Among the few problems facing the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles is a difficult offensive line decision. Guard Landon Dickerson has been consistently injured early in the season, and it is showing up in a declining performance. Playing through injury is quickly reaching a point where it is more hurtful than helpful for the NFC's top contender.
If you doubt this, take a look at Dickerson's pass protection grades, which have reached over 50 just once this season according to Pro Football Focus this season. Dickerson has also allowed 13 pressures and three sacks, putting him on pace to smash his career highs in sacks (five in 2023 and 2024) and pressures (38 in 2023) allowed.
This makes it clear that Dickerson simply isn't himself, and it is time to make a change. This doesn't mean benching the guard long-term. However, it is clear from the current level of performance that he isn't healthy, and it is time to give Dickerson enough time to return to full health.
Eagles Guard Landon Dickerson Continues Struggling as Injury Concerns Mount
There simply isn't a reason to continue to trot Dickerson out if he is going to play at this level. Having his replacement in the lineup is arguably an upgrade over this version of the veteran. Leaving Philly no choice but to change the starting lineup and give the starter time off. The Eagles are already favored over the next two weeks against the Denver Broncos and New York Giants and can afford to sit down one piece of the strongest unit.
Philly has done an incredible job building the trenches on both sides of the ball and can survive an injury. With this in mind, sitting Dickerson is the clearest path forward. The current version of the starter simply not living up to franchise standards. In no way does this diminish the future value or take away from what has been accomplished. Rather, it acknowledges the obvious and asks the guard to sit down and prioritize his health.
Looking at the current depth chart, it seems that Brett Toth would be the most likely option to step into the starting lineup. With an adequate replacement available, it is past time to make the obvious move with the understanding that returning to full health will improve a performance that hasn't been anywhere close to the guard's typical standards even it continues the Eagles recent injury frustrations.