Eagles injury report: Dallas Goedert returns to practice, Darius Slay & Julio Jones absent

Dallas goedert eagles vs buccaneers
Dallas Goedert has been a staple of the Eagles offense since he was drafted back in 2018 Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire

The Philadelphia Eagles have released their first injury report ahead of this week’s pivotal clash against the Dallas Cowboys. After a few days to reflect on a disappointing loss against the San Francisco 49ers, the Birds returned to the NovaCare Complex with hopes of getting back on track. There is also some good news on the injury front which should help the team rebound.

Dallas Goedert a full participant

Dallas Goedert has missed the last three games but looks primed for a return when it matters most – on the road against the Cowboys.

Goedert has 410 yards on the season and has been a key cog both in the rushing and passing attack. His absence was absolutely noticeable, with players like Jack Stoll forced into the deep end and struggling to keep up with the current.

There has been plenty of talk about a potential reunion with the recently-released Zach Ertz, but the return of Goedert might hinder them somewhat. While Ertz should only be seen as a depth signing, the Eagles’ offense has changed a lot from when he was last in Philadelphia, with a heavier focus on attacking the boundaries and fewer 2-TE sets.

Will the Eagles make a move? It’s too soon to say, but getting Dallas Goedert back is huge for an offense that’s struggled since his departure.

Defense still missing key players

Darius Slay missed practice on Wednesday with a knee injury, although he has also been listed as ‘rest’ which implies it’s nothing too serious and that he will be back in action tomorrow.

Zach Cunningham was sidelined last weekend and is now questionable. The Eagles linebacker has been another notable absentee of this defense, with the unit really struggling against the Niners. He ha amassed 47 tackles in 11 games for the Eagles this season, although he could well lose snaps to the recently-acquired Shaq Leonard, who figures to take on an increasing role as the weeks go by.

Fletcher Cox was also limited in practice having made an impact against San Francisco despite missing practice all week. It’s not often we see players miss a week of practice and then play in 64% of snaps on Sunday, but the 32-year-old has been a stalwart since his arrival in the City of Brotherly Love. The fact his injury designation is lighter than last week would imply he’s set to play this week too.

A bright spot

It should also be mentioned that RB D’Andre Swift is not on the injury report! The running back took a big hit (one of many dealt by the Niners) and exited the game after carrying the ball 6 times. There was some concern that it would be a moderate injury, but that doesn’t appear the case.

Eagles vs Cowboys

The Eagles are set to lock horns with the 49ers on Sunday night at 8:20PM ET from AT&T Stadium.

Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire