The Philadelphia Eagles are getting ready for their first preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, but injuries are causing the team some problems.
Five key players will likely miss the game due to different injuries, which could affect how the Philadelphia Eagles football team performs and prepares for the upcoming season.
These injured players include linebackers Oren Burks and Brandon Smith, wide receiver Parris Campbell, safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and cornerback Mekhi Garner.
However, Gardner-Johnson’s shoulder issue is the most concerning injury. He was one of the Eagles’ major offseason signings, signing a three-year, $33 million contract.
Given Gardner-Johnson’s history of upper-body injuries, this latest setback is particularly problematic for the Eagles.
Burks, who joined the Eagles on a one-year, $2.5 million deal, has now missed nine consecutive practices due to his knee injury. Meanwhile, Smith is also sidelined, missing four straight practice sessions.
These absences could seriously affect the depth and readiness of the Eagles’ linebacker corps as they gear up for the season. Fans and analysts are closely monitoring the Eagles injury report to see how these developments unfold.
Campbell’s groin injury is another blow, especially since he was expected to be Philadelphia’s WR3 this season. After a disappointing 2023 with the New York Giants, Campbell was looking to rejuvenate his career with the Eagles, but this injury could derail those plans.
Garner’s hamstring issue is also a concern, as it might jeopardize his chances of making the final 53-man roster, especially given his limited playing time last season.
Despite these Eagles injury update concerns, the Eagles won their preseason opener against the Ravens, 16-13. This game allowed the rookies to step up, especially since many starters, like Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith, didn’t play due to the wet field conditions.
Among those rookies, players like Quinyon Mitchell and Will Shipley made the most of their opportunities.
Mitchell played well in the first half, breaking up a pass and nearly securing an interception.
Although he missed the interception, his aggressive play was a positive sign for the team’s defense.
Other rookies, like edge rusher Jalyx Hunt and linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr., also delivered strong performances, with Trotter recording a sack and tying for the team lead with five tackles.
On offense, rookie running back Will Shipley stood out by scoring the Eagles’ first touchdown with a 7-yard pass from Kenny Pickett. Shipley and rookie Trevor Keegan, who played the whole first half, showed they are ready to contribute this season.
With Jalen Hurts sidelined, the spotlight turned to the battle for his backup between Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee.
Pickett started the game and led a successful 75-yard touchdown drive in the first quarter but struggled to keep that momentum going. He finished with only 89 yards and couldn’t sustain long drives.
McKee took over in the third quarter and led a 17-play drive that resulted in a touchdown, but he was inconsistent overall, completing just 6 of 16 passes for 39 yards.
The battle for the backup quarterback position is still ongoing, with neither Pickett nor McKee securing the spot. The upcoming preseason games will be crucial for both as they try to earn the role behind Hurts.
As the Eagles move forward, the health of their injured players and the continued development of their rookies will be necessary for their success.
Thus, the next preseason game against the New England Patriots will allow veterans and newcomers to prove themselves and secure their roles for the regular season.
