readiness.

What to watch

The Eagles and Patriots will play a preseason game on Saturday at Gillette Stadium. The Eagles will then prepare for their regular season opener against Washington on September 13 at Lincoln Financial Field.