Nick Sirianni Furious, Punishes Rookie for Sneaking Off to Party After First Preseason Win

The Philadelphia Eagles’ preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals ended in celebration—at least for most of the roster. But for one rookie, the night took a turn that might have just cost him his place on the team.

While the rest of the squad focused on recovery and film study, one young player decided to take his victory off the field—straight to a party. According to team sources, the rookie failed to report for scheduled postgame recovery protocols and was spotted out late into the night.

Head Coach Nick Sirianni didn’t mince words when addressing the issue in Sunday’s media availability:

“This isn’t a win for partying—it’s a win for proving you belong here in September. Fall below our standard, and you’re gone. That standard is the only way we get back to the Super Bowl.”

The incident struck a nerve in a locker room built on accountability. Veterans were said to be “disappointed” and “frustrated” at the lack of professionalism, especially so early in camp. Multiple players noted that Sirianni’s response wasn’t just about one player—it was about setting the tone for the entire year.

The rookie in question—whose name the Eagles initially kept under wraps—was later confirmed by sources ESPN to be Hollin Pierce, an offensive lineman out of Rutgers. Pierce made history as the first Rutgers OL to earn All-American honors (Second Team, 2024) since 2009 and was also named Second Team All-Big Ten the same year. He started all 13 games at left tackle in 2024, bringing size, consistency, and leadership to the Scarlet Knights’ front. His decision to skip mandatory team activities for a night out may have dealt a serious blow to his chances of making the 53-man roster.

For a team coming off a Super Bowl victory and determined to defend its title, Sirianni made it clear: off-field decisions matter just as much as what happens between the lines. And in Philadelphia, the standard isn’t up for debate.