The Philadelphia Eagles received some promising news this week, as both their schedule and injury situation seem to be trending in the right direction. With a 10-2 record, the Eagles are preparing to face the 3-9 Carolina Panthers at home on Sunday at 1 p.m. at Lincoln Financial Field. The game comes at a crucial time, as the Eagles are looking to maintain their pursuit of the best record in the NFC, currently held by the 12-1 Detroit Lions. Philadelphia is heavily favored, with a 14-point spread against the Panthers.
On the injury front, the Eagles got back a few key players. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who had missed the previous two games due to a strained hamstring, has been cleared to play. Similarly, cornerback Darius Slay returns after missing last week’s game due to a concussion. Both players are crucial to the Eagles’ offense and defense, and their return strengthens the team ahead of this matchup.
However, the Eagles will be without one of their top offensive weapons. Tight end Dallas Goedert, who has been a key target in the passing game, was placed on injured reserve earlier this week after suffering a knee sprain. To fill his spot on the roster, the Eagles signed tight end E.J. Jenkins from the practice squad. Jenkins will join Grant Calcaterra and C.J. Uzomah as the team’s active tight ends for Sunday’s game.
In addition to the Goedert injury, the Eagles have also made some roster moves to address other injuries. Fullback Khari Blasingame has been elevated from the practice squad and will make his season debut against the Panthers. On the defensive side, safety Reed Blankenship is out with a concussion, and safety Sydney Brown will miss the game due to a knee injury. To cover these absences, rookie Andre Sam has been elevated for the first time this season and will make his NFL debut.
The Eagles’ special teams will also see a change, as punt returner and wide receiver Britain Covey is ruled out with a neck injury. In his place, rookie Cooper DeJean is expected to handle punt return duties. Despite these injuries, the Eagles’ overall depth and strong performance this season put them in a good position as they prepare to face the struggling Panthers.
