Jordan Hicks injury: Eagles place rookie linebacker on injured reserve

Philadelphia Eagles rookie inside linebacker Jordan Hicks will not return this season. The Eagles have officially ended his season by placing Hicks on the season-ending injured reserve list, according to an announcement from the team. Hicks suffered a pectoral injury during the Eagles' 33-27 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday evening.

There was originally some optimism that Hicks might only miss two to four weeks. As it turns out, the injury was more severe than first expected.

Hicks being out for the Eagles is obviously a really big deal. The 2015 third round pick has been a huge playmaker on Philadelphia's defense. Hicks has a sack, two interceptions, one defensive touchdown,  three fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble this season. He also knocked out Tony Romo, and the Cowboys have been 0-6 since. Hicks was building a legitimate case for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

With Hicks out, the Eagles will rely on the combination of Mychal Kendricks, Kiko Alonso, and DeMeco Ryans at inside linebacker. That was the original plan anyway before injuries forced Hicks, who was set to mostly contribute on special teams, into regular playing time.

The Eagles freed up a roster spot by moving Hicks to injured reserve. It remains to be seen how they will fill the vacancy.