It’s time for the second part of my key positional battles for the Eagles. If you missed part 1, you can read it here. Today, we’ll cover the other battles taking place in training camp and try to figure out who has the edge.

Backup QB

Players Involved: Kenny Pickett, Tanner McKee

Let me get this out of the way: I’m a fan of Tanner McKee—probably too big of a fan. I think McKee is a solid backup QB, and if Jalen Hurts were to miss a significant chunk of games due to injury, I have confidence that McKee could win some games during that span. However, I do think McKee’s back is against the wall in this battle. The Eagles traded for Kenny Pickett this spring, and while Pickett hasn’t had the career some expected, he was a first-round pick for a reason. Preseason and joint practices with the Patriots are going to tell us everything we need to know about this one. I just think McKee is a year away from truly being a backup QB on this team, even if he outperforms Pickett.

Chase’s Pick: Kenny Pickett

Right Guard

Players Involved: Mekhi Becton, Tyler Steen, Trevor Keegan, and others

Following the retirement of Jason Kelce, Cam Jurgens moves to center, creating an opening at right guard. Many people thought the Eagles would address this hole early in the draft or free agency, but they didn’t. To me, neither Becton nor Steen are particularly convincing as they seem better suited for tackle. I also think Trevor Keegan isn’t ready to start yet, though he might get there at some point this year. The other options behind these guys don’t inspire much confidence either. This seems like a prime candidate for an outside player to come in and start. As of now, it seems like the team is going to roll with Becton or Steen, but don’t be surprised if the Eagles make a move.

Chase’s Pick: Mekhi Becton

Kick Returner/Punt Returner

Players Involved: Britain Covey, Ainias Smith, Cooper DeJean, Isaiah Rodgers, Williams Shipley, John Ross

One of the most interesting battles in Eagles training camp is happening on special teams, specifically the kick returner role. I think Covey is almost a lock for the punt return spot, but will he return kicks? In the past, he has just been tasked with punts, but with the new kickoff rule in place, he has a shot to win both. Ainias Smith has struggled with drops in training camp, and I just don’t see him winning this. DeJean is out due to injury, which obviously hurts his chances (though I didn’t think he was going to win this anyway). The only person I can see giving Covey a run for his money is Rodgers. Rodgers was a solid return guy for the Colts and has the skill set to be dangerous. If he wins the starting corner spot, I think it’s safe to say he won’t be in the mix anymore.

Chase’s Pick: Britain Covey