Eagles Shock NFL: 5 Must-See Moments from Explosive Joint Practice with Patriots

Philadelphia — The Philadelphia Eagles’ turbulent preseason took another dramatic turn Saturday night when rookie running back Ja’Quinden Jackson was immobilized and driven off in an ambulance after making a tackle on the opening kickoff against the New England Patriots. The team said the 24-year-old has full movement in all extremities and is undergoing tests at a local hospital. Injury scares have been a theme of camp, but there was welcome relief earlier in the week. Pro Bowl wideout DeVonta Smith (hamstring) practiced on a limited basis for the first time since Aug. 8, while first-round rookies Quinyon Mitchell (glute) and Cooper DeJean (groin) were full participants, instantly boosting a secondary that struggled in the preseason opener. Saturday’s matchup lacked star power on the other sideline. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel chose to rest virtually every projected starter after two intense joint practices, citing the need to “get our guys ready” for Week 1 rather than risk further wear-and-tear in August. That decision gave Philadelphia’s depth pieces extended reps—crucial as head coach Nick Sirianni evaluates roster spots 40 through 53 before Tuesday’s cut-down deadline. Key takeaways for Eagles fans • Running-back depth watch: With Jackson sidelined and Tank Bigsby nursing a toe injury, veteran Saquon Barkley and rookie Will Shipley are the last healthy backs. Look for GM Howie Roseman to scour the waiver wire if Jackson’s tests reveal anything serious. • Cornerback competition: Mitchell and DeJean rotated with Kelee Ringo and Michael Carter II. Mitchell flashed with a pass breakup on Dontayvion Wicks, while Carter ripped a ball away from Quez Watkins for the day’s highlight. • Offensive line stability: Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson again dominated 1-on-1s; the only hiccup was a Cam Jurgens bull-rush anchor test versus Jordan Davis. Philadelphia’s starting five remains intact—a luxury few contenders enjoy this summer. • Jalen Hurts’ progressions: The franchise QB showcased under-center play-action looks, zipping across-body throws to Elijah Moore and Danny Gray, a wrinkle new OC Sean Mannion has emphasized to diversify the attack. What’s next The Eagles break camp Monday before returning to Lincoln Financial Field for the preseason finale against the Jets. Sirianni said starters will see “a series or two” to maintain rhythm after a sluggish exhibition debut. Monitoring Smith’s workload and getting Barkley live carries top the priority list, while defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is expected to unleash more exotic blitz packages after experimenting with Zack Baun and rookie Cole Wisniewski in Foxborough. Bottom line Despite Saturday’s frightening scene, early indications on Jackson are encouraging, and the Eagles’ injury report is finally trending in the right direction. With key playmakers returning just as final roster decisions loom, Philadelphia can shift focus from survival mode to fine-tuning a roster still expected to contend for the NFC crown in 2026.