Next in Line

PHILADELPHIA – Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni on Friday offered a lukewarm response when asked about the health status of wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who missed both Wednesday and Thursday due to a hamstring injury and was not present for the stretch period open to reporters on Friday afternoon.

Later, Smith was ruled out for Sunday night’s game against the Rams, leaving the Eagles thin in the way of wide receiver depth.

WR Jahan Dotson could be called upon more in DeVonta Smith’s absence.

With Smith unavailable, the team has little experience to tap into in filling the void.

Third-year pro Jahan Dotson, who has reeled in 9-of-17 targets for 106 yards after coming over in a late summer trade with the Commanders, will serve as the immediate benefactor.

The Eagles also have a pair of Day 3 rookies in Johnny Wilson and Ainias Smith waiting in the wings, though neither has more than seven targets on the season. Wilson has flashed as a blocker, and Smith, since joining the active roster after an early season stint on injured reserve, seemingly has a package of plays in the red zone.

There is also a distinct possibility that third-year pro Britain Covey, working his way back from a Week 3 shoulder injury, could rejoin the active roster as early as Sunday. Covey, by the way, is a player in which Jalen Hurts has considerable trust.

The Eagles held their final practice of the week Friday ahead of a Saturday departure to Los Angeles.

– Andrew DiCecco (@AndrewDiCecco) is a Staff Reporter/Content Producer for InsideTheBirds.com.