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The Philadelphia Eagles officially announced the following transactions on Monday evening:
- TE Zach Ertz’s 21-day practice window activated.
- CB Craig James placed on injured reserve.
Let’s sort through this on a player-by-player basis.
ZACH ERTZ
The Eagles originally placed Ertz on injured reserve after he suffered a high ankle injury in Week 6. It was reported at the time that his recovery would take “four-to-six weeks.” Assuming that timeline is accurate, this week marks the front end of that range. Ergo, Ertz might not actually be ready to play this Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.
The #Eagles will see how he looks when he gets back practice this week. Unclear at this point if he’s got a shot to play Sunday. He’ll have to show them he can move and protect himself on that high-ankle sprain to get clearance. https://t.co/7zGQ6wqWLw
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) November 16, 2020
For perspective’s sake, the Eagles activated Isaac Seumalo’s window last week and he wasn’t ready to play against the New York Giants.
It remains to be seen how much Ertz’s return will actually help Philly’s struggling offense. He wasn’t exactly playing well prior to getting hurt! Wentz and Ertz clearly weren’t on the same page as the veteran tight end saw 45 targets for just 24 receptions, 178 yards (paltry 7.4 average), and one touchdown.
Ertz’s return would mean a decreased role for Richard Rodgers, who has been surprisingly productive for the Eagles. Dick Rod actually ranks third on the team in receiving yards with 244 on 23 receptions.
That the Eagles opened Ertz’s window means they expect him back at some point in the near future. Maybe Wentz and him can rekindle their strong connection. Or maybe it’s just more of the same from earlier this year with Ertz operating at less than 100%.
CRAIG JAMES
James was placed on IR for the second time this year. He previously missed time due to a hamstring injury. James was a full participant in last Wednesday’s practice coming out of the bye but then he missed the next two days with a shoulder issue. Must have gotten hurt in practice somehow.
James being out for the year hurts the Eagles’ corner depth. Also bad for Dave Fipp’s unit to be missing a special teams co-captain. Perhaps the Eagles will look to sign practice squad cornerback Michael Jacquet to the roster to take his place.
Or they could use the open spot to activate the aforementioned Seumalo if he’s ready for this week’s game.