Philadelphia Eagles Face Massive Backfield Depleted by Injuries

The Philadelphia Eagles are dealing with a wave of severe injuries and roster setbacks during the 2026 NFL season. Following a 38-21 Monday Night Football defeat to the Dallas Cowboys, the Eagles dropped to a 2-5 record and extended their losing streak to five games. The team has already lost quarterback Jalen Hurts for the season due to blood clots, endured the mid-season retirement of Lane Johnson, and traded Cam Jurgens.

The physical toll has hit the running back position particularly hard. Superstar running back Saquon Barkley played through hamstring and back issues during the game against Dallas. Despite laboring on the field and finishing with just nine touches for 81 yards and a touchdown, Barkley expressed optimism after the game. He stated that his hamstring came out great and that his back issue should not sideline him long-term.

However, depth behind Barkley has been severely depleted. The Eagles have seen injuries cascade through their running back room, losing Tank Bigsby, Will Shipley, Dameon Pierce, and Carson Steele. Pierce suffered an undisclosed injury during a kick return in the fourth quarter against the Cowboys, while other reserves remain sidelined.

With injuries mounting across the depth chart, Elijah Mitchell could potentially step in as the team's starting running back if Barkley and Pierce are unable to play. Mitchell, along with Pierce, had also taken on kickoff return duties after Britain Covey exited the game with a knee injury in the first quarter.

The situation leaves head coach Nick Sirianni and his coaching staff with limited options as they prepare for a short week. The Eagles are scheduled to face the Washington Commanders on Sunday night, leaving little time for recovery and evaluation of their remaining healthy personnel.

Philadelphia will rely heavily on practice reports and medical staff evaluations in the coming days to determine availability. Roster adjustments may be necessary as the team attempts to stabilize its offense and defense amid mounting physical concerns.