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Eagles Announce Seven Captains With No Special Teams Representation

PUBLISHED Sep 4, 2026, 8:05 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 24

Center 100%

Sources: 24

The Philadelphia Eagles announced their seven team captains for the upcoming National Football League season on Friday, notably omitting any player from the special teams unit. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, running back Saquon Barkley, wide receiver DeVonta Smith, offensive tackles Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, linebacker Zack Baun, and defensive tackle Jordan Davis were selected to lead the squad. This configuration marks a reduction from the eight captains named for the previous season. Most significantly, veteran kicker Jake Elliott, who wore the captain patch representing special teams for four consecutive years, did not retain his leadership role following a challenging prior season where his conversion rate dipped below eighty percent. While many professional football franchises traditionally designate at least one special teams leader, teams occasionally forgo this to protect specialists from extra game day obligations. Head coach Nick Sirianni and the organization finalized the leadership group ahead of their opening match.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On September 4, 2026, team officials finalized the captain selections.
On September 5, 2026, the franchise officially announced seven captains.
On September 5, 2026, analysts noted zero special teams players.
On September 4, 2026, Jalen Hurts retained his captaincy role.
On September 4, 2026, Saquon Barkley secured another leadership position.
On September 4, 2026, Jordan Davis achieved his first captaincy.
On September 4, 2026, kicker Jake Elliott lost leadership status.
On September 4, 2026, head coach Nick Sirianni released rosters.
On September 4, 2026, media outlets highlighted the missing specialist.
On September 5, 2026, supporters debated the roster decision online.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Fans across Philadelphia discussed the surprising absence of special teams.
Possible long-term US impact: Franchise leadership will navigate pressure regarding specialist performance all season.
Most affected groups: Philadelphia Eagles professional players, coaching staff, and loyal franchise supporters.
Reader Priorities: Monitoring official team announcements and subsequent player performance updates closely.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 24
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 24

Explain Framing

Left: Evidence insufficient as sports roster news lacks political ideology. Center: Center outlets objectively report roster announcements and player selections neutrally. Right: Evidence insufficient as sports roster news lacks political ideology.