Early Exit Against the Saints
Philadelphia Eagles star wide receiver DeVonta Smith left Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints early after suffering a hard hit from Saints defensive lineman Khristian Boyd. The impact raised immediate concerns about his health, and Smith has since entered the NFL’s concussion protocol. With the Eagles facing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 4, fans are anxious to know if he’ll be available to play.
The Incident and Immediate Reaction
Smith got hurt in the fourth quarter at a crucial juncture. He was in position to catch a ball on a crossing pattern when Boyd brutally tackled him, stopping his momentum and causing a collision that many, including C.J. Gardner-Johnson of the Eagles, thought was a “cheap shot.” Johnson highlighted the force of the collision by referring to it as “the dirtiest thing I’ve ever seen in football.”
Smith was playing well before he left the game; he had seven receptions for 79 yards. The Eagles were in a dangerous scenario, largely depending on their remaining offensive weapons, with top receiver A.J. Brown already out with a hamstring ailment.
Direct helmet to helmet late hit on DeVonta Smith which left him down on the field motionless. No flag on the play.
pic.twitter.com/dYtFf8RLXB
— Eagles Nation (@PHLEaglesNation) September 22, 2024Potential Impact on Week 4
As it stands, Smith’s status for the upcoming game against the Buccaneers remains uncertain. The Eagles are already dealing with the absence of Brown, and if Smith is unable to play, the team will have to rely on less experienced players. The Buccaneers previously eliminated the Eagles from the playoffs, making this matchup even more crucial.
With the bye week approaching in Week 5, the Eagles might be forced to reassess their strategy if both Smith and Brown remain unavailable.
Who Will Fill the Void?
If Smith is out, Jahan Dotson is expected to step up as the primary target. However, Dotson has struggled to make an impact so far, with just three targets in the first three games despite running 94 routes. He’s caught three of those targets but has managed only 14 yards, prompting questions about his ability to fill the gap left by Smith and Brown.
Another alternative available on the active roster is rookie Johnny Wilson. Although he has demonstrated talent as a blocker, his ability to collect passes has not yet materialized. Wilson’s tenacity was commended by Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni, but he also said that Wilson needs to show what he can do in the receiving game. With Smith and Brown down, Wilson may get a lot of playing time.
Veteran Presence and New Faces
With Britain Covey likely out for at least six weeks, the Eagles might consider signing veteran wide receiver Parris Campbell, who was elevated to the active roster in Week 3. Campbell managed two receptions against the Saints and could provide some much-needed experience in a depleted receiving corps.
Philadelphia’s passing game could look quite different if they enter Week 4 without their top three wide receivers. A combination of Dotson, Wilson, and possibly Campbell may be the starting trio against the Buccaneers.
Fantasy Football Implications
The injury to Smith significantly complicates matters for fantasy football players. With both Smith and Brown out, tight end Dallas Goedert becomes a critical asset for those managing their lineups. Goedert has demonstrated his reliability as a pass-catcher and will likely see increased targets in the absence of the team’s top wideouts.
While Smith’s injury is a setback, it could provide an opportunity for other players to step up. However, Dotson’s lack of production thus far raises concerns for those considering him as a fantasy option.
What’s Next for the Eagles?
The Eagles are facing a challenging situation as they prepare for the Buccaneers. The absence of both Smith and Brown would not only impact the team’s passing game but could also affect their overall offensive strategy. With the team’s bye week approaching, there is a possibility for key players to return to health, but for now, the Eagles must rely on less experienced options to carry the load.
As the situation develops, fans and fantasy players alike will be keeping a close eye on Smith’s recovery and the Eagles’ preparations for Week 4. Check back for updates as more information becomes available regarding Smith’s condition and the team’s injury status.
Read More: Real Betis: The Underdogs Rising to Triumph Over Mallorca
