Eagles’ Key Players Lane Johnson and Jalen Carter Return to Practice Amid Injury Concerns
Philadelphia, PA – October 2025
The Philadelphia Eagles received some much-needed good news on Wednesday as two of their most vital players, right tackle Lane Johnson and defensive tackle Jalen Carter, returned to practice ahead of their Week 5 showdown against the Denver Broncos. Both players were dealing with shoulder injuries sustained during the team’s Week 4 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, raising concerns about their availability for the upcoming game. However, their return to practice, even in a limited capacity, is a positive sign for the Eagles as they look to extend their undefeated streak.
Lane Johnson’s Status
Lane Johnson, a cornerstone of the Eagles' offensive line, was forced to leave the Week 4 game against the Buccaneers in the second half after suffering a shoulder injury. Despite initial fears, Johnson was seen moving around relatively well in the locker room post-game, though he declined to comment on the severity of his injury.
Johnson’s limited participation in practice on Wednesday is a hopeful sign for the Eagles, who have already faced several injuries this season. His leadership and presence on the offensive line are vital to keeping quarterback Jalen Hurts protected and maintaining the team’s offensive rhythm.
“It’s never easy dealing with injuries, but I’m taking it one step at a time,” Johnson said. “I’m focused on getting back out there and doing what I do best—protecting this team. I’ll be ready for the challenge ahead, no matter what.”
While Johnson’s status remains uncertain for Sunday’s game, his return to the field, even in a limited capacity, will likely give the Eagles the confidence that they can rely on him if he is cleared for action.
Jalen Carter’s Recovery
Jalen Carter, one of the league’s most promising young defensive tackles, also sustained a shoulder injury against the Buccaneers. However, unlike Johnson, Carter managed to continue playing and was even instrumental in helping create an interception with his relentless pressure on Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield.
“The shoulder's a bit banged up, but nothing's going to keep me off the field,” Carter remarked. “I’m pushing through, and I’ll be ready to make plays when the team needs me most. We’re looking to keep the momentum going, and I’ll be part of that.”
Carter’s injury is reportedly a lingering issue from training camp, and while it’s not considered serious, the team’s medical staff will continue to evaluate his condition throughout the week. His ability to apply pressure on the opposing quarterback is vital to the Eagles’ defensive scheme, and his return will significantly bolster their chances of containing the Broncos’ offense.
Team Outlook
As of now, the Eagles have listed both Johnson and Carter as limited participants in practice. While tight end Dallas Goedert was the only player absent from practice on Wednesday, the availability of Johnson and Carter will likely be the focus of much of the team’s attention moving forward.
“We’re just taking it day by day,” said head coach Nick Sirianni. “Both Lane and Jalen are crucial to what we do, but we’re also making sure they’re fully recovered before we push them out there. We trust their judgment and will continue to assess them as the week goes on.”
With the Eagles set to face the Denver Broncos, who have a strong defensive unit, the health of these key players will play a critical role in the team’s success. Johnson’s return to the offensive line and Carter’s presence on defense will be crucial in ensuring the Eagles stay on track to maintain their undefeated record.
As the Eagles prepare for their Week 5 matchup, the spotlight will be on their injured stars. The team remains hopeful that both players will be ready to contribute on Sunday, but until then, they’ll continue to monitor their progress closely. The return of Johnson and Carter is a positive sign, and it shows that the Eagles’ championship aspirations remain intact despite early-season injuries.
With a strong performance from their key players, the Eagles will look to stay at the top of the NFC and continue their push for the playoffs. The next few days will be crucial for determining their lineup, but if Johnson and Carter can play, the Eagles’ road to success looks even brighter.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. Proving Everyone Wrong as Commanders' Surprise Weapon
The Washington Commanders' 2025 season has been a rollercoaster so far, sitting 2-2 after four weeks. They've flip-flopped between home wins and road losses, all while fighting through a multitude of injuries in the early part of their schedule.
It's probably fair to say that most fans expected a better start for Washington after reaching the NFC Championship game in 2024, followed by a series of offseason moves to establish Super Bowl hopeful status. There's no shortage of Commanders players who could be
There have also been some bright spots. One of them is a player who wasn't on anybody's radar before the start of the year.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. is stepping up when the Commanders needed him most
The Commanders entered the preseason with Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler set to be a formidable 1-2 punch in the offensive backfield. Those plans quickly changed when the former was
Seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who was the darling of the Commanders' offseason, was expected to step into the RB1 role as a result. Instead,
Rodriguez, a 2023 sixth-round pick who has been cut and placed on Washington's practice squad on several occasions, was a healthy scratch for the first two games of 2025. After Ekeler's injury, he's come to the fore.
The former Kentucky star had his best performance of the season to date in Week 4, accumulating 59 rushing yards on seven carries. This was highlighted by a 48-yard scamper, showcasing the big-play ability he brings to the offense.
Rodriguez had become a forgotten man in Washington following Croskey-Merritt's emergence and found himself squarely on the roster bubble. Had it not been for the Robinson trade, he may very well have been the odd man out. But he turned heads during a strong preseason, leading the team with 118 rushing yards on only 17 carries. More importantly, this momentum has carried over into the regular season.
The more opportunities Rodriguez gets, the more he should continue to solidify his role. He's quickly gone from an afterthought to a player Washington can't afford to leave out of the offensive game plan. It will be fascinating to watch his continued development throughout the season.
