DeVonta Smith is back on the field for the Eagles this Sunday against the Panthers, and that’s huge news for Philly fans. Their top receiver, who’s been sidelined for the last two games with hamstring and toe issues, got the all-clear from the docs and was a full participant in Friday’s practice. He even told reporters he was feeling good. Talk about a relief!
The Return of ‘Smitty’ Changes Everything
Getting Smith back is a massive boost for that Eagles offense. We’re talking about a guy who already put up 19 catches for 235 yards and a touchdown this season, even missing two full games. You know he’s itching to get back out there and make an impact. Missing two weeks is tough, but Smith is clearly pushing through, and having his elite route running and hands back in the mix has to give them some serious confidence going into Week 6. The doctors giving him the OK after his rehab shows they trust him to be at full speed. This is the kind of mid-season energy injection a team needs, especially when facing a tough matchup.
But the Injury Bug Bit Hard Elsewhere
While Smith’s return is electric, the Eagles’ injury report isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Star running back Saquon Barkley, unfortunately, has been ruled out for Sunday’s game with his own hamstring issue. He didn’t even hit the practice field all week, which tells you it’s serious. Not having Barkley’s explosive playmaking in the backfield is a gut punch, no doubt about it.
And the hits keep coming. Quarterback Jalen Hurts is out with a calf injury, which is a major blow. They also ruled out defensive back Michael Carter (abdomen), outside linebacker Jalyx Hunt (knee and ankle), and running back Will Shipley, who got placed on injured reserve with a foot injury. That’s a lot of key guys on the sideline! On top of that, outside linebacker A.J. Epenesa is doubtful with a back injury. The depth chart is definitely getting tested. Cornerback Jakorian Bennett (knee), tight end Grant Calcaterra (back), guard Landon Dickerson (knee), offensive lineman Drew Kendall (knee), and tight end Eli Stowers (quad) are all questionable, meaning we won’t know their status until game time. This team is banged up.
What’s Next for the Eagles?
Despite a brutal injury list, the Eagles still head into their Week 6 matchup against the Panthers with some serious offensive firepower thanks to Smith’s return. Losing Barkley and Hurts hurts, big time, but getting your top receiver back can ignite the rest of the offense and give them a much-needed spark. Philly is gonna need everyone to step up against the Panthers, but you gotta love the fight in Smith getting back on the field after missing time. Let’s see if the rest of the squad can rally around him and pull out a big win this Sunday.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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