Eagles will be without Zach Ertz on Sunday, but there is good news

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The Eagles released their final injury report ahead of this weekend’s clash with the New York Giants. There’s good news…and bad news.

The bad news

Despite reportedly pleading to play this Sunday, the Eagles are playing it safe with their franchise tight end, realizing that there is a potential playoff run they’ll need their leading receiver for. Ertz has 916 yards and 6 touchdowns on the year and while Goedert exploded for 91 and a touchdown of his own last week, expecting him to perform at that same level again is a tall-order, but one he may have to reach.

The Eagles did bring back Richard Rodgers this week as an insurance policy, which could take some weight off his shoulders and allow Joshua Perkins to be utilized as a receiver a little more.

Nelson Agholor is also out…but I think we can all agree that Greg Ward Jr. building on his NFL resume isn’t exactly the worst case scenario.

The good news

Lane Johnson didn’t participate in practice but he is listed as questionable, making him a game-time decision. Although he may not play, Johnson being this close for week 17 will likely mean he’s fully healthy should the Eagles make the playoffs.

Jordan Howard will make his return this Sunday but will do so as a rotational back behind Miles Sanders, as Pederson continues to ride the hot hand. Sanders has been unstoppable over the last month, but having Howard back in the fold after six games on the sidelines is huge for the backfield.

Jalen Mills is also questionable, but with Sidney Jones firing on all cylinders, the duo should be able to share the workload on Sunday.

And finally, that’s it. No more players out, no more players questionable. After a lengthy injury report, the Eagles can wipe sweat from their foreheads and go into Sunday with the likes of Brooks and Cox all ready to go.

Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports