PHILADELPHIA — After a rough loss against the New York Giants last Thursday, the Eagles received positive news Wednesday that could help them get back on track this season.
Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, defensive tackle Jalen Carter and offensive guard Landon Dickerson each went through warmups during Wednesday’s practice. Tight end Grant Calcaterra (oblique injury) was seen stretching on a side field.
Keep in mind: going through stretches does not mean those injured players are full participants or will practice in any capacity. Reporters watched the stretching period of Wednesday’s session but not any individual drills. But it is a good sign that they were out there.
Carter and Dickerson both missed the Giants game with heel and ankle injuries respectively, and Mitchell exited in the second quarter with a hamstring injury.
If Mitchell does not play in this Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings, the Eagles’ secondary would struggle. Kelee Ringo and Adoree’ Jackson have both been unreliable in their starts.
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said Tuesday that Jackson will probably start on the other side of Mitchell.
Mitchell and Jackson could give up big plays to Vikings wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Jefferson has amassed 29 catches for 449 yards and one touchdown in five games, and Addison has caught nine passes for 155 yards and one touchdown in two games (missed three games due to suspension).
The Eagles are dependent on Carter to stop Minnesota’s run game.
Giants rookie running back Cam Skattebo rushed for 98 yards and three touchdowns against Philadelphia’s defense. Through six weeks, the Eagles are tied 26th in the NFL for run defense, allowing 134.3 yards per game.
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