Before their Week 18 matchup with the New York Giants, the Philadelphia Eagles revealed some dismal news regarding their offensive line. The news is also not encouraging for their playoff matchup the following week.
The Eagles have lost four of their past five games as they have experienced a late-season collapse. To win the NFC East, the Eagles will need to defeat the Giants on Sunday and pray that the Dallas Cowboys fall to the Washington Commanders.
Their one wide receiver will be lacking.
Star wide receiver DeVonta Smith is out against the Giants because of an ankle injury, the team announced. This week, Smith has missed each of the three practices.
Following the appearance of a photo showing wide receiver Smith exiting the stadium in Week 17 while on crutches and a walking boot, head coach Nick Sirianni first stated he anticipated Smith being available to play against the Giants this week. Earlier this week, Smith claimed to be “feeling good.”
The hopeful scenario did not materialize, and the Eagles may suffer consequences in the postseason. Smith’s complete lack of practice this week is alarming. Smith’s injury may restrict his options in the wild-card round if he is able to play. One of the Eagles’ primary goals doesn’t need to be destroyed during the playoffs.
This week, the Eagles need to force the ball to A.J. Brown. Brown is the ideal target to help secure a victory over the Giants because he wants the touches.
Next week, Philadelphia might have a different narrative to share regarding Smith.