The Philadelphia Eagles have released their second injury report ahead of this week’s divisional clash against the New York Giants. After a month of disappointing play, Nick Sirianni and the Eagles have a chance to get things back on track this weekend. But will they be at full strength?
Eagles injury report:
There’s good news and bad news.
The bad news is that 5 players missed practice on Thursday.
Darius Slay underwent minor surgery last week and while he isn’t going to be placed on IR, is likely going to be out until the end of the regular season. It’s no surprise the veteran didn’t practice and I don’t think that will change in the coming few days.
Zach Cunningham’s status is interesting. He was featured on the injury report throughout most of the last two weeks but still went on to play in 64% of snaps in the loss to Dallas. However, he was inactive against the Seahawks. Keep an eye on his status over the next two days. The Eagles are clearly being careful with the linebacker, who has had a lingering knee injury for a while now.
If he does miss time, it could mean an extended look for recently-signed Shaq Leonard, who did anything but shine on Monday.
Landon Dickerson was another Eagle who missed practice on Thursday. He underwent thumb surgery on Wednesday, meaning that there’s a chance the Birds could be without both Dickerson and Jurgens. As a result, we could well see Tyler Steen and Sua Opeta suit up on Christmas Day. On that note, Jurgens was a full participant today which is great news for the Eagles.
DeVonta Smith missed practice with a knee injury, but he’s likely just being held back to verge on the side of caution. This isn’t unusual for Smitty, who has frequented the injury report over the last month but still played a key part in the offense.
Avonte Maddox set to return soon?
Down in the depths of the NovaCare Complex last week, a wild Avonte Maddox was spotted trotting around his natural habitat.
The Eagles’ DB was placed on IR with a torn pec earlier in the year, but it looks as though he’s trending towards a possible postseason return.
He’s now listed on the injury report as a FULL PARTICIPANT!
To say that the team has missed his presence would be an understatement. Getting Maddox back in any capacity would be huge for a defense that has struggled routinely against the pass. If he can come back sooner than the playoffs, even better! Because right now, Darius Slay’s injury is forcing Eli Ricks and Kelee Ringo to split duties. Giving the Eagles a reliable nickel corner to work with would undoubtedly ease the pressure on the outside.
Eagles vs Giants
The Eagles are set to lock horns with the Giants on Christmas Day at 4:15PM ET from Lincoln Financial Field
Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire
