Eagles Get Key Defensive Reinforcements Ahead of Monday Night Clash with Chargers
As the Eagles prepare for a primetime showdown against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday night, they got some encouraging news on the injury front - and it starts with edge rusher Jaelan Phillips. After entering the week limited due to a concussion, Phillips was back on the practice field Friday, a strong sign he’s trending toward playing in Southern California.
That’s a big boost for a Philly defense that could use some extra juice off the edge. The Chargers, already reeling from the loss of both starting tackles, have been a turnstile up front, giving up consistent pressure all season.
And with Justin Herbert expected to play just days after surgery on his non-throwing hand, the Eagles’ pass rush could be in position to feast. Herbert’s been pressured more than any quarterback in the league this year - not exactly the ideal setup when you’re recovering from surgery and facing a physical Eagles front.
Injury Updates: Carter Out, Lane Johnson Still Sidelined
While Phillips’ return is a welcome development, not all the news was positive. Defensive tackle Jalen Carter will miss this week’s game after undergoing a procedure on both shoulders Monday.
He’s officially week-to-week, and his absence leaves a noticeable void in the interior. Carter’s disruptive presence has been a key part of the Eagles’ defensive identity, and without him, they’ll need others to step up to contain Herbert and the Chargers’ ground game.
On the offensive side, right tackle Lane Johnson missed practice again Friday as he continues to recover from a Lisfranc sprain suffered against the Lions. Johnson has already missed the last two games, and Fred Johnson is expected to make his third consecutive start at right tackle. While Fred has held his own, losing a veteran like Lane - especially against a Chargers team that still boasts some pass-rushing talent - is never ideal.
Landon Dickerson Gets a Breather, Others Trending Up
Left guard Landon Dickerson was also absent from practice, but this one isn’t cause for alarm - he was simply given a rest day. Brett Toth stepped in at left guard during practice reps, but Dickerson is expected to be ready to go for Monday night.
There’s more good news on the injury front, too. Linebacker Zack Baun (hand), wide receiver Jahan Dotson (toe), and wideout Xavier Gipson (shoulder) - all of whom started the week limited - were back on the field Friday.
Gipson, who missed last week’s game after injuring his shoulder against the Cowboys, looks like he could be trending toward a return. In his absence, Britain Covey was elevated to the 53-man roster to handle punt return duties.
Secondary Shake-Up: Epps Could Be Key to Stabilizing Safety Spot
The Eagles also saw safety Marcus Epps (shoulder) and tackle Myles Hinton (back) back at practice after both had their practice windows opened from injured reserve. Epps in particular could be a critical piece for a secondary that’s been in flux. If he looks solid throughout the week, there’s a real chance he slots in as the starting safety alongside Reed Blankenship on Monday night.
Last week, Sydney Brown got the nod at safety with rookie Drew Mukuba sidelined due to an ankle fracture that landed him on IR. Brown showed flashes, but it was a mixed performance overall. Epps, a veteran with a deep understanding of the system, could bring some much-needed stability to the back end - especially against a quarterback like Herbert who can still sling it, even with a banged-up hand.
Final Thoughts
With Phillips trending toward a return and Epps potentially rejoining the starting lineup, the Eagles are getting healthier in key spots at just the right time. The Monday night matchup against the Chargers presents a prime opportunity to capitalize on a depleted offensive line and a quarterback playing through pain.
But with Carter out and Lane Johnson still sidelined, Philly will need its depth to show up in a big way. The pieces are starting to fall into place - now it’s about execution under the lights in L.A.