The Philadelphia Eagles’ already struggling offense is likely to be without one of its top wide receivers, as DeVonta Smith was listed as out of practice for the second straight day on Wednesday.
He was listed with chest and shoulder injuries during Tuesday’s walkthrough, while an illness was added to his report on Wednesday, making his availability against the Chicago Bears unlikely. If Smith cannot go on Friday, Jahan Dotson would be called upon to start in his place.
Eagles’ Receiving Core Would Be Down A Key Member
Much has been made about the Eagles’ offensive struggles, with Jalen Hurts’ conservative tendencies reportedly frustrating A.J. Brown and several of his teammates. However, DeVonta Smith has been Hurts’ favorite target in 2025, leading the Eagles with 754 receiving yards.
Smith has also not missed a game this season, and if he is unable to go on Friday, it would mark just the fifth time in his five-year career that he would be out due to an injury.
He had a season-high nine catches for 183 yards, including a 79-yard touchdown against the Vikings, and has also recorded 114 yards on eight catches against the Broncos and six catches for 89 yards against the Cowboys.
In his absence, the Eagles will insert Jahan Dotson into the starting lineup, pairing him opposite A.J. Brown. The former Commanders wideout has 10 catches for 194 yards and a touchdown this season after posting 19 catches for 216 yards all of last season.
Philadelphia is thin at wide receiver behind its usual starters, with the only other Eagles who have catches this year being undrafted rookie Darius Cooper and punt returner Xavier Gipson; both receivers have combined for just four catches and 13 yards between them.
Gipson has also been out of practice the last couple of days due to a shoulder injury he suffered after taking a big hit on a punt return against the Cowboys that jarred the ball loose. Philadelphia has promoted Britain Covey from the practice squad to the active roster as the primary punt returner, a job that he had in 2022 and 2023 before being limited with injuries last year.
Eagles’ Injury Report Leans Towards Many Starters Playing
Several of the Eagles that are listed as questionable are likely to play on Friday, including running back Saquon Barkley (groin), safety Reed Blankenship (thigh), and guard Landon Dickerson (knee). Each was limited in practice both times this week, but that appears to be more of a precautionary measure on a short week than a precursor to the players sitting out Friday.
However, safety Andrew Mukuba was placed on injured reserve as he suffered an ankle injury against Dallas that required surgery. Sydney Brown will start at free safety alongside Reed Blankenship on the back end of the defense.
In addition, offensive tackle Lane Johnson was once again out with a knee injury. Last week, Fred Johnson started in his place. Fortunately for Lane and Eagles fans, it appears that he will avoid injured reserve despite fears that he would miss extended time. But Lane Johnson will most likely not return to the lineup on Black Friday against the Bears.
The major blow would be DeVonta Smith being out on Friday. With the Eagles blowing a 21-0 lead in the second half against the Cowboys and dealing with offensive struggles, this is the last thing that Philadelphia fans want to hear going into their Thanksgiving weekend.
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