The Philadelphia Eagles faced a tough week leading up to their matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, knowing they would be missing three key offensive starters. The situation was solidified early Sunday morning, confirming their absences.
Receiver DeVonta Smith was ruled out due to a concussion, while A.J. Brown will miss the game because of a hamstring injury. In a significant blow, five-time All-Pro offensive tackle Lane Johnson was also confirmed as inactive.
In addition to these losses, linebacker Devin White was scratched on Saturday for personal reasons, leaving the Eagles with a thin roster. To address the missing players, the Eagles activated Parris Campbell and John Ross from the practice squad to fill the gaps left by Smith and Brown.
With Johnson sidelined, offensive lineman Darian Kinnard will make his first appearance of the season, marking just the second game of his career. Kinnard previously played in 2022 for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Tyler Steen is expected to be the top reserve on the offensive line, ready to step in if any of the starters are injured during the game. Other healthy scratches for the Eagles include guard Trevor Keegan, defensive tackle Byron Young, and third-string quarterback Tanner McKee.
On the Buccaneers’ side, there were concerns about injuries, but they received positive updates on Sunday morning. Star defensive tackle Vita Vea, who missed the previous week’s game against Denver due to a knee injury, has been cleared to play.
Running backs Rachaad White and Bucky Irving are also set to play after being listed as questionable due to illness and a hamstring issue, respectively.
However, the Buccaneers will be without defensive starters Calijah Kancey and Antoine Winfield, who were ruled out on Friday due to calf and foot injuries, respectively. This adds another layer of challenge for Tampa as they prepare to face a depleted Eagles squad.