Eagles Face Bills in Week 17 with Key Players Missing

The Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills are set to face off in Week 17, with both teams navigating significant roster challenges. The Eagles are relatively healthy, while the Bills contend with multiple injuries that could impact their performance.

Eagles’ Key Inactives and Injury Updates

The Eagles will be without several notable players for this matchup. Most prominently, right tackle Lane Johnson will miss his sixth consecutive game due to a Lisfranc injury. Given the severity of such injuries, the Eagles are likely exercising caution, focusing on his health for the playoffs.

Linebacker Nakobe Dean also remains sidelined after sustaining a hamstring injury in Week 16 against the Washington Commanders. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio confirmed that Dean avoided a serious long-term injury, but he is not ready to return for this game. Cornerback Michael Carter will also be inactive due to personal reasons.

The Eagles have additional players on injured reserve or dealing with injuries. Running back A.J. Dillon is currently the fourth-string running back behind Saquon Barkley, Tank Bigsby, and Will Shipley.

Defensive back Andrew Mukuba, who has had an inconsistent rookie season, remains on injured reserve but is eligible to return. He has recorded 46 tackles and two interceptions in limited appearances.

Other players on injured reserve include offensive lineman Willie Lampkin, who will not play this season after being placed on IR, and edge rushers Ogbo Okoronkwo and Azeez Ojulari, both dealing with triceps injuries.

Bills’ Injury Challenges Ahead of Matchup

The Buffalo Bills face a challenging situation, with a lengthy injury list affecting their roster. Most notably, kicker Matt Prater will not participate due to a right quadriceps injury. In his absence, Michael Badgley is expected to handle kicking duties for this game.

The Bills will also miss wide receiver Keon Coleman, tight end Dalton Kincaid (knee), safety Jordan Poyer (hamstring), and defensive tackles DaQuan Jones (calf) and Jordan Phillips (ankle).

One of the most significant absences is defensive tackle Ed Oliver, who is on IR but could return later this season. Oliver had an impressive 9.5 sacks in 2023 before suffering a torn biceps injury. His presence on the field will be missed as the Bills aim to secure a playoff spot.

Other players on the Bills’ injured reserve include defensive end Michael Hoecht, who suffered a torn Achilles, and safety Taylor Rapp, who had knee surgery that may end his season.

As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the Eagles will look to capitalize on their healthier roster, while the Bills must navigate the challenges posed by their extensive injury list. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as they head into the playoffs.