This past Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, the Eagles suffered two pretty notable injuries. Linebacker Davion Taylor sprained his knee and is likely heading to IR, according to head coach Nick Sirianni.
As for running back Jordan Howard, he’s unlikely to suit up this week against the Giants, but he won’t be placed on IR and could be back for the following week against the Jets. The play in which Howard suffered the knee injury wasn’t pretty. His limp off the field was pretty noticeable and he didn’t return to the contest.
They really dodged a bullet with Howard’s injury. He’s been a revelation for this Eagles offense since being activated off the practice squad in Week 8.
Howard has rushed 54 times for 274 yards and three touchdowns over the past four weeks. His 5.4 yards per carry average is sixth-highest among running backs with at least 50 carries this season.
His bruising, north-south running style is a perfect complement to the Eagles backfield. Miles Sanders is the big play threat that can make anyone miss in the open field, Howard is the bruiser, and Boston Scott provides a little bit of everything.
He’s become a pivotal part of the Eagles rushing attack. On the year, Howard has totaled 176 yards after contact and is averaging 3.45 yards after contact per rush. Both Sanders and Scott are averaging under three yards after contact per attempt.
The Eagles are set to face the 17th-ranked rush defense this week in New York, so Howard’s absence shouldn’t hinder Philly’s offensive game plan too much. Kenny Gainwell, a healthy scratch last week, will likely be activated and get some playing time against the Giants in Week 12.
Upon the initial viewing, Howard’s injury seemed much more significant. The fact that he’ll maybe be out for one or two weeks is great news for this team.