The Eagles were back on the field Wednesday, but not at their usual spot. With snow and ice covering the fields at the NovaCare Complex, the team shifted practice across the street to Lincoln Financial Field, where the stadium turf was in better shape. And while the scenery changed, the injury storylines stayed front and center - with a few key updates that could shape how the Eagles approach the stretch run.
Saquon Barkley Trending in the Right Direction
The biggest positive development? Running back Saquon Barkley was back in action.
After being listed as a non-participant during Tuesday’s walkthrough with a stinger, Barkley was suited up and practicing on Wednesday. That’s a good sign for an Eagles offense that’s leaned on his explosiveness all season.
Barkley’s return to the field - even if in a limited capacity - suggests he’s trending toward being available this weekend.
Offensive Line Depth Being Tested
While Barkley’s return is encouraging, the Eagles' offensive line continues to be a concern. Three key linemen - Lane Johnson (foot), Landon Dickerson (calf), and Fred Johnson (ankle) - were not practicing. Fred Johnson was present, but only as a spectator, which doesn’t bode well for his availability.
Lane Johnson’s absence is particularly notable. He’s missed the last four games after suffering a Lisfranc sprain in his foot back on Nov. 16 against the Lions. Fred Johnson has been filling in at right tackle, but with both Johnsons sidelined, the Eagles are digging deeper into their depth chart.
Dickerson, meanwhile, is dealing with a calf injury that he’s been managing for a couple of weeks now. He played through it against the Raiders on Sunday and even missed a practice day last week - so his absence Wednesday isn’t necessarily a red flag. But with so many moving pieces up front, the Eagles are clearly in patchwork mode.
Here’s how the offensive line looked during early warmups on Wednesday, from left to right: Jordan Mailata, Brett Toth, Cam Jurgens, Tyler Steen, and Matt Pryor. That’s a group with some experience, but not a lot of continuity - and that’s something to watch closely as the Eagles prepare for their next opponent.
Jalen Carter Still Sidelined, But Not Out for the Count
On the defensive side, Jalen Carter remained out of practice as he continues to recover from procedures on both shoulders. He’s now missed two straight games, but the Eagles chose not to place him on injured reserve - a clear indication they expect him back for the playoffs. The defense has missed his interior disruption, but the long-term plan seems to prioritize having him healthy for January football.
More Returns on the Horizon
It wasn’t just Barkley making his way back to practice. Fullback Cameron Latu, also dealing with a stinger, returned to the field Wednesday. And rookie running back Tank Bigsby, who started the week limited with an illness, was back in full participation mode.
The Eagles also saw linebacker Zack Baun (hand), edge rusher Jaelan Phillips (knee), and defensive back Cameron Williams (shoulder) all practicing after being listed as full participants earlier in the week. That trio being active is a good sign for the depth and rotational flexibility of the defense heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Bottom Line
The Eagles are juggling injuries at some critical spots - most notably along the offensive line - but they’re also getting healthier in other areas. Barkley’s return is a boost, and the gradual reintroduction of key role players on both sides of the ball is encouraging.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the focus now shifts to managing workloads, getting key players back on the field, and preserving chemistry in the trenches. The pieces are starting to come back together - now it’s about keeping them there.