Eagles C Jason Kelce Praises Heir Apparent Cam Jurgens: ‘Gifted!’
Despite few opportunities to showcase his talent during his rookie season while playing behind All-Pro center Jason Kelce, offensive lineman Cam Jurgens, the Philadelphia Eagles' 2022 second-round pick, has left a strong impression on the veteran.
“Cam is really, really talented,” Kelce said Wednesday. "Extremely physically gifted, hardworking. I mean, the strength, the weight ratio that he has, it is phenomenal. He is very, very strong for his size. Extremely explosive, smart, blue collar, lunch pale-type kid. Really, really happy.”
Additionally, Kelce voiced his assurance that Jurgens would have been prepared to step onto the field and contribute if the Eagles had required his services.
"I think I speak for everybody in the building; he was ready to play last year." Kelce said. "He could have gone in there and done an extremely good job playing center last year. I feel very confident in that."
Jurgens' limited playing time on offense during his rookie season, with just 35 snaps, was due to the consistent presence of Kelce, who started all 17 regular-season games and the Eagles' three playoff games. As a result, Jurgens essentially experienced a redshirt year.
However, the fact that Kelce decided to postpone retirement and return for his 13th season in 2023 does not necessarily mean Jurgens will not play this season.
The departure of right guard Isaac Seumalo in free agency has created an opening on the Eagles' offensive line. This vacancy presents an opportunity for Jurgens to secure a starting role on the Eagles.
Jurgens will face stiff competition, particularly from third-round pick Tyler Steen, in the battle for the vacant position.
However, an endorsement from a respected veteran like Kelce carries significant weight, strengthening the belief that Jurgens has a strong chance of securing the right guard position. As a result, there is a high probability that Eagles fans will have the opportunity to see next season why Kelce holds Jurgens in such high regard.
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