Full Breakdown
Eagles Face Jaguars in London with a Depleted Roster
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Key Playmakers Ruled Out for Week 5 London Game
The Philadelphia Eagles entered Week 5 of the 2026 NFL season without running back Saquon Barkley (hamstring) and wide receiver DeVonta Smith (hamstring). Both missed the previous loss to the Los Angeles Rams and did not practice before the international game. Starting center Drew Kendall (knee) was also ruled out, while edge rusher Jonathan Greenard (ankle) was listed as questionable.
Background & Context
The injury list follows roster changes that reshaped Philadelphia’s offensive line. All-Pro tackle Lane Johnson announced his retirement, and the Eagles traded center Cam Jurgens to the Ravens for draft picks. Backup Tank Bigsby was placed on injured reserve after a core-muscle injury, prompting the signing of running backs Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele and the promotion of rookie Will Shipley.
Data & Statistics
- Saquon Barkley: 190 scrimmage yards, 0 touchdowns in four games; 2.6 yards per run after contact.
- DeVonta Smith: Leads the team with 237 receiving yards despite missing one game.
- Dallas Goedert (TE): Returned to full practice after a knee injury.
- Will Shipley: Projected starter at running back; Dameon Pierce added for depth.
Official Statements & Responses
Veteran lineman Lane Johnson said, “I’m ready to go… the training staff did a good job of trying to bring me back up the right way.”
All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun confirmed his return after concussion protocol, adding, “We’re back. Had a full week of practice… I feel really good.”
Why It Matters / Impact
The loss of Barkley and Smith forces the Eagles to rely on quarterback Jalen Hurts, who entered the report with a calf issue but practiced fully. With the line in flux, the team will lean on a heavier passing attack and increased contributions from tight end Dallas Goedert and rookie receiver Makai Lemon.
Off the field, owner Jeffrey Lurie announced a $500,000 pilot grant and a $170,000 post-doctoral fellowship to support autism research in London, highlighting the franchise’s community engagement during the showcase.
What’s Next
The Eagles travel to London on Saturday for the game against the Jaguars, scheduled to begin at 9:30 a.m. ET on NFL Network. Will Shipley will start at running back, with Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele providing depth. Defensive prospects include the return of Zack Baun and the availability of Quinyon Mitchell (CB) and Jihaad Campbell (LB).
The outcome will shape the Eagles’ offensive strategy for the rest of the season as they seek to rebound from a two-game losing streak while navigating a roster strained by injuries and recent moves.