Eagles linebacker Jonathan Greenard is going to miss “another couple weeks at least,” a tough blow for Philly as their training camp heats up. The dude hasn’t even hit the field for practice yet, and that pectoral injury has him stuck on the physically unable to perform list. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio didn’t mince words at a Tuesday press conference, confirming it will be “another couple weeks at least” before Greenard can even think about football activities again. Fangio also stressed the team’s got to keep that extended time off in mind to avoid further injury once he does finally get back. This is exactly the kind of early season health hit that makes you sweat, you know?
Early Season Health Scares and Rising Talent
It’s not just Greenard. There’s already a few other bumps and bruises making headlines. Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell got tangled up with Hollywood Brown in one-on-one drills, went to the ground, and was slow to get up, spending time on one knee with a trainer. He sat out team drills, which is always a worry, but at least he didn’t hit the medical tent or leave practice early, so those are some encouraging signs. Meanwhile, some players are stepping up big. In the media poll for who’s stock is up at camp, Darius Cooper absolutely ran away with it, snagging 14 votes and playing his way into serious consideration for a starting job. Jalyx Hunt got three votes, Willie Lampkin two, and then Jalen Hurts, Drew Kendall, Elijah Moore, and Jeremiah Trotter each picked up a single vote. It’s clear the Eagles are looking for guys to step up with these early nicks.
The O-Line Stands Strong, But Changes Loom
The Eagles know you need serious depth to win in the NFL, especially when injuries start piling up. And one place they’re always strong is the offensive line. This unit just opened the season ranked #2 in the entire NFL, right behind the Broncos and ahead of the Buccaneers. That’s elite. The big shakeup there is the departure of former offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, but the good news is the same starting five are back. Drew Kendall, who was a rookie last season focused on learning, is now the top backup on the inside and ready to play if needed. The only thing that stings a bit is right tackle Lane Johnson hinting this might be his last season in the NFL. We only have one more year to watch one of the finest pass blockers since PFF started grading, so you gotta savor it.
So, while Greenard heals up, the Eagles will lean on that depth. The focus will be on getting Greenard back safely and watching how that top-ranked offensive line, with Johnson possibly on his farewell tour, performs all season long. It’s early, but these are the trends that set the tone.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleeding Green Nation.
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