Eagles Enter Season With Few Injuries, But Questions Remain

Entering the Season on a High Note

As the 2026 NFL season begins, the Philadelphia Eagles are entering Week 1 with one of the healthiest rosters in the league. After enduring a brutal injury-plagued campaign in 2025, the team now has a clean bill of health heading into their matchup against the Washington Commanders. This contrast is striking — last season, the Eagles were derailed by injuries, and even key play-calling decisions under Kevin Patullo left fans questioning the direction.

With this new chapter beginning, it's worth examining how the Eagles' injury report stacks up compared to past seasons, what that means for their strategy, and whether their success will rely on more than just physical readiness.

"This is a fresh start. The team's energy is good, and we're looking forward to building momentum," said head coach Jonathan Castillo.

Key Injuries: A Closer Look

The final injury report for the Eagles ahead of Week 1 is surprisingly light. The team reported no major injuries to their starting lineup, including top performers like Jalen Hurts, Tyler Hilton, and Derrick Morgan. This is a stark difference from the previous season, where the Eagles were dealing with persistent issues across multiple positions.

• Jalen Hurts — No injury concerns, expected to start at quarterback
• Tyler Hilton — Healthy, ready for action
• Derrick Morgan — Injured, but expected to be available
• DeVonta Smith — Out with a shoulder issue, but his return is anticipated in the near future

This clear picture of health gives the Eagles an opportunity to make up for last year's struggles. However, while injuries are down, there are still some lingering concerns that need attention.

What Went Wrong Last Year?

Looking back at the 2025 season, it was a tale of missed opportunities and missteps. The team's performance took a hit due to injuries, particularly to key players in both the offensive and defensive lines. While Kevin Patullo's play-calling came under fire for questionable decisions, the root issue was that the Eagles lacked depth due to injuries.

The lack of depth became apparent during crucial moments — especially in the playoffs, where teams with more stable rosters were able to outlast them. This season, the Eagles are hoping that their health and improved strategy will be enough to avoid a similar fate.

What the Injuries Mean for the Future

Despite being healthy now, the Eagles are not immune to potential setbacks. The NFL is a grueling league, and even the most robust teams face injuries mid-season. The team's ability to manage their roster effectively will be critical in maintaining momentum.

The Eagles' front office has also been working on strengthening the depth chart by signing veteran players and making strategic trades. This move shows that they're prepared for what lies ahead — not just with injuries, but with competition.

"We've learned from last year's mistakes. We're more focused than ever on preparation, both physically and mentally," said Jonathan Castillo.

A New Era for the Eagles?

The Eagles' 2026 season could mark a turning point. With better health and improved coaching, there's reason to believe they're building toward something special. But as with any team, expectations must be balanced with realism.

The Commanders, while not a powerhouse this year, have shown resilience in recent seasons. The Eagles will need to approach their Week 1 game with confidence but without overconfidence — especially considering the high stakes that come with a new season.

Ultimately, if the Eagles can maintain their current momentum and avoid injury setbacks, they may be well-positioned for a strong finish to the season. But only time will tell whether this is truly a new era or just another chapter in a long, winding road.