The Philadelphia Eagles welcomed back key players for limited practice sessions as they prepare for the upcoming playoff push. Right tackle Lane Johnson, who has been sidelined since November 16, 2023, due to a sprained right foot, participated in practice on Wednesday. Johnson’s Lisfranc injury kept him out for the final seven games of the regular season, a significant absence for the Eagles.
Johnson’s return would greatly benefit the team, which boasts a record of 120 wins, 62 losses, and 1 tie in games he has played since being drafted as a first-round pick in 2013. In contrast, the Eagles have struggled without him, recording just 18 wins and 28 losses, including playoffs. This season, the team managed only three wins against four losses in Johnson’s absence. Head coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged Johnson’s impact, stating, “I know he’s working like crazy to get himself back. He’s a difference-maker. He’s one of the best that’s ever done it,” as reported by Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports Philadelphia.
The Eagles could also see the return of middle linebacker Nakobe Dean, who has missed the last two games due to a hamstring injury sustained in Week 16 against the Washington Commanders. Dean’s contributions this season include 55 tackles, four sacks, and two forced fumbles across ten games, despite beginning the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list after recovering from a torn patellar tendon.
In addition to Johnson and Dean, several other players were limited participants in Wednesday’s practice. These included defensive tackle Jalen Carter (hip), safety Marcus Epps (concussion), and tight end Dallas Goedert (knee). Notably, offensive lineman Brett Toth (concussion) and tight end Grant Calcaterra (knee/ankle) did not practice.
As the Eagles gear up for their playoff campaign, the health and performance of their roster will be crucial. With the return of key players, the team will look to strengthen its position and aim for a deep postseason run. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal as the Eagles assess the readiness of their injured players and finalize their strategy moving forward.
