Star wide receiver DeVonta Smith gave Philadelphia Eagles fans a good scare heading into their crucial Week 13 matchup with the Chicago Bears on Black Friday.
Heading into the game against Chicago, Smith popped up on Philadelphia’s injury report. He was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday and Wednesday due to a chest/shoulder injury, plus an illness.
DeVonta Smith will play in Week 13 vs. Bears
This obviously caused concern around the Greater Philadelphia Area. But those concerns can be eased, as Smith was listed as a full participant on Philadelphia’s estimated injury report on Thanksgiving, clearing the way for him to suit up against the Bears.
Smith’s availability is great news for an Eagles offense looking to get on track. On the season, he leads the team with 55 receptions and 754 yards. He’s a legitimate deep-ball threat, and his mere presence on the field helps to open things up for the rest of the offense.
The Eagles will enter Week 13 desperate for a win after their historic collapse against the Cowboys in Week 12. Philadelphia jumped out to a 21-0 lead over Dallas in the first half, but didn't score a single point in the second half and lost the game, 24-21. It was the second-largest blown lead in franchise history, and the largest of this century for Philadelphia.
Meanwhile, the Bears enter the game Black Friday on fire. They've won four straight games and currently sit atop the ultra-competitive NFC North, albeit barely. They hold a slim lead over the Packers in the division, and with a loss to Philadelphia they'll drop to second place. The Detroit Lions are also in the hunt in the division.
While the Eagles will be happy to have Smith available, the Bears will be getting some reinforcements in the secondary. Cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon were both activated off injured reserve ahead of the game in Philadelphia.