As the Eagles gear up for Saturday’s clash against the Commanders in Landover, there’s a bit of good news on the injury front - especially in the trenches.
Landon Dickerson and Fred Johnson both returned to the practice field on Thursday, a positive sign for an Eagles offensive line that’s been navigating its fair share of bumps and bruises. Dickerson, who’s been managing a nagging calf issue for a couple of weeks now, got a rest day on Wednesday but was back in action at the NovaCare Complex.
This has become something of a weekly routine for the Pro Bowl left guard - limited early in the week, then suiting up on game day. It’s a testament to his toughness and the team’s careful management of his workload.
Fred Johnson, meanwhile, is expected to hold down the right tackle spot for the fifth straight week in place of Lane Johnson, who remains sidelined with a foot injury. Fred’s been a steady presence in relief, and while he’s been dealing with an ankle issue of his own, it doesn’t look like that’ll keep him off the field this weekend.
As for Lane Johnson and standout rookie Jalen Carter, both missed the entire week of practice and are trending toward being officially ruled out when the final injury report drops later today. This would mark Lane’s fifth straight missed game and Carter’s third.
The Eagles, however, still expect both key pieces to return in time for the playoff push - and that’s the bigger picture here. Getting them healthy for January football is the priority.
Elsewhere on the injury report, fullback Cameron Latu was back at practice Thursday after being limited Wednesday with a stinger. That’s another encouraging sign for the Eagles’ depth on offense.
And the rest of the squad? All systems go.
Saquon Barkley (stinger), Zack Baun (hand), Jaelan Phillips (knee), Tank Bigsby (illness), and Cameron Williams (shoulder) were all full participants again on Thursday. That group staying healthy and available adds some much-needed stability as the Eagles try to close out the regular season strong.
Bottom line: while Philly’s still missing a couple of heavy hitters, the team is getting healthier in key spots, especially up front. And with the playoffs looming, that’s exactly the kind of momentum they need.