The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for their preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens later this week, with fans eagerly anticipating who will be in the lineup for Friday’s game. This preseason is particularly important for the Eagles as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing playoff exit in January.
While the preseason primarily serves as an opportunity for players on the roster bubble to make their mark, it also provides veterans a chance to get back into game shape. Unfortunately, injuries during training camp can disrupt a team’s preparation, and the Eagles are currently facing such challenges.
Eagles’ Injury Report: Key Players Missing Ahead of Preseason Opener
With the matchup against the Ravens just over 48 hours away, Eagles insider Zach Berman has reported that five significant players were sidelined during Wednesday’s practice. The injured players are linebacker Oren Burks (knee), linebacker Brandon Smith (concussion), wide receiver Parris Campbell (groin), safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and cornerback Mekhi Garner.
Among these injuries, Gardner-Johnson’s shoulder issue is the most concerning. The veteran safety was a major offseason acquisition for the Eagles, signing a three-year, $33 million contract after a stint with the Detroit Lions, where he was limited to just three games last season due to a pectoral injury. Gardner-Johnson’s ability to stay healthy moving forward will be crucial for the Eagles’ secondary.
Burks, who joined the Eagles this offseason on a one-year, $2.5 million deal, has missed nine consecutive practice sessions due to his knee injury. The veteran linebacker recorded 29 solo tackles, one sack, and an interception during his time with the San Francisco 49ers last season.
Brandon Smith, entering his second year with the Eagles, has now missed four straight practices due to a concussion. Smith’s contributions last season were limited, with only a single tackle assist in two games.
Parris Campbell was expected to step into the role of Philadelphia’s WR3 this fall, but his groin injury has put a damper on those plans. Campbell, who joined the Eagles after a season with the New York Giants where he tallied just 104 receiving yards and no touchdowns, was hoping to make a significant impact in Jalen Hurts’ offense.
Mekhi Garner, dealing with a hamstring injury, faces an uphill battle to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Garner, a second-year safety, saw limited action last season with only 72 snaps, including 27 on defense and 45 on special teams, resulting in just one solo tackle.
The Eagles are hopeful that these injuries will not prove too serious and that these players can return to the field soon. As of Wednesday, the Eagles are heading into their Friday night clash as 1.5-point road favorites against the Ravens, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.