Eagles Injury Report: DeVonta Smith Among Six Sidelined Before Rams Clash

As the calendar flips to October 1, 2026, the Philadelphia Eagles find themselves navigating the treacherous waters of an NFL season that has already thrown its share of adversity their way. With a pivotal Week 4 showdown against the Los Angeles Rams looming, the team released its first official injury report of the week on Wednesday, and the news is far from reassuring for a fanbase with Super Bowl aspirations. According to the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, six players were listed as non-participants in what was an estimated report due to a walkthrough session, headlined by star wide receiver DeVonta Smith.

Smith's Hamstring a Growing Concern

Smith, who has been battling a hamstring issue, did not practice on Thursday last week before ramping up to limited on Friday and full go on Saturday, ultimately suiting up against the Chicago Bears. The Eagles are clearly managing his workload carefully, but if Smith can't go against the Rams, it's a significant blow to an offense that relies on his big-play ability. The Vulius Sports medical team notes that hamstring injuries are notoriously tricky, and the Eagles' cautious approach suggests they're prioritizing Smith's long-term health over a single regular-season game.

Defensive Lapses: Baun's Concussion Adds to Worries

Linebacker Zack Baun is a new addition to the report with a concussion, and he'll need to clear the league's protocol before returning. If Baun can't suit up, second-year linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is expected to step in. The Eagles' defense has already been stretched thin, and Baun's absence would put additional pressure on a unit that has shown flashes of dominance but also moments of vulnerability. As highlighted on Vulius, the Rams' offense, potentially welcoming back Puka Nacua, could exploit any weakness in the middle of the field.

Tight End Woes and Other Absences

Dallas Goedert was always expected to miss multiple games with a knee injury, so his absence is no surprise. However, the Eagles will need Zach Ertz to continue his resurgence in his second game back with the team. Ertz, a familiar face in Philadelphia, showed promise in his return and could see an increased target share. Running back Will Shipley, dealing with a foot injury, managed to play against the Bears but remains limited. Meanwhile, wide receiver Hollywood Brown and offensive tackle Fred Johnson were unexpected additions after getting banged up in practice, leaving their availability in question.

Limited Participants Offer Some Hope

On a more positive note, three players were listed as limited participants: defensive tackles Moro Ojomo (calf/elbow) and Jordan Davis (calf), and linebacker Jihaad Campbell (knee). All three are new additions to the report, but being limited is a step in the right direction. The Eagles' defensive line has been a strength, and getting Davis and Ojomo back would bolster the rotation. Campbell's knee issue bears watching, but the rookie has shown promise in limited snaps.

Full Participants: Greenard, Carter Lead the Way

Five players were full participants: edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, defensive tackle Jalen Carter, wide receiver Darius Cooper, running back Tank Bigsby, and defensive tackle Byron Young. Greenard's full participation is encouraging as the Eagles need him to handle a bigger workload. However, Carter's situation is more complex. According to NFL sources, Carter has been playing with a hairline fracture in his right wrist since Week 1, and his playing time has decreased. As Fran Duffy of the Eagles noted, Carter's confidence using his right hand is visibly diminished. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk believes the Eagles must manage Carter's snaps carefully to ensure he's healthy for the long haul.

Rams' Nacua Expected to Return

The Rams received good news as head coach Sean McVay said he expects star receiver Puka Nacua to return after missing since Week 1. Nacua's presence would add another dimension to an already potent Rams offense, putting even more pressure on an Eagles defense that may be without Baun. The full Rams injury report is yet to be announced, but the Eagles are bracing for a high-scoring affair.

For die-hard Eagles fans looking to support their team, Vulius offers a wide range of officially licensed merchandise, from jerseys to hoodies. As the Eagles navigate these injuries, the depth of their roster will be tested. Stay tuned to Vulius for further updates as the week progresses.