Nick Sirianni is playing with fire by sticking with laboring Eagles star
There aren’t many NFL players tougher than Philadelphia Eagles left guard Landon Dickerson.
During last year’s playoff run, Dickerson was an ironman for the Eagles. He injured his left knee during the NFC Championship Game while playing center in place of teammate Cam Jurgens; clearly operating at less than 100 percent, he returned two weeks later and gutted out every meaningful snap possible against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX.
Dickerson has battled more injuries to open the 2025 regular season. During a training camp practice, he suffered a meniscus issue — this time to his right knee — that required minor surgery, leaving his availability for the first month of the season up in the air.
True to form, Dickerson entered Week 1 with no injury designation despite dealing with back and knee issues. He’s since played 235 snaps through the Eagles’ first four games of the season, per
Dickerson’s dedication to his craft and teammates is admirable. His performance has left much to be desired, though, and head coach Nick Sirianni is tempting fate by letting his star lineman struggle through multiple injuries this early in the season.
Philadelphia Eagles LG Landon Dickerson is struggling in pass protection to start the 2025 season
Jalen Hurts was sacked twice during Sunday’s 31-25 win over the Buccaneers, and both of them came through Dickerson's lane. Eagles writer Anthony DiBona believes it’s time to start worrying about Philly’s Pro Bowl left guard, due to his health.
“Landon Dickerson has become a liability this season, as he continues to try and play through multiple injuries. Dickerson has already allowed 13 total pressures and three sacks through Philadelphia’s first four games, according to Pro Football Focus. To put Dickerson’s struggles in perspective, he has never allowed more than five sacks in a single season.”
Despite a 4-0 start and incredible efficiency in the red zone — the Eagles have now converted touchdowns on all 11 drives that have breached the opponent’s 20-yard line — Sirianni’s offense has failed to string together four quarters of good football. New play caller Kevin Patullo has become the easy scapegoat, but the team’s poor play up front has been impossible to ignore through the first month of the season. Hurts is averaging a career-low 6.0 yards per pass attempt; the running game, with Saquon Barkley, has plummeted to 3.5 yards per attempt, which ranks 29th in the NFL.
There’s blame to go around, and the offensive line deserves its fair share of the pie. Dickerson is obviously struggling. Superstar right tackle Lane Johnson has been on and off the field for two weeks due to a nagging back injury. Right guard Tyler Steen hurt his knee during Sunday's game, missed a handful of snaps, and returned with an apparent limp.
Sirianni will have some difficult decisions during practice this week. The Eagles can’t afford to lose critical protectors like Dickerson and Johnson for an extended period of time. They also can’t really afford to rest them this week, not with another formidable defensive front in the Denver Broncos waiting on deck.
Philly’s top guys will likely stay on the field as long as they can still walk. The standard is the standard, to steal a quote from Mike Tomlin.
But is that the best approach for the team this early in the season? That figures to be a major talking point in Philadelphia going forward.
HEARTWARMING STORY: Garrett Crochet Launches "Puppy Haven" Sanctuary for Stray Dogs in Boston
BOSTON — In a world where athletes are often defined by their on-field performances, Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet
On September 29, Crochet opened the doors of “Puppy Haven,”
Located in the heart of the city, Puppy Haven will offer a safe haven for dogs, featuring top-tier facilities including 24/7 veterinary services, a spay/neuter program, and recovery areas where dogs can heal both physically and emotionally. The sanctuary is designed to create a safe environment for animals in need, offering not only shelter but the hope of finding a loving family.
The mission of Puppy Haven goes beyond just providing shelter. Crochet has vowed to ensure the dogs receive proper medical attention, socialization, and rehabilitation before being rehomed. “This isn’t just about saving lives; it’s about restoring dignity to these animals. They deserve to feel loved and wanted,” Crochet said, visibly emotional during the opening ceremony.
While the sanctuary was built with a significant investment, the real value lies in the difference it will make in the lives of countless stray dogs. The initiative is a testament to Crochet’s deep compassion and commitment to his community. “I’ve always believed in using my platform for good,” he continued. “The biggest victory I can have isn’t in a game, it’s in seeing these little creatures find hope again.”
The Puppy Haven sanctuary has already received overwhelming support from animal lovers across Boston and beyond. The local community, including fellow Red Sox players and fans, have rallied behind the cause, donating funds, supplies, and their time. The grand opening event also featured a series of adoption drives and partnerships with local animal rescue groups, helping to spread awareness of the sanctuary’s mission.
Crochet is no stranger to giving back, having been involved in various charitable endeavors over the years. However, this new chapter in his life marks a significant turning point as he continues to channel his passion for helping those in need — both human and animal alike.
“The work is just beginning,” Crochet added. “This is just the start. There are so many more animals who need us, and I plan on doing everything I can to make sure they get the care and love they deserve.”
As Puppy Haven opens its doors, Crochet has set an example that transcends sports. In a world often focused on personal achievements and trophies, Crochet has shown that the true victories lie in making a real, lasting difference in the lives of others. For the strays of Boston, the real win is the hope of a second chance, and Garrett Crochet is leading the way to that brighter future.
