The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but they’ll be doing so without star wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who is out with a concussion suffered last week against the New Orleans Saints. Smith hasn’t received medical clearance to play.
Additionally, A.J. Brown’s status is uncertain as he deals with a hamstring issue and is listed as questionable for the weekend’s game.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared this update via social media.
#Eagles WR DeVonta Smith is out with a concussion for Sunday, but AJ Brown (hamstring) is officially questionable after practicing today.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 27, 2024
Smith’s concussion occurred late in the previous game, casting doubt on his availability for this week. Following the hit, Eagles defender C.J. Gardner-Johnson criticized the Saints for what he termed a risky play against Smith.
“That was one of the dirtiest plays I’ve seen on the field,” Gardner-Johnson said to reporters, pointing out the lack of respect shown by the opposing team. He expressed his frustration at the cheap shot directed at a crucial player.
The Eagles now face a significant challenge as they prepare to play without Smith. The hope is that he can quickly exit the concussion protocol, but safety is paramount with head injuries.
Before his injury, Smith recorded seven receptions for 79 yards in the game, accumulating a season total of 21 catches for 239 yards and one touchdown.
Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images
The Eagles had a challenging performance last week, managing a late-game comeback to secure a win, bringing their record to 2-1. With Brown missing two games recently, the team is hopeful he can return. If he can’t play, the Eagles may find themselves in a tough spot against the Buccaneers.
To navigate these absences, the Eagles will need others to step up, including tight end Dallas Goedert, who shone in the game against the Saints with 10 catches for 170 yards. Should Brown also be sidelined, Goedert may become the focal point of the offense once again.