Eagles Rookie Apologizes for Late to the First Day of Training Camp, Thanks A.J. Brown for “Real Leadership”

Out on the practice field, the energy was intense. But inside the building, it was all about accountability.

There was no viral video. No memes. Just a rookie learning what it really means to wear the Eagles helmet.

Rookie center Drew Kendall, who showed up 45 minutes late to the team’s first official Training Camp session, stood in front of the locker room after practice and took full responsibility. No excuses. No sidestepping. Just ownership.

“I disrespected the time and the room, and that’s on me,” Kendall said, voice steady but humble. “I appreciate A.J. for saying what needed to be said. That’s leadership. I’ll earn my place the right way, starting now.”

Veterans nodded. Coaches took note. A.J. Brown, who had earlier made headlines with his direct message — “Show up early, shut up, and go to work” — later embraced the rookie and told him, “You’ll be alright. Just don’t make it a habit.”

For a team that just lifted a Lombardi trophy, the expectations aren’t just high—they’re non-negotiable. And moments like this? They aren’t setbacks. They’re foundations.

In Philadelphia, you don’t just play football. You live it. You own it. And sometimes, the biggest wins come before the first snap.