Eagles face tough blow as rookie Drew Mukuba’s fractured ankle puts season at risk
The Philadelphia Eagles have taken a significant hit with the news that rookie safety Drew Mukuba has sustained a fractured ankle, an injury that could potentially end his season. This setback occurred late in Sunday’s tightly contested 24-21 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, raising concerns about the team’s defensive depth moving forward.
Surgery and Recovery Timeline
Mukuba is slated to undergo surgery, which will determine the extent of his injury and whether there is a possibility for him to return this season. The most optimistic scenario would involve him making a comeback during the postseason, should the 8-3 Eagles secure a playoff berth. Coach Nick Sirianni addressed Mukuba’s situation during his Monday video press conference, noting, “He’ll be out for some time, for a little bit. I’ll never put a timetable on a guy. We’ll see how long. He’ll miss a little bit of time, but we’ll see how long.”
The injury occurred as Mukuba attempted to tackle Cowboys receiver George Pickens on a pivotal 24-yard reception that set up the game-winning field goal by Brandon Aubrey with less than a minute remaining. This moment not only sealed the game for Dallas but also left the Eagles scrambling for solutions in their secondary.
Mukuba’s Impact and Season Performance
In his rookie season, Mukuba has emerged as a key player for the Eagles, participating in all 11 games and starting in 10. He has logged 672 defensive snaps and recorded three tackles against the Cowboys, raising his season total to 46. Additionally, he has contributed two interceptions and a half-sack, proving his worth since being selected in the second round out of Texas.
With Mukuba sidelined, the Eagles will likely turn to veteran Reed Blankenship and third-year safety Sydney Brown to fill the void. However, Blankenship himself is dealing with a thigh injury sustained in the game against Dallas, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming Black Friday matchup against the Chicago Bears.
Depth Chart Concerns and Adjustments
In light of the injuries, the Eagles will need to rely on their depth. Michael Carter II, who has shown versatility as both a slot cornerback and safety, could play a crucial role. The organization has even drawn comparisons between Carter and former Eagle Avonte Maddox, indicating their confidence in his abilities. Meanwhile, Cooper DeJean, who has experience at safety from training camp, may also be considered, though he has primarily filled an outside cornerback role.
The practice squad features first-year safety Andre Sam, while veteran Marcus Epps remains on injured reserve and will not be eligible for activation until after the game against the Bears.
Sirianni expressed optimism about the team’s options: “I think we have good options there. (Michael Carter II) being one of them. Sydney. Reed’s still back there, manning everything back there. And we have confidence in some guys on the practice squad as well. This is why you need your entire roster. It’s never just the 53 guys. It’s the 70 guys. You never know when those guys’ opportunity will come. And here we are.”
Challenges Ahead
Adding to the Eagles’ challenges is the concussion protocol status of veteran cornerback Adoree Jackson. If he is unable to play, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio could find himself without three key starters in Mukuba, Blankenship, and Jackson as they prepare to face a dynamic Bears offense led by playmaking quarterback Caleb Williams.
As the Eagles navigate this difficult period, the depth and adaptability of their roster will be put to the test. The upcoming games will not only determine their postseason ambitions but also the resilience of a team that has faced adversity head-on this season.
