Cam Jurgens is stepping into some rather large shoes this season, as he transitions into the role of center for the Philadelphia Eagles, succeeding the formidable Jason Kelce. Despite the significant responsibility that comes with filling Kelce's role, Jurgens is determined to carve out his own legacy on the team.
Transitioning to Center
Over the past two NFL seasons, Jurgens has accumulated experience on the offensive line, playing 43 snaps at center. However, he has yet to start a game at the position for the Eagles. His versatility on the line became apparent last season when he earned the starting right guard spot. Remarkably, he did not allow a single sack in 631 pass-blocking snaps and only permitted 18 pressures. His pressure rate per dropback stood at an impressive 4.9%.
This year, Jurgens is transitioning back to his natural position at center amidst various personnel changes within the Eagles roster, including the arrival of Mekhi Becton. It’s a challenge, but one that Jurgens seems to be embracing with the full support of his teammates.
Building Communication and Chemistry
Landon Dickerson, a fellow Eagles lineman, praises Jurgens for handling the transition well, highlighting his intelligence, physicality, and strength. "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 remarks.
The importance of effective communication on the offensive line cannot be overstated, especially when rotating in new players like Becton. Jurgens has been recognized for his ability to communicate clearly and set the standard in the huddle. As Dickerson puts it, "Just the way he's been able to handle the communication and different guys get out there, you never know what's gonna happen. 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."
Creating His Own Legacy
While comparisons to Jason Kelce are inevitable, Jurgens appears unfazed by the expectations that come with replacing a legend. Dickerson elaborates, "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. 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."
In many ways, Jurgens is in an enviable position. He possesses the foundational skills, the physical attributes, and the mental acuity necessary for success. Moreover, he has the support of teammates like Dickerson in his corner, ready to offer guidance and encouragement as he transitions into this critical role.
As the Eagles navigate through offseason changes and prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Cam Jurgens. His ability to seamlessly transition back to center and maintain the standards set by his predecessor will be crucial for the team's offensive success. However, with his demonstrated skill set and the strong support system around him, Jurgens seems well-prepared to rise to the occasion and establish himself as a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line.