Eagles Face Uphill Battle in Tampa as Key Players Hit Injured Reserve
The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for a significant challenge as they head to Tampa Bay for a Week 4 matchup against the Buccaneers. Unfortunately, they will do so without several pivotal players, including starting edge rusher Nolan Smith, who was placed on injured reserve shortly before the game.
Injury Setbacks for the Eagles
On Wednesday, just as light rain fell over their practice facility, the Eagles announced the placement of three players—Nolan Smith, Jakorian Bennett, and Darius Cooper—on injured reserve. This revelation cast a shadow over the team’s preparations for what promises to be a high-stakes clash against another unbeaten team.
According to team sources, the injuries sustained by these players do not require surgical intervention. However, preliminary assessments suggest they’ll be sidelined for at least the next five games, which include crucial matchups against the Buccaneers, the Broncos, the Giants (twice), and the Vikings. The Eagles are hoping to see these players return after their bye week on November 2, potentially for a pivotal Monday night game against the Packers on November 10.
Roster Adjustments Ahead of Tampa Showdown
In light of these injuries, the Eagles have taken action to bolster their roster. They have promoted safety Marcus Epps, tight end/fullback Cam Latu, and defensive back Parry Nickerson from the practice squad. Additionally, they have added cornerback Eli Ricks, receiver Quez Watkins, and linebacker Lance Dixon to the practice squad.
A report from NFL Media indicated that Smith, who had offseason surgery to repair a torn triceps, has aggravated this injury. Meanwhile, Cooper suffered a shoulder injury during the opening kickoff against the Rams, and details regarding Bennett’s injury remain undisclosed.
Impact of Nolan Smith’s Absence
Smith’s absence is particularly concerning for a defense that is already struggling to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The Eagles have recorded only three sacks this season, placing them near the bottom of the league rankings, tied with the Ravens and just ahead of the Titans and Panthers.
Although Smith has yet to register a sack this season, he is recognized as one of the Eagles’ top pass rushers and run defenders. Fortunately, the team boasts some depth at the position, with Azeez Ojulari, Ogbo Okoronkwo, and Patrick Johnson available. However, all three were inactive for last Sunday’s game, and neither Ojulari nor Okoronkwo has seen action yet this season.
The Next Man Up
In a twist of fate, rookie Kelee Ringo, who had been informed by defensive coordinator Vic Fangio at the end of training camp that his moment would come, is now poised to step into a significant role as the top backup corner. Ringo has yet to see the field for a defensive snap in the first three games, but he will be crucial in the absence of Bennett, who served as Adoree Jackson’s backup before leaving Sunday’s game with a groin injury.
A Tough Road Ahead
The Eagles face a daunting task in Tampa, a venue where they have historically struggled. Since head coach Nick Sirianni took the helm in 2021, the team has managed just one victory there, holding a disheartening 1-4 record. Last season, they suffered a 33-16 loss in Week 4, missing key offensive players like A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and right tackle Lane Johnson.
As the Eagles embark on this journey, they will need to dig deep and rally as they face one of the league’s toughest environments, all while navigating the impact of significant injuries.
