Three Eagles Stars Miss Thursday Practice Ahead of Commanders Game

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, wide receiver DeVonta Smith, and wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks did not practice on Thursday, October 29. Their absence puts the offensive core in doubt for Sunday night’s matchup against the Washington Commanders.

The three players were listed as nonparticipants on the injury report. Smith is dealing with a hamstring issue, while Barkley has a back and hamstring problem. Wicks is managing an ankle injury. The Eagles held a walk-through on Wednesday due to the short week. One final practice is scheduled for Friday before the team releases its final game statuses.

Smith has been inactive for three games this season because of his lingering hamstring injury. He missed Monday night’s 38-21 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Wicks also sat out that game. He ranked second on the team in receiving yards behind Smith before his ankle injury forced him to sit out against the Carolina Panthers the week prior.

Barkley returned to play against the Cowboys after missing two games with a hamstring injury. His back locked up early in the contest, limiting him to nine touches. He recorded seven carries for 62 yards and a touchdown, along with two receptions for nine yards. Barkley told reporters his back had started to overcompensate for the hamstring pain. He said he did not expect the back issue to keep him out long term but deferred to the medical staff.

The Eagles have only three running backs on the active roster and practice squad combined. Jaydon Blue joined the active roster on Wednesday. The 22-year-old out of Texas signed with the Eagles practice squad on September 1 after being waived by the Cowboys. He previously played in five games for Dallas last season, rushing for 127 yards and a touchdown on 38 carries. Elijah Mitchell is the lone running back on the practice squad. He has two game-day elevations remaining this season.

Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion noted that the team has depth at the running back position. He called Mitchell a productive back and described Blue as an exciting young talent. Mannion said the team is confident both players can step in and be productive. Center Jordan Mailata praised Barkley’s effort against the Cowboys, stating that Barkley showed how much he cares about the team and the city.

Other players who missed Thursday’s practice include inside linebacker Jihaad Campbell, wide receiver Britain Covey, and cornerback Jonathan Jones. Michael Carter II, Marcus Epps, Jonathan Greenard, Jalyx Hunt, Moro Ojomo, and Nolan Smith Jr. were listed as limited participants. The Eagles also signed guard Evan Beerntsen, wide receiver Quentin Skinner, and defensive back Shaun Wade to the practice squad on Wednesday.