NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The Eagles are turning to a rookie safety for depth on Sunday, elevating Maximus Pulley as Drew Mukuba’s availability hangs in the balance for the matchup with the Titans.
Mukuba landed on the injury report Thursday with a knee issue, sat out practice that day and was limited Friday before being listed as questionable. If he cannot go, the Eagles will have to adjust their secondary again.
Pulley, an undrafted rookie out of Wofford, is 24 and measures 5-11, 200. He did not crack Philadelphia’s initial 53-man roster, but he stuck around on the practice squad after a strong training camp. This is his first elevation of the season, and it would set him up to make his NFL debut Sunday at Nissan Stadium.
If Mukuba is unavailable, the Eagles’ nickel package is expected to feature Marcus Epps and Michael Carter II at safety. In base defense, Cooper DeJean would move to safety, likely alongside Epps. Even with a Titans team the Eagles are expected to handle, Philadelphia is hoping Mukuba can still suit up.
The only player the Eagles ruled out was outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard, who is still working back from a pectoral injury he suffered before training camp. Greenard said this week he was “super close” to returning, but that wait will continue at least until Week 3.
Two other players drew attention on the injury report as limited participants: Jalen Carter, dealing with a wrist issue, and DeJean, who was limited with calf and abdomen injuries. Both are fully expected to play Sunday.
Last week, the Eagles elevated Britain Covey for the season opener before later signing him to the 53-man roster. Philadelphia still has one roster spot open.
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