Doug Pederson met the media following the Eagles disappointing loss to the Redskins on Sunday. One of the main topics of conversation was naturally the Offensive line situation and what the future holds for fifth round pick Halapoulivaati Vaitai.
When asked directly if Vaitai will start on Sunday, Pederson gave a very clear answer. “Yes. I felt like he had a slow start but settled in nicely.”
"He gives us the best opportunity to win right now. Therefore hes going to play & gain valuable experience week in & week out"-Pederson on V
— 97.5 The Fanatic (@975TheFanatic) October 17, 2016
"Listen (Big V) will be a lot better this week. He's got a full game under his belt" – Doug Pederson on Big V
— 97.5 The Fanatic (@975TheFanatic) October 17, 2016
Vaitai faced a tough task in his NFL debut, stopping established pass-rusher Ryan Kerrigan from wreaking havoc. Big V allowed two sacks, two hurries and a hit on Carson Wentz in the Eagles 29 passing attempts in a game that was anything but kind to the fifth round pick. But Doug Pederson showed confidence in Big V and insists that he will get better as time goes on.
Elsewhere, Doug Pederson also shed some light on the Eagles injury situation.
Pederson: Ron Brooks left calf contusion, Kelce, Kendricks rib contusion, Marcus Smith right groin strain. Logan left groin strain wk to wk
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) October 17, 2016
With Logan being to week, it likely means a heavier workload for Beau Allen and Destiny Vaeao against the Minnesota Offense, but an injury to Jason Kelce makes Wisniewski’s position as a backup Center more valuable as opposed to potentially replacing Vaitai.
The injury to Ron Brooks could also see a debut for undrafted cornerback and preseason standout C.J Smith against the Vikings..but with the Eagles light on depth at the position as it is, Malcolm Jenkins and Jaylen Watkins could also be called upon.
The Vikings are undefeated and coming off of a Bye-week and with some key players injured and their status uncertain, it could be an even tougher Mountain to climb for Doug Pederson’s Eagles..but his trust in Big V at RT is going to play a huge part in scaling that Mountain.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
