The Philadelphia Eagles are heading into their regular-season finale against the New York Giants with a concerning injury report that could impact their performance and playoff preparation.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts remains in concussion protocol following his Week 16 injury against the Washington Commanders. He missed last Sunday’s victory over the Dallas Cowboys and did not participate in Wednesday’s walkthrough. In addition to the concussion, Hurts is also dealing with an injury to his left ring finger. Head coach Nick Sirianni stated that the team is closely following medical advice and taking Hurts’ recovery on a day-by-day basis.
“We’re listening to the doctors and following their guidance,” Sirianni said. “We trust the process, and our focus is on Jalen’s health and safety.”
Hurts isn’t the only high-profile player dealing with health issues. Backup quarterback Kenny Pickett is also sidelined with a rib injury, leaving the Eagles potentially turning to third-string quarterback Tanner McKee for the Giants matchup. McKee showed promise in limited action last week, throwing for 54 yards and two touchdowns on three completions.
Adding to the list of injuries, several Eagles starters appeared on Wednesday’s injury report, many listed under “rest.” This indicates a strategic move by the coaching staff to preserve key players for the postseason.
One silver lining for the Eagles is the potential return of tight end Dallas Goedert. Goedert, who has been out since early December with a knee injury, was designated to return, opening his 21-day practice window. Sirianni expressed optimism but maintained a cautious approach regarding his availability.
“Dallas is an important part of our offense, and having him back on the field is a big boost,” Sirianni noted. “We’re excited to see his progress, but we’re not rushing anything.”
In nine games this season, Goedert has tallied 38 receptions for 441 yards and two touchdowns, highlighting his importance to the Eagles’ passing attack.
Meanwhile, Eagles star receiver DeVonta Smith closed out 2024 in spectacular fashion both on and off the field. Smith delivered a fantasy football performance to remember, scoring 30 points by catching six passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Dallas Cowboys.
Off the field, Smith proposed to his girlfriend, Mya Danielle, on New Year’s Eve, and she happily accepted. Danielle shared the news on Instagram, posting photos of the proposal and her new engagement ring, writing, “Went on a ROCK climbing adventure with my forever tonight.”
The couple, who share a 1-year-old daughter, Kyse, also recently announced they are expecting another child. Smith’s engagement and personal milestones have made for an unforgettable end to the year for the 26-year-old receiver.
As the Giants game approaches, the Eagles are balancing the need to stay competitive with the imperative of keeping their roster healthy. With playoff positioning secured, the focus is shifting towards ensuring the team enters the postseason at full strength, even if that means resting starters for the regular-season finale.