Despite the Philadelphia Eagles’ promising beginning, a troubling three-game losing streak marred their initial 10-1 record, sparking internal concerns about their starter, Jalen Hurts. Nevertheless, breaking free from those setbacks, DeVonta Smith’s team finally rebounded with a victory over the New York Giants in Week 16.
The joyous turnaround was short-lived as the Eagles encountered a dual setback in their Week 17 faceoff against the Arizona Cardinals. This not only dashed their hopes for the No. 1 seed but also raised concerns regarding Smith’s health conditions.
DeVonta Smith’s injury update
Devonta Smith’s injury, suspected to be a high ankle sprain, adds concerns about his availability for Week 18 and beyond. In the final minutes of the fourth quarter, on a 3rd-and-19 pass to Kenneth Gainwell, Smith suffered the injury as he was rolled up from behind while blocking.
He was clearly in pain; hence, he had to leave the game and couldn’t return. Post-game, Smith was spotted in a walking boot and relying on crutches. The 25-year-old WR concluded the New Year’s Eve game with three catches for 30 yards, contributing to the team’s effectiveness on the field.
Now, the focus shifts to Smith’s potential availability for the first round of the playoffs. Recoveries from ankle and lower-leg injuries vary among players, making it uncertain whether the Eagles’ key player will be ready for Wild Card Weekend.
Throughout the season, Smith has been a consistent performer for the Eagles, amassing 81 catches, 1,066 yards, and seven touchdowns in 17 games, per CBS News. While he has been on the injury report in recent weeks due to a knee issue, he has not missed a game.
With the Eagles securing a playoff spot, the decision on whether Smith will play in Week 18 against the New York Giants depends on the severity of his injury, as the team must weigh the importance of his rest and recovery heading into the postseason.
NFC playoff scenario after Eagles’ loss
The Eagles entered Sunday’s game with a clear path to control their destiny in the NFC and even had a chance to secure the No. 1 seed with some help. However, their plans took a hit as the Arizona Cardinals pulled off an upset in Week 17.
This unexpected loss significantly impacts the NFC playoff race for the NFL season finale. Currently, the San Francisco 49ers (12-4), Dallas Cowboys (11-5), Detroit Lions (11-5), Philadelphia Eagles (11-5), and Los Angeles Rams (9-7) have clinched playoff berths. All these teams, except the Eagles and Rams, lead their respective divisions.
The defeat to the Cardinals has likely dashed the Eagles’ hopes of winning the NFC East. The Cowboys now only need to beat the Commanders in the next week to secure the division title. This loss positions the Eagles to potentially claim the No. 5 seed, denying them a first-round bye and home-field advantage.
This latest scenario is particularly concerning for the once high-flying team, as they now face the prospect of a tougher postseason without the benefits of a higher seed.
