The Philadelphia Eagles might rue the loss of a key defensive player who could possibly miss the entire 2023 season.
Nick Sirianni’s side hasn’t really featured in injury news this offseason, but according to Philadelphia Inquirer insider Jeff McLane, outside linebacker Patrick Johnson sustained a knee injury during practice on Friday that could potentially sit him out for the year.
The player will undergo further testing to determine the severity of the injury.
Johnson has been one of the top special teams players for Philly over the past two seasons and his role in the defense has become more significant. The 25-year-old has recorded 28 tackles, one tackle for loss, three quarterback hits, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in the last two campaigns and was doing very well in training camp this summer.
The Eagles fielded a formidable defense in 2022, finishing eighth in points allowed and second in offensive yards allowed while permitting the fewest passing yards in the NFL. They kept nine of their opponents under 20 points and two of their three playoff opponents each to seven points.
While Johnson’s injury and potential lengthy absence aren’t expected to throw things awry, the Eagles would certainly hate to lose a body heading into a campaign in which they’ll be keen on fighting to return to the Super Bowl and getting past the line following their disappointment at the end of last season.
