On a steamy summer night at Lincoln Financial Field, the Philadelphia Eagles soared to a thrilling 34-27 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in their preseason opener, and two players—Tyler Steen and Johnny Wilson—stole the show, silencing critics with electrifying performances that lit up South Philly.
Tyler Steen: The Anchor of the Line
As the only starter from the Eagles’ offensive line to take the field, third-year guard Tyler Steen embraced the moment with grit and determination. “Whenever you have the opportunity to play, you wanna go out there and get dirty and put stuff on tape,” Steen said post-game, his intensity palpable. And get dirty he did.
Steen’s highlight came early, on the Eagles’ third offensive snap, when he bulldozed a path for rookie running back Will Shipley’s explosive 38-yard run—the longest play of the night. “Steen had a huge block, coming off on the ’backer, No. 55 (Bengals starter Logan Wilson), and just opened it up for a Mack truck,” Shipley raved. “I was able to get through there because of him.”
After battling injuries last summer and losing the starting job to Mekhi Becton, Steen has bounced back with newfound confidence. His 316 snaps last season, a massive leap from his 71 as a rookie, showcased his growth. Head coach Nick Sirianni couldn’t hide his excitement about Steen’s progress. “Tyler’s been in there with the ones and he’s doing a really good job,” Sirianni said. “I get reports from the strength staff every day, and Tyler’s been crushing it in the weight room—strength, agility, everything. I’m thrilled with where he is and can’t wait to see him keep growing.”
Steen’s commanding presence and relentless work ethic have turned heads, proving he’s ready to anchor the Eagles’ line for the long haul.
Johnny Wilson: The Towering Playmaker
Meanwhile, rookie wide receiver Johnny Wilson, standing at a towering 6-foot-6, used his massive frame to dominate in the first half, hauling in three catches for 73 yards. His ability to win contested catches on a pair of 50-50 balls left fans and coaches buzzing. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to make plays like that,” Wilson said, a grin spreading across his face. “It felt good.”
Targeted three more times, Wilson nearly added a highlight-reel touchdown on a fade from quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in the end zone, but the ball sailed just out of reach. Ever the competitor, Wilson refused to point fingers. “When the ball’s in the air, I wanna go get it,” he said. “If the play’s not made, it’s on me.”
Quarterback Tanner McKee, who connected with Wilson on all three of his first-half catches, was full of praise. “Johnny’s the man,” McKee said. “That first go ball was underthrown, but he climbed the stairs and made a great play. He’s one of those big guys who knows how to use his body, and it’s awesome to see.”
Steen and Wilson’s performances weren’t just flashes in the pan—they were statements. For Steen, it was about proving his health and hustle have made him a cornerstone of the Eagles’ offensive line. For Wilson, it was a coming-out party, showcasing his rare blend of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability.
As the Eagles gear up for the regular season, Thursday night’s preseason opener served as a reminder: doubt Tyler Steen and Johnny Wilson at your own risk. These two stars are ready to soar, and South Philly is buzzing with excitement for what’s to come.