NFC East Notes

Across the division, injury comebacks, depth chart battles and contract talk shape the outlook for Week 1.

NFC East Notes McLaurin Returns Cowboys Backfield Takes Shape

Washington Commanders notes include Terry McLaurin returning to practice after a stretch away for a contract dispute. He was activated off the PUP list and is back in full pads, while the team has reportedly fielded trade inquiries about running back Brian Robinson Jr. The front office, led by new GM Adam Peters, has shown openness to shakeups if it helps the roster balance cap space and talent.

Philadelphia Eagles updates center on the cornerback depth chart opposite Quinyon Mitchell. Vic Fangio says the CB2 decision remains too close to call after preseason work, with Cooper DeJean, Jakorian Bennett, and Mac McWilliams rotating with the first team. Rookie Jihaad Campbell has impressed defensively, with the coach noting steady improvement. In Dallas, Javonte Williams is emerging as a likely early backfield option ahead of Week 1, as the team weighs its rotation around Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, Jake Ferguson, and George Pickens. Meanwhile, Micah Parsons remains unsigned, keeping a cloud over the defense and the broader camp storyline.

These notes highlight a league where depth and cap realities matter as much as star power. McLaurin’s return gives Washington a clearer floor on offense, but the bigger story is how a franchise uses trades and contracts to steer its future. Washington’s openness to moves signals a GM willing to adapt to the budget and the field.

Philadelphia’s CB2 race and Dallas’s backfield decisions point to a trend: teams leaning on versatile, young players to push established plans. Fangio’s multi-player approach in the secondary tests depth under pressure, while Parsons’ contract standoff reminds everyone that off field talks can shape on field opportunities. The NFC East remains a real testing ground for balancing talent, budget and patience as the season nears.

Highlights

As rosters settle, the story of Week 1 will be written in the margins as much as in the headlines.