/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56777017/Screen_Shot_2017_09_20_at_3.43.25_PM.0.png)
It doesn’t sound like the Philadelphia Eagles are sticking with Isaac Seumalo at left guard after all. Chance Warmack took first team reps in practice on Wednesday and is believed to be the team’s new starter at that spot.
O-lineman indicates that Chance Warmack was promoted to first-team left guard today.
— Tim McManus (@Tim_McManus) September 20, 2017
Other players on offense are confirming that Chance Warmack will replace Isaac Seumalo at LG.
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) September 20, 2017
Warmack himself wouldn’t say if he’s the starter or not. Some other players declined to comment. But it sure sounds like he’s the guy.
This news doesn’t come as a surprise due to Seumalo’s performance. The 2016 third-round pick has allowed eight pressures (four sacks) through just two games.
The only surprising aspect of this news is that Doug Pederson seemed to be committed to Seumalo. Earlier this week, he told reporters that “we’re not going to make any changes.” Offensive coordinator Frank Reich also suggested Seumalo wasn’t going to be benched.
But here are we.
Warmack certainly doesn’t lack experience. The No. 10 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft made 48 starts with the Tennessee Titans over the past four seasons.
The only problem is that he didn’t perform very well during those starts, which is why the Titans didn’t try to re-sign him this offseason. The Eagles decided to give Warmack a chance (no pun intended) since they employ his former college offensive line coach: Jeff Stoutland.
Warmack didn’t really do much to impress in the 2017 preseason. There was a feeling he was outplayed by veteran lineman Dallas Thomas. Despite this, the Eagles kept Warmack around and actually gave him a one-year contract extension as well. But then he was a healthy scratch during the first two weeks.
We’ll see how the change works as the Eagles prepare to face a Giants defensive line that features some good players. There’s no question Philadelphia’s offensive line needs to play better. There is question as to whether putting Warmack in the lineup will lead to improvement.