As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for the Week 7 action, fans are wondering if a heel injury will prevent star defensive tackle Jalen Carter from suiting up against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
Getting 14 days off between games felt like the right move as it gave him the time he needed to recover. Carter was a full participant on Wednesday, and following practice, he said he was good to go for the contest against the Vikings, per Olivia Reiner of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Things seemed to be heading in the right direction until Carter took a slight step back on Thursday, as he was limited in the latest practice. This doesn't mean that he won't play in Week 7; however, it shows that the Eagles defender may have felt some discomfort in his heel after being a full go the day before.
Jalen Carter's Week 7 Availability Uncertain After Thursday's Practice
In Carter's absence against the New York Giants last week, Philadelphia allowed 172 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. The Eagles relied on Moro Ojomo, Byron Young, Ty Robinson, and Gabe Hall to fill in those reps, and Ojomo was the only one who played well in Carter's place.
Young, Robinson, and Hall all finished with a 55.0 or lower overall Pro Football Focus grades, while combining for just two hurries in this game. Carter's absence would open up a void along the interior, and that's not something Philadelphia is looking to deal with in this outing.
The Eagles have already had to play without Carter for two games this season. They've gone 1-1 in those outings, but they are hoping that'll be the last time in 2025. In four games this season, Carter has secured 10 total tackles, six quarterback hits, and one tackle for loss. According to PFF, he has a 59.8 overall grade and a 72.1 pass-rush grade.
Everyone knows the impact that Carter has on the field. He opens things up for other guys along the defensive front and can take over any game, which is what the Eagles need on a weekly basis to establish their status as contenders.
Friday's practice session will paint a clearer picture of Carter's status for Sunday's game. Fans and everyone in the building hope he can give it a go, as the Georgia product said he would be able to earlier in the week.