Eagles' injury concerns grow with Barkley and Smith still sidelined

The Philadelphia Eagles find themselves dealing with mounting injury concerns as Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith remain sidelined for their upcoming matchup against the Carolina Panthers. Despite Thursday's early practice, there were no indications that either player would be available to contribute to the team's offense. ESPN's Tim McManus reported that Barkley did not appear during the brief segment of practice that was open to media, while Smith was seen warming up but without a helmet.

By Friday morning, Adam Schefter stated that the situation appeared as though both players would miss practice altogether. Barkley's initial injury was listed as a hamstring issue on Wednesday, while Smith had been noted with both hamstring and toe injuries. These reports of the two key playmakers missing practice have added to Philadelphia's struggles, especially following quarterback Jalen Hurts being ruled out for the game due to a superficial blood clot.

The absence of Barkley exacerbates the Eagles' backfield woes, with Tank Bigsby currently on injured reserve and Will Shipley dealing with a partially torn plantar fascia. If Barkley remains sidelined, the team may need to rely more heavily on the likes of Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele. Smith's potential non-participation would also leave the Eagles without one of their most trusted receiving targets as they prepare for their quarterback change.

While these practice reports have not definitively ruled out Barkley or Smith, the official injury report on Friday will likely offer a clearer picture of the team's situation. For now, the Eagles must brace for the possibility that their offensive depth could be seriously compromised by the injuries to Barkley and Smith.