The Philadelphia Eagles are facing challenges as they gear up to take on the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football. Head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the media on Thursday, providing updates on player injuries and the team”s preparations.
Right tackle Lane Johnson did not participate in Thursday”s practice, marking a concerning start to the week for the Eagles. Johnson, 35, has been sidelined for the last two games due to a Lisfranc sprain he sustained against the Detroit Lions on November 16. The team initially chose not to place him on Injured Reserve, hoping he could return within a four-week timeframe. However, with his absence at the beginning of practice this week, it appears unlikely he will be ready to play on Monday night. There is speculation that he may be available for the game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 15. If Johnson cannot play, veteran Fred Johnson is expected to step in for his third consecutive start.
In addition to Johnson, the Eagles were also without defensive tackle Jalen Carter during Thursday”s practice. Carter underwent procedures on both shoulders earlier this week and has been ruled out for the game against the Chargers. His status is currently week-to-week.
On a positive note, receiver and punt returner Xavier Gipson returned to practice after missing the previous game against the Chicago Bears due to an injury sustained in Dallas. Gipson is dealing with an AC joint sprain. In his absence, the Eagles promoted Britain Covey to the 53-man roster to handle punt returns.
Additionally, safety Marcus Epps was back on the practice field on Thursday. The Eagles had opened his practice window earlier in the week, and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio expressed optimism about Epps being ready for action on Monday night. Epps has missed the last four games but could replace Sydney Brown, who struggled to fill in for the injured Drew Mukuba last week. While Mukuba”s rookie season may be over, Epps” experience could provide much-needed stability to the Eagles” defense.
This injury update serves as a critical aspect of the Eagles” preparation as they look to maintain their momentum heading into a key matchup against the Chargers.
