As Cam Jurgens steps into the role of center for the Philadelphia Eagles, he finds himself under the spotlight not just due to the position he is taking over, but also because of the shoes he is set to fill. Jurgens is replacing none other than Jason Kelce, a veteran and a cornerstone of the Eagles' offensive line for years. The comparison, as Landon Dickerson points out, is inevitable. Yet, Jurgens is forging his own path, determined to create his own legacy.
"He's gonna hear it from you guys all the time. That's gonna happen. No offense, you guys got used to that, and that's gonna be your comparison. And so, he's handling that extremely well," Dickerson shared. "It's not trying to replace Kelce. Cam's gonna make his own legacy, his own path, his own destiny. He's gonna be Cam Jurgens. His name is not Jason Kelce. He's not gonna try to be 62. He's gonna do what Cam Jurgens does."
Despite the fact that Jurgens has not yet started a game at center for the Eagles, he brings significant experience and versatility to the table. Over the last two years, he has played different positions on the offensive line, including earning the starting right guard spot last season. His performance was particularly impressive, as he didn't allow a single sack in 631 pass-blocking snaps and allowed only 18 pressures, boasting a pressure rate allowed per dropback of 4.9%.
As Jurgens transitions back to his natural position at center, he is also developing crucial communication with his teammates. Landon Dickerson, a key cog in the Eagles' offensive line himself, has observed these changes closely and has high praise for Jurgens' approach and adaptability.
"Cam's creating his own path right now. Really smart guy, physical guy, strong guy. Moves well. He's handling this transition from going from guard and a little bit of center last year to playing center right now. Communication has been good," Dickerson remarked.
The offseason has seen various personnel changes for the Eagles. Among the notable movements, Mekhi Becton's arrival marks a significant addition to the team. The ability to adjust and communicate effectively in the face of these transitions is something Jurgens is being recognized for.
Dickerson elaborated on the importance of communication, saying, "You never know what happens when guys get hurt right? You're rotating guys in. Mekhi's (Becton) coming in. We got guys stepping in at different tackle (spots). Changing up the group. Just the way he's been able to handle the communication and different guys get out there, you never know what's gonna happen."
One of the critical aspects of Jurgens' role will be his capability to set the standard in the huddle and ensure clarity and precision. This responsibility, while challenging, seems to be something Jurgens has taken in stride, earning the respect and confidence of his teammates.
"I think he's done a tremendous job so far of just (providing) clear communication to everybody and setting the standard of how things are supposed to be done in the huddle before we get them the ball. He's handling it great," Dickerson added.
For Jurgens, the task ahead is not just about stepping into a role but about stepping into the echoes of a legacy, all while crafting his own within the team's future. The Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line has long been a bedrock for the team's offensive successes, and Jurgens' commitment and performance thus far indicate he is ready to uphold and build upon that tradition.