Eagles injury report: 2 more starters miss practice, leading to concern ahead of Giants game (VIDEO)

PHILADELPHIA – When the Eagles were stretching on the field closest to Broad Street on Thursday, two defensive starters walked onto the field without helmets, becoming spectators. Though they were talking to their teammates, their absence—along with two offensive starters—just days before a pivotal NFC East matchup was noticeable, raising questions about their availability for the game.

Cornerback Darius Slay and defensive tackle Jalen Carter did not participate. Slay, who has been dealing with a knee injury sustained in Sunday's win against the Cincinnati Bengals, sat out practice after participating in a limited capacity on Wednesday. While sidelined, Slay and defensive backs coach Christian Parker worked with rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell , helping him during a drill. The Eagles could be managing Slay's knee injury ahead of their game on a turf field, the surface used at MetLife Stadium, and this rest strategy is something the team has employed with him before.

If Slay is unable to play, the Eagles may turn to Isaiah Rodgers, who replaced him after Slay went to the locker room and was later ruled out. Rodgers has played 31 defensive snaps this season, primarily contributing on special teams, most recently as a kickoff returner. He hasn't started a game since Dec. 26, 2022, when he was with the Indianapolis Colts. The cornerback position will be under scrutiny this week, especially with Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers expected to return after missing two games due to concussion protocol.

Carter, who has recorded one sack, 10 tackles, three tackles for loss, five quarterback hits, and three pass deflections, was out due to an shoulder injury. While the Eagles have depth at defensive tackle with Milton Williams, Moro Ojomo, and Thomas Booker, Carter has proven disruptive at the line of scrimmage, particularly on passing downs. The Eagles hope he will be ready to pressure Giants quarterback Daniel Jones.

Left tackle Jordan Mailata and tight end Dallas Goedert also missed a second consecutive practice. Both are expected to miss multiple weeks, making it a long shot they will play in the upcoming game. Tight end Grant Calcaterra worked with the first unit during individual drills, performing combination blocks with right tackle Lane Johnson. Calcaterra also worked with Fred Johnson, who has been filling in at left tackle for Mailata. Cornerback Eli Ricks was also sidelined with an groin injury.

The Eagles did receive some good news, as Williams returned to practice after missing Wednesday's session with an ankle injury. He participated in rush drills and hit the sled under the supervision of interior defensive line coach Clint Hurtt.

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