Philadelphia Eagles 2012 Training Camp Preview

Jul 24, 2012 - 7:41 PM (Sports Network) -

REPORT DATES: July 22nd (rookies), July 25th (veterans)

SITE: Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA

CAMP OBJECTIVES: The Eagles head to Lehigh focused on atoning for a disappointing 2011 campaign filled with sky-high expectations, though this season's optimism has been tempered somewhat by the absence of a pair of important contributors due to injury. All-Pro left tackle Jason Peters will likely miss the entire year after rupturing his Achilles tendon in the spring, while steady defensive tackle Mike Patterson will be held out all of camp while recovering from January brain surgery. Patterson's unavailability will provide an avenue for 2012 first-round pick Fletcher Cox to showcase his skills and make a case for a starting role on a defense that will be fielding two new linebackers, with ex-Texan DeMeco Ryans slated to man the middle after coming over via trade and rookie second-rounder Mychal Kendricks the favorite to take over on the strong side. On offense, Philadelphia will be hoping free- agent signee Demetress Bell can stay healthy and transition quickly to line coach Howard Mudd's zone-blocking scheme as Peters' replacement and third-year pro Mike Kafka can continue to make strides as the next in line to Michael Vick at quarterback. Finding someone who can ease the workload on star running back will also be a high priority. 2011 fifth-round choice Dion Lewis enters camp with an edge in experience, but rookies Bryce Brown and Chris Polk will have a chance to make an impression as well.

PRESEASON SCHEDULE (All Times Eastern):

Aug 9 - vs. Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 20 - at New England, 8 p.m. Aug 24 - at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 30 - vs. N.Y. Jets, 6:35 p.m.