Eagles Face Trench Trouble Ahead of Crucial Week 16 Clash with Commanders
The Philadelphia Eagles are staring down a pivotal Week 16 matchup with the Washington Commanders - and they might have to do it without some serious muscle in the trenches. With a win, Philly can lock up the NFC East, but the latest injury report paints a concerning picture, especially along both lines.
Let’s start with the bad news: four key linemen didn’t practice, including three on the offensive side and one of their most disruptive defensive forces. Defensive tackle Jalen Carter continues to sit out with shoulder issues, putting him on track to miss his third straight game.
That’s a blow, no doubt - Carter’s explosiveness has been a game-changer all season. But the Eagles do have some depth to lean on.
Jordan Davis has stepped up in a big way, and both Moro Ojomo and Byron Young have held their own, giving the defensive front just enough stability to weather Carter’s absence.
The bigger concern might be on the offensive line, where things are looking downright shaky. Starters Landon Dickerson (calf/rest) and Lane Johnson (foot) were both sidelined during practice, and Fred Johnson - who’s been filling in for Lane - is also dealing with an ankle injury and didn’t practice. That’s not the kind of news you want heading into a must-win game, especially against a Commanders defense that still knows how to bring pressure.
Now, Dickerson and Fred Johnson might still find a way to suit up - there’s some optimism there. But Lane Johnson?
He’s trending toward missing his fifth straight game, and his absence is a major issue. When Johnson is out, the Eagles’ offensive rhythm tends to suffer.
He’s not just a Pro Bowl tackle - he’s the anchor of that line, and his ability to neutralize edge rushers is elite.
There were a few bright spots on the injury report, though. Saquon Barkley, who’s been battling through a few knocks this season, was a full participant in practice.
That’s a strong sign he’ll be ready to roll against Washington. Barkley hasn’t missed a game yet, and his presence in the backfield continues to be a steadying force for this offense.
Other full participants included linebacker Zack Baun (hand), running back Tank Bigsby (illness), edge rusher Jaelan Phillips (knee), and offensive lineman Cameron Williams (shoulder). Tight end Cameron Latu was limited with a stinger, but even that’s a relatively mild concern compared to what’s happening up front.
Bottom line: the Eagles are banged up where it hurts the most - in the trenches. If the final injury report confirms what we’re seeing now, they could be heading into Week 16 without three key offensive linemen and one of their best young defenders. That’s not ideal when you’re trying to clinch the division.
Still, this team has shown resilience all season. The depth will be tested again, and the coaching staff will have to get creative to keep Jalen Hurts upright and the run game moving. It’s a high-stakes week in Philly, and all eyes will be on that final injury report.