Sport

Eagles-Cowboys: Key Player Inactives for Week 16 Showdown!

2024-12-29

Author: Ying

Eagles Inactives: A Deep Dive

The Philadelphia Eagles will notably be without their star quarterback Jalen Hurts, who was ruled out on Friday after suffering a concussion. This marks a critical moment for the Eagles as backup Kenny Pickett is set to make his first start under center, adding pressure but also providing an opportunity for the young QB to shine. Tanner McKee will serve as Pickett’s backup, and due to the NFL’s third quarterback rule, Ian Book is in a precarious situation, only able to play if both Pickett and McKee are injured during the game.

In addition to Hurts, linebacker Nakobe Dean will also be absent due to an abdomen injury. His replacement, Oren Burks, is expected to take the lead alongside Zack Baun, while Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Dallas Gant, who is making his Eagles debut after being elevated from the practice squad, will serve as backup linebackers.

Running back Will Shipley is out due to a concussion as well, prompting the Eagles to elevate Tyrion Davis-Price from the practice squad, giving him his chance to make an impact in the regular season as he takes on the role of third running back behind veterans Saquon Barkley and Kenny Gainwell.

Interestingly, offensive linemen Nick Gates, Darian Kinnard, and Trevor Keegan will all be healthy scratches, which raises eyebrows since Keegan is now a single game away from potentially being sidelined for the entire regular season. This highlights a growing concern with the Eagles' offensive line depth as they navigate the crucial late stages of the season.

Philadelphia Eagles Inactive List:

- QB Jalen Hurts - Concussion - LB Nakobe Dean - Abdomen injury - RB Will Shipley - Concussion - OL Nick Gates - Healthy scratch - OL Darian Kinnard - Healthy scratch - OL Trevor Keegan - Healthy scratch - QB Ian Book* - Third quarterback

Cowboys Inactives: What to Expect

On the other side, the Dallas Cowboys have also announced their inactives list without any significant surprises. They will be missing: - RB Deuce Vaughn - CB Kemon Hall - OL T.J. Bass - OT Matt Waletzko - TE Princeton Fant - DE Tyrus Wheat - DT Justin Rogers.

The absence of these players may influence the Cowboys’ offensive flow, especially as they attempt to capitalize on the Eagles' current injury concerns.

With the NFC East rivalry heating up, this matchup could be pivotal for both teams as the playoffs approach. Can Kenny Pickett rise to the occasion and deliver a stunning performance in Hurts' absence? Fans won't want to miss this thrilling game that promises to shake up the standings!