Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Today
The Philadelphia Eagles enter their Week 13 showdown with the Chicago Bears carrying a mix of concern and relief, as the team released its final Black Friday injury report. The update delivered one piece of news that immediately stirred anxiety across Eagles Nation — but also two major positives that should help stabilize confidence heading into a crucial NFC matchup.
The most significant blow is the official confirmation that right tackle Lane Johnson will not play. His lingering foot injury, sustained last week, failed to progress enough for medical clearance. Losing Johnson is one of the toughest challenges Philadelphia could face at this stage of the season. Against a Bears defense known for physicality and late-game surges, the absence of the veteran tackle will test the depth and adaptability of the Eagles’ offensive front.
Johnson has long been regarded as the steady force anchoring the line — a protector, tone-setter, and one of the most consistently dominant linemen in the league. His ability to neutralize elite pass rushers and open lanes in the run game makes him irreplaceable. Without him, the Eagles will need contributions from younger players and backup linemen to keep the offense functioning at its usual rhythm.
Yet despite the loss of Johnson, there is uplifting news that brings balance to the injury picture. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who missed both Tuesday’s and Wednesday’s practices with shoulder and chest injuries, returned as a full participant on Thursday and carries no injury designation for Friday’s game. His presence is a major boost, especially given his importance on intermediate routes, timing plays, and deep-shot opportunities.
Alongside Smith, running back Saquon Barkley also received a full clearance. After being limited earlier in the week due to a groin issue, Barkley practiced fully on Thursday and is set to play without restrictions. His combination of explosion, pass-catching ability, and drive-sustaining runs will be essential as the Eagles look to maintain offensive balance in Johnson’s absence.
However, two additional players have been ruled out: Xavier Gipson (shoulder) and Myles Hinton (back), both of whom will miss the Week 13 matchup.
Friday’s contest kicks off at 3:00 PM ET, with both the Eagles and Bears entering at 8–3 and firmly in the playoff race. Philadelphia will rely heavily on the return of Smith and Barkley to compensate for the loss of their offensive cornerstone. A win on Black Friday would not only steady the ship — it would reinforce the Eagles’ push toward postseason positioning as December football arrives.
