Carson Wentz increases workload but still awaits clearance for contact at Eagles training camp

PHILADELPHIA - Quarterback Carson Wentz took the field Thursday as the Eagles kicked off training camp, and he participated in 11-on-11 drills for the first time since his 2017 season ended when he tore ligaments in his left knee. 

However, coach Doug Pederson said he will not set a timeline for Wentz’s return to the starting role. 

Wentz, who was an MVP candidate prior to his injury last December, on Thursday ran the second-team offense behind Nick Foles, who stepped in and led the Eagles to the  Super Bowl.

Wentz wore a brace on his left knee but still ran, moved and rolled out with apparent ease. 

“I feel good,” he said. 

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Wentz isn’t cleared for contact and maintained his goal remains to open the season as the starter. 

But Pederson reiterated that there’s plenty of time to prepare Wentz without rushing him back prematurely. 

“Six weeks is a long time,” Pederson said. “We have a plan.”

Asked about the timeline, Wentz said, “I’m not really sure. I’d probably say it’s September 6. That’s the goal, but we’ll see.”

He added, “We have a good plan in place, and as an athlete you want to be out there, but it’s not my call, it’s not coach’s call. It’s a culmination of things.”

Follow Mike Jones on Twitter @ByMikeJones.