Jalen Carter’s Injury Update Raises Concerns Ahead of Vikings Showdown
The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for a crucial Week 7 clash against the Minnesota Vikings, but injury concerns loom large as they look to bounce back from their Week 6 loss to the New York Giants.
Quinyon Mitchell’s Status Brightens Outlook
In a silver lining for the Eagles, rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell is expected to take the field after being listed as a full participant in practice for two consecutive days. Following a limited session earlier in the week due to a hamstring injury, Mitchell appears ready to contribute, carrying no game-day designation into the matchup.
This positive development eases some of the uncertainty that surrounded the Eagles’ secondary, where speculation had swirled around potential lineups, including how Cooper DeJean might fit in if Mitchell were unable to play.
Jalen Carter’s Diminished Status Raises Alarm
However, the Eagles are still grappling with the status of standout defensive tackle Jalen Carter. For the second week in a row, Carter has been marked as questionable due to a heel injury. He was a full participant in practice on Wednesday, but his condition took a turn, resulting in a limited participation during Thursday and Friday’s sessions.
Carter, known for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses by collapsing the pocket, is a critical piece of the Eagles’ defensive scheme. His absence would significantly impact the game plan against Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz, who has been named the starter as J.J. McCarthy continues to recover from a high ankle sprain sustained in Week 2.
Carter had expressed optimism earlier in the week, stating he felt close to returning against the Giants and was confident about playing in Minnesota. “It’s like, almost like I had a bye week,” he said, reflecting on his missed game. “I’m off, I didn’t play, but I’m back this week so I got more rest time. I’m ready to play.” Unfortunately, his status remains uncertain, leading to a game-time decision that could sway the outcome.
Rookie’s Chance to Shine
In Carter’s absence last week, rookie Ty Robinson stepped up, logging critical snaps for the first time in the season. The fourth-round pick showcased his potential, batting down a pass from Jaxson Dart at the line of scrimmage. “I’m always going to be my hardest critic,” Robinson remarked, acknowledging the challenge of stepping into a significant role. “I looked at it as a challenge to push myself even more. I felt like I did this week during practice, so when my time comes again on Sunday, I want to show the coaches and my teammates that I can take feedback and coaching and go out there and do my thing.”
Eagles’ Other Injury News
Adding to the Eagles’ injury woes, backup tight end Grant Calcaterra has been ruled out for the second straight game due to an oblique injury. This could further strain the offensive depth as they prepare to face a formidable Vikings team.
Vikings Deal with Their Own Setbacks
On the Vikings’ side, they will be without outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, who has been ruled out, while six other players are listed as questionable, including key contributors like linebacker Blake Cashman and offensive tackle Brian O’Neill.
As the Eagles gear up for a pivotal matchup, the health of their roster will be closely watched, especially the status of Jalen Carter. The outcome could hinge on whether he can take the field and deliver the disruptive performance that the Eagles desperately need.
