The Eagles could be facing a huge setback when they play the Bears in week 2 as Doug Pederson revealed in a press conference today.
Coach Pederson: Leodis McKelvin has a hamstring strain and is going to be week-to-week. Zach Ertz has a shoulder injury and is week-to-week.
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 12, 2016
Coach Pederson clarifies that Ertz's injury is a rib displacement in the collarbone area. https://t.co/dkqll7t9M3
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 12, 2016
Both star TE Zach Ertz and starting corner Leodis McKelvin are listed as week-to-week after sustaining injuries in the season opener against the Browns.
Ertz caught six passes for 58 yards and three first downs yesterday, proving to be a reliable pair of hands for rookie quarterback Carson Wentz. With the Bears front seven being more intimidating the Browns, this could be bad news for the Eagles.
If Ertz is sidelined in week 2, the likelihood is that Trey Burton will take his place, allowing Brent Celek to resume his normal role. Burton proved to be a swiss-army knife in Training camp and preseason but missed the season opener with a calf injury. Pederson expects the versatile tight end to be back for next week.
Coach Pederson: It was a game-time decision yesterday with Trey Burton, but I'm confident that he'll be ready for Monday.
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 12, 2016
The cornerbacks seemingly struggled yesterday with one of the few highlights being the play of 31-year old Leodis McKelvin, prior to his injury. Against a Bears Offense that is dangerous if it establishes momentum, the Eagles could be forced to turn to Nolan Carroll, Ron Brooks and even seventh round pick Jalen Mills.
Doug Pederson did say that the team are looking at alternatives though, with one being former NDSU corner and preseason standout C.J Smith.
Eagles looking at cornerback at options, C.J. Smith is on practice squad
— Zach Berman (@ZBerm) September 12, 2016
The Eagles are light on depth at cornerback and may be forced to bring Smith into his first taste of regular season action if McKelvin is not game-ready in time to face the Bears.
This is no doubt a big setback for the Eagles, but this is where an early Bye-week could help. The team will enjoy a week off after their week 3 showdown against the Steelers, giving Ertz and McKelvin an extra seven days to recover, somewhat lifting the weight that these injuries will carry.
Mandatory Photo Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports
