After their first loss of the season, the Philadelphia Eagles entered Thursday Night Football looking to pick things up against their division rival, the New York Giants. It just so happened that the Giants were trotting out their new, supposed franchise quarterback in rookie Jaxson Dart.
With Dart having an advantage on the ground due to his ability to pick up yardage by tucking and running, the Eagles' defensive line would have to keep an extra eye or two on the rookie. However, one particular name wouldn't be on the field for the Eagles: defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
Carter showed up on the Eagles' injury report this week due to a heel injury after already having dealt with a shoulder injury this year, as well. As it turns out, Carter would wind up being labeled an inactive for this game.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport gave a live report on the pregame Prime broadcast and noted one alarming reason why Carter was out.
Giants' MetLife Stadium was a big factor in why Jalen Carter didn't suit up for the Eagles
"Jalen Carter, one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL, out tonight with a heel injury ... somewhat of a surprise. My understanding is the turf at MetLife stadium played a part in his decision," Rapoport said on the air.
Just recently, Giants star wide receiver Malik Nabers suffered a season-ending ACL injury on that very same turf at MetLife. It should be pointed out, too, that a couple of other names who had suffered injuries on that field include Aaron Rodgers, Nick Bosa, Jaelen Phillips and Jimmy Garoppolo.
The turf has been a growing issue for players and fans, alike, and it sure looks like Carter is on their side. There was no way Carter was going to risk a major injury by suiting up on that turf with being less than 100 percent.
Of course, it also doesn't help that his injury happened to be on his foot.
This isn't the kind of "advantage" the Giants should be proud of, but it looks like this did, indeed, qualify as an odd and ugly one on this night.