Eagles 'Hopeful' Star Players Will Be Available Against Buccaneers
The last time the Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced the Philadelphia Eagles was Week 3 on a Monday night and quarterback Jalen Hurts two touchdowns to lead his side to a 14-point victory inside Raymond James Stadium.
In that game, Eagles receiver A.J. Brown had 131 yards receiving and while he didn't have a touchdown he hurt the Buccaneers' chances of winning that game significantly.
This time around, in the NFL Wild Card Round of the playoffs, Tampa Bay gets another shot at beating Philadelphia, it's on Monday night again, and they might be getting a big of help along the way.
That's because Hurts, Brown, receiver DeVonta Smith, and offensive lineman Cam Jurgens may not be able to play in this rematch.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) throws the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Greg Gaines (96) pressures during the first half at Raymond James Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports
"#Eagles HC Nick Sirianni says he's "hopeful" injured players -- A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Cam Jurgens -- will be available against the #Buccaneers," Mike Garafolo of NFL Network Tweeted on Monday. "Sirianni also confirms rookie S Sydney Brown is out for the season. Brown suffered a torn ACL."
It was already possible the Bucs were catching the Eagles at the right time to get a home upset in the playoffs. After starting 10-1 this season Philadelphia lost five of its last six games and not only lost its grip on the No. 1 Seed in the AFC but lost the NFC East Division race as well.
While the Eagles travel to Florida to face the Buccaneers, the Dallas Cowboys get a home matchup against the Green Bay Packers, and the No. 1 Seed San Francisco 49ers get to rest up. All thanks - at least in part - to the Eagles' epic collapse this season.
Meanwhile, Tampa Bay comes into the postseason winners in five of its last six and is looking to make it six of seven with a trip to the Divisional Round on the line.
Stick with BucsGameday and the Locked On Bucs podcast for more coverage of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers throughout the 2023 season.
