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As the Philadelphia Eagles began gearing up for their Week 5 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the team released its initial injury report on Wednesday, revealing that 11 players are dealing with various ailments. Among the most notable absences from practice were running back Saquon Barkley, wide receiver DeVonta Smith, and center Drew Kendall, who were among seven players who did not participate.
The timing of these injuries is particularly challenging for Philadelphia, coming on the heels of a trade that sent center Cam Jurgens to the Baltimore Ravens and just one day after offensive tackle Lane Johnson declared his retirement. The offensive line, already undergoing a major reshuffle, now faces additional uncertainty with Kendall's knee injury. Kendall had stepped in at center after Jurgens shifted to left guard, making his availability crucial as the team searches for a new starting combination without Jurgens, Johnson, and the injured Landon Dickerson.
Also on the report, offensive lineman Fred Johnson was limited due to a knee issue. Rookie Markel Bell, who started at right tackle against the Rams, is expected to get the first shot at replacing Lane Johnson.
Barkley and Smith were sidelined with hamstring injuries. Barkley exited Sunday's loss to the Rams, while Smith was inactive for that game. Wide receiver Hollywood Brown remains out with an ankle injury, leaving the Eagles to keep a close eye on three key offensive contributors as the week unfolds.
The defense also had its share of absences. Linebacker Jihaad Campbell (knee), safety Marcus Epps (groin), and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard (ankle) all missed practice. Linebacker Zack Baun was limited with a concussion, and cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, who left the Rams game with a knee injury, was also limited. Tight end Dallas Goedert was limited with a knee injury, adding another offensive player to monitor before Sunday.
Wednesday's participation report leaves several lineup decisions up in the air. Kendall's progress will be especially critical as the Eagles aim to build continuity along their revamped offensive line.
Key Analysis
The Eagles' injury situation is compounded by recent roster changes, particularly on the offensive line. With Jurgens traded and Johnson retired, the team is relying on less experienced players like Kendall and Bell. Their health and performance will be pivotal in maintaining protection for the quarterback and opening running lanes. The defense also faces challenges with key players banged up, which could impact their effectiveness against the Jaguars. As the week progresses, the Eagles' coaching staff will need to make tough decisions to field a competitive lineup.
Here is the full Wednesday injury report:
- Saquon Barkley – Hamstring – Did not practice
- Hollywood Brown – Ankle – Did not practice
- Jihaad Campbell – Knee – Did not practice
- Marcus Epps – Groin – Did not practice
- Jonathan Greenard – Ankle – Did not practice
- Drew Kendall – Knee – Did not practice
- DeVonta Smith – Hamstring – Did not practice
- Zack Baun – Concussion – Limited
- Dallas Goedert – Knee – Limited
- Fred Johnson – Knee – Limited
- Quinyon Mitchell – Knee – Limited
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles list 11 players on first injury report following Cam Jurgens trade.
Originally reported by yahoo.