PHILADELPHIA -- The first five questions defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz faced following Wednesday's practice were about the Philadelphia Eagles' cornerbacks.
Sensing the theme several minutes into his news conference, Schwartz quipped: “We’re really staying on the corner position, aren’t we?”
Considered one of the shakiest position groups heading into training camp, the past week of practice has done little to alleviate concerns. Tuesday was particularly rough despite the absence of receivers Alshon Jeffery (shoulder) and Torrey Smith (back spasms).
Projected starting cornerback Patrick Robinson was down on himself afterward, saying his performance was "terrible." When a reporter relayed a quote from Robinson that he was only at about 25 percent of where he wanted to be, Schwartz responded: "The way our defense was yesterday, that might have been a high number. If you would have asked me where we were yesterday, it probably would have been a lower percentage than that ... but I liked the way the guys came out today and competed."
The defensive backs did bounce back some Wednesday, particularly during team red zone drills. Robinson was able to dislodge the ball from Jordan Matthews at the last second to prevent what looked like a sure touchdown. As Matthews crashed into the metal base of the movable field goal post, the ball squirted along the turf and one defensive player exclaimed, "Get that s--- out of here!" Second-year player C.J. Smith has been working in with the first team and came up with a pass breakup of his own in the end zone against tight end Zach Ertz.
There have been some decent moments, but consistency has been lacking.
The Eagles remain active in their search for upgrades. Whether via trade or signing a player off the street, it would be no surprise if they add to the talent pool before the start of the season. For now, the coaching staff is pouring its efforts into a group that includes Jalen Mills, Robinson, Ron Brooks, rookie Rasul Douglas and Smith in hopes that one or more separate from the pack.
"We're sort of the same way as you guys: We're very interested in the cornerback competition," Schwartz said. "It's a daily thing for those guys. And we need not only playmakers but we need consistency."
Some other notes from camp:
• The 34-year-old Darren Sproles has some gas left in the tank. That much was clear when he flew down the right sideline past linebacker Nigel Bradham on a wheel route to secure a touchdown pass from Carson Wentz.
• Receiver Nelson Agholor will make a play every now and again to remind you why he was considered a first-round talent. On Wednesday during one-on-ones, he elevated to snatch a high pass in the corner of the end zone, rotated his body while floating back down to earth and then pulled off a double toe-tap to stay in bounds with Mills all over him. Agholor has had a pretty good camp to date. The question for the third-year player remains whether he can perform when it gets real.
• A pair of nice one-handed grabs Wednesday: one by Torrey Smith and another by Matthews. Matthews spent some time in the trainers tent to get stretched out. Despite knee tendinitis, he's been out here every day and seems to be getting more comfortable.
• Right tackle Lane Johnson likes to keep it light even when he's not sporting the blonde wig. During an installation period, where the offense is going up against air, Wentz threw a short, nondescript pass to rookie Mack Hollins, who jogged toward the end zone.
"Hell yeah, touchdown!" Johnson exclaimed.
• Jeffery missed a second consecutive day with a shoulder injury. Running back LeGarrette Blount once again missed practice for personal reasons. Rookie running back Donnel Pumphrey (hamstring) also did not participate. Smith returned after sitting out Tuesday with back spasms.
• Hitting returns to Eagles training camp Thursday. Practice begins at 8:15 a.m. ET.