Eagles injury updates on Torrey Smith and Rodney McLeod

The Philadelphia Eagles listed two players as “questionable” on their final injury report heading into their Week 3 matchup against the New York Giants: starting safety Rodney McLeod and starting wide receiver Torrey Smith.

There’s good news and bad news for the Eagles.

The good news is that Smith will play against the Giants, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Smith was listed questionable after missing practice on Friday due to “illness.” Rookie wideout Mack Hollins would’ve been in line for an increased role with Smith out but that won’t be the case.

The bad news is that McLeod is “a much longer shot” to suit up. McLeod, who suffered a hamstring injury last Sunday, didn’t practice much this week. Eagles coach Doug Pederson said he expects McLeod to be a game-time decision based on how he handles a pregame workout. It doesn’t sound like McLeod is likely to go, however.

With McLeod potentially out, the Eagles are down to their fourth string starting safety next to Malcolm Jenkins. Philly already ruled out veteran safety Corey Graham and versatile backup Jaylen Watkins on Friday.

That means it could be Chris Maragos who starts next to Jenkins. The Eagles also brought in Trae Elston this week after he was released by the Bills. Linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill played safety in college and has taken some reps at that position in practice this week.

The Eagles’ secondary was already a concern entering this season. The injuries they’ve suffered make matters even worse.

Philadelphia will really need a strong effort from their pass rush in order to hide some of their weaknesses in coverage. The Eagles must dominate the Giants’ offensive line.