Injury Report Suggests Eagles Depth Will Be Tested in Week Four
The undefeated Philadelphia Eagles are back on the road heading into Week Four against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Both teams are looking to maintain their perfect records, but Philly’s extensive injury report may shape the game. With many starters in danger of sitting out this Sunday, the Eagles' roster depth will be tested early in the season. The outcome of the game could depend as much on the “next man up” as it does on stars like Jalen Hurts.
The midweek injury report update looks particularly troubling for Philadelphia’s defense. Linebackers Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell did not participate in practice this week, leaving an already thin group even more depleted. Campbell is managing a triceps injury that he is taking “day by day,” while Baun was spotted with a large knee brace. Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson was also among those sitting out after suffering a groin injury in last week’s win over the Rams. On the offensive side of the ball, veteran right tackle Lane Johnson was limited in practice with a neck stinger, the same issue that forced him out after the first drive in Week Three. With three starters on defense and a rock on the offensive line all left questionable, the Eagles are facing a critical test of roster depth heading into Sunday’s clash with the Buccaneers.
After Lane Johnson exited the game last week, Matt Pryor stood in for the team’s anchor right tackle. Pryor struggled through 15 snaps before he was replaced by Fred Johnson. Fred Johnson did a much better job at keeping the pocket clean—slowing LA’s elite pass rush helped the offense to push its tempo and mount a comeback to claim victory. With Johnson proving to be a worthy stand-in, the broader issue remains within the defense. Looking ahead, Vic Fangio shared that Kelee Ringo will get his opportunity at some point, and he must be ready for it. With Jakorian Bennett on IR and Jackson questionable, Ringo should be prepared to see significant snaps at cornerback this week. With Campbell and Baun questionable, and Nakobe Dean still out with a torn patellar tendon, the linebacker depth is extremely thin. This pressure could fall on second-year Jeremiah Trotter Jr. to step up for the defense. While the Eagles coaches and players are expressing confidence, there is no doubt that the depth of the defending champs will be tested across multiple positions.
Philadelphia’s injury report suggests that the secondary is thin, the linebacker corps is stretched, and the offensive line hinges on the health of its right tackle. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are also battling injuries—particularly on offense—which could balance out the game. If offensive stand-ins and young players like Kelee Ringo and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. can step up, the Eagles have a chance to maintain their perfect start. Ultimately, this match-up won't be a test of play calling or talent, but of the resilience and adaptability of the next men up.
