As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for their Week 13 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, they have officially provided injury updates for two key players: Darius Slay and DeVonta Smith.
Slay, who entered concussion protocol during the game against the Los Angeles Rams and joined Smith on the bench for the remainder of the game, has been ruled out for Week 13, according to Adam Schefter. This leaves Isaiah Rodgers likely to start at right cornerback for only the second time this season.
While Slay’s absence is a setback, there is some positive news regarding Smith. Despite his hamstring injury, Smith has been listed as questionable for Week 13, keeping the possibility open for him to play.
In other injury news, linebacker-turned-fullback Ben VanSumeren has also been ruled out after suffering a “potentially serious knee injury” while working with the scout team. Though his absence may not garner as much attention as losing a starting cornerback or wide receiver, VanSumeren has been a surprising asset to the Eagles’ rushing offense. His 22 offensive snaps, mostly on rushing plays, have contributed to big runs by Saquon Barkley.
If VanSumeren’s injury proves serious, the Eagles may need to seek a new fullback/special teamer, potentially looking at options like Andrew Beck or Troy Hairston from the Houston Texans‘ practice squad. Losing a lead blocker would be a significant blow to an offense that leads the league in rushing yards and carries per game.
