The Philadelphia Eagles have been dealt a significant blow with left tackle Jordan Mailata being placed on injured reserve. Mailata, a key figure on the Eagles’ offensive line, suffered a hamstring injury in last week’s win over the Cleveland Browns. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter when Mailata awkwardly hit the ground while blocking on a Saquon Barkley run, forcing him to leave the game. He was later seen on crutches, raising concerns about the severity of the injury.
With Mailata sidelined for at least four games, the Eagles will turn to six-year veteran Fred Johnson to fill the void at left tackle. Johnson, who has seen limited action this season, has had mixed results in his spot duty and will face a stiff challenge as the Eagles prepare to take on their division rivals, the New York Giants, on Sunday.
The #Eagles have placed stellar LT Jordan Mailata on Injured Reserve, knocking him out four games.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 18, 2024
Mailata’s absence is a major setback for an Eagles offense that relies heavily on its strong offensive line to protect quarterback Jalen Hurts and open up running lanes for Barkley. Mailata has emerged as one of the NFL’s top left tackles in recent seasons, and his leadership on the line will be sorely missed during this stretch.
In addition to Mailata, the Eagles will also be without tight end Dallas Goedert, who is nursing a hamstring injury of his own. The team is already thin at the tight end position, making Goedert’s absence another challenge for the offense. Cornerback Darius Slay Jr. is also listed as questionable for Sunday’s game with a knee issue, adding to the team’s growing injury concerns.
Despite these injuries, the Eagles will look to maintain their strong form as they head into a pivotal NFC East matchup against the Giants. Fred Johnson will be under the spotlight as he steps into the starting role, and the team will need him to rise to the occasion to protect Hurts and keep the offense rolling.
