Philadelphia Eagles Prepare for NFC Championship Game Against Commanders Amid Injury Concerns
The Philadelphia Eagles are just one victory away from securing their spot in the Super Bowl. On Sunday, they face the surging Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship Game. The Eagles are up against a team that has shocked the football world with back-to-back upset victories over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions in the playoffs.
Having faced the Commanders twice during the regular season, the Eagles are well aware of the challenges they pose. Philadelphia enters the game with confidence but also understands the high stakes and the quality of their opponent. However, leading into Sunday’s showdown, injury concerns have loomed over key players Jalen Hurts and Quinyon Mitchell, raising questions about their availability.
Hurts and Mitchell Expected to Play
Eagles fans were relieved to learn that quarterback Jalen Hurts and cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, who both sustained injuries during the divisional round against the Los Angeles Rams, are on track to play this weekend. Both players were listed as limited participants in Wednesday’s walkthrough practice.
Hurts, the centerpiece of Philadelphia’s offense, has been dealing with lingering concerns about his durability. Mitchell, a critical part of the Eagles’ secondary, also remains pivotal to the team’s success against Washington’s offensive weapons. Despite their limited participation, the signs are encouraging, and both are expected to suit up for the NFC Championship Game.
Goedert and Jurgens Listed as DNPs
While the updates on Hurts and Mitchell brought some optimism, fans were alarmed to see two important names—tight end Dallas Goedert and center Cam Jurgens—listed as Did Not Participate (DNP) in Wednesday’s walkthrough.
Goedert is dealing with an ankle issue, while Jurgens is managing a back injury. Both players have been integral to the Eagles’ offense this season. Goedert’s ability to block and make plays in the passing game has been a key factor in the team’s success, and Jurgens has stepped up as the anchor of the offensive line following Jason Kelce’s retirement.
However, Eagles fans shouldn’t panic just yet. Since Wednesday’s session was a walkthrough rather than a full-speed practice, the DNP designation may simply reflect precautionary measures rather than an indication of their availability for Sunday.
Context for Goedert and Jurgens’ Injuries
Both players have dealt with injuries in recent weeks. Ahead of last Sunday’s divisional round game against the Rams, Goedert was already on the injury report due to an illness that caused him to miss one practice. Jurgens, meanwhile, was given a rest day before returning as a full participant for the remainder of last week’s practices.
Given this context, the Eagles remain hopeful that both Goedert and Jurgens will be upgraded to limited or full participants in Thursday’s practice session. Their availability for Sunday will likely depend on how they respond during these final days of preparation.
Eagles’ Practice Schedule
Philadelphia will hold another practice at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday, starting at 2:25 p.m. ET. This session will be open to the media during warmups and individual drills, providing an opportunity for updates on Goedert and Jurgens. On Friday, the team will return to the field for their second consecutive practice at the Linc, offering the final glimpse into the team’s readiness before Sunday’s game.
Looking Ahead
The Eagles will need all hands on deck to overcome a confident Commanders team that has been red-hot in the playoffs. With Hurts and Mitchell expected to play, and with hope that Goedert and Jurgens will also be available, Philadelphia’s chances remain strong.
As the countdown to Sunday continues, Eagles fans will be watching closely for updates on their injured stars. If all goes according to plan, Philadelphia will have a fully capable roster ready to compete for a spot in Super Bowl LIX.
