The Philadelphia Eagles will confront the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 15 of the NFL season, both teams contending with significant player absences. The Eagles, coming off a disappointing loss to the Chargers, are still reeling from injuries but managed to avoid any new significant setbacks. Meanwhile, the Raiders will be without starting quarterback Geno Smith and starting left tackle Kolton Miller, impacting their chances in this crucial matchup.
The Eagles’ recent performance has been lackluster, losing their last three games. They elevated Andre’ Sam from the practice squad for this contest, with Sam Howell designated as the emergency quarterback. The absence of Lane Johnson, their starting right tackle, is particularly concerning; the Eagles have failed to win any games this season when Johnson does not start. Despite initial optimism regarding his potential return after an injury suffered against the Lions, the Eagles decided not to risk his health for this game.
Another notable absence for Philadelphia is defensive tackle Jalen Carter, who has been sidelined after undergoing a procedure on his shoulder following the Eagles’ Week 13 loss to the Bears. This marks the second consecutive game that Carter will miss. Additionally, linebacker Josh Uche has been listed as inactive, indicating the Eagles’ depth at the position is being tested.
For the Raiders, the situation is similarly dire. Smith injured his right shoulder during a loss to the Broncos, leaving Kenny Pickett to take the helm as the starting quarterback. Pickett performed admirably in relief, completing 8 of 11 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown against a tough Denver defense. Smith has struggled this season, leading the league with 14 interceptions and holding a total Expected Points Added (EPA) of -70.73, ranking him 70th in the NFL.
In addition to Smith, the Raiders will miss left tackle Kolton Miller, who has been placed on injured reserve but recently returned to practice for the first time since Week 4. Miller, a first-round draft pick in 2018, is considered the team’s best offensive lineman. His absence will be felt as Stone Forsythe steps in to fill the void, having started the last nine games.
The Raiders also face challenges with their offensive line, as right guard Jackson Powers-Johnson is likely finished for the season with an ankle injury. This places additional pressure on third-round rookie Caleb Rogers, who is now the starter at that position.
On the defensive side, cornerback Kyu Blu-Kelly is expected to be placed on injured reserve after suffering a ruptured patellar tendon, effectively ending his season. Blu-Kelly had made a significant contribution with 40 tackles and three interceptions. His absence will force rookie Darien Porter to step up in a starting role alongside Eric Stokes, who is also a key player in the secondary.
As both teams prepare for this critical game, the Eagles will look to overcome their injury woes and regain momentum, while the Raiders aim to capitalize on their home-field advantage. The outcome of this matchup could have significant implications for playoff positioning as the season approaches its final stretch.
