Making Sense Of the Eagles’ Inactives

The following Eagles are inactive for today’s 1 p.m. matchup against the Redskins: Michael Vick, Greg Salas, Chris Polk, Stanley Havili, Darryl Tapp, Danny Watkins and Matt Kopa.

The surprises on the list are Watkins and Tapp. Watkins did not appear on the injury report all week and looks to be a healthy scratch. The Eagles have two backup offensive linemen: Matt Tennant and Demetress Bell. Tennant would presumably enter the game in the event that Evan Mathis, Dallas Reynolds or Jake Scott were to suffer an injury. Bell is the swing tackle.

As for Tapp, the Eagles have tightened their defensive line rotation in recent weeks, allowing starting defensive ends Trent Cole and Brandon Graham to play more snaps. This gives younger players Vinny Curry and Phillip Hunt a chance to play more.

Despite being healthy, Vick is inactive. He has not dressed since suffering a concussion against the Cowboys on Nov. 11. Trent Edwards will serve as Nick Foles’ backup.

LeSean McCoy returns to the lineup for the first time since Nov. 18 when he sustained a concussion in the final two minutes of the first meeting with the Redskins. He’ll start but will likely be eased back in, Andy Reid said during the week. Bryce Brown figures to see a fair share of playing time.

Brent Celek missed last week’s game because of a concussion. He’s back in the lineup today. Tight end Evan Moore, who was signed during the week, is active. Emil Igwenagu replaces Havili at fullback. He could see some snaps at tight end too.

Don’t forget to join us for a live chat during today’s game. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.

Follow Sheil Kapadia on Twitter and e-mail him at skapadia@phillymag.com.
Become a fan of Birds 24/7 on Facebook.