Philadelphia Eagles DVOA, Stats, & NFL Rankings

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kenny Pickett (ribs) will start in Week 17 against the Dallas Cowboys as Jalen Hurts remains in concussion protocol. While Pickett also appeared on the injury report this week due to a rib issue sustained in last week's game, he has since been cleared to play. In Week 16, Pickett completed 14 of 24 pass attempts for 143 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also contributed 13 rushing yards on three attempts. Pickett's Week 16 performance left much to be desired, ranking 27th in yards per attempt and 28th in passer rating. Despite his struggles, Dallas offers room for optimism, as their defense has allowed the eighth-most passing yards per game since Week 11. Still, the Eagles are likely to lean heavily on their rushing attack and defensive play, positioning Pickett more as a game manager than a fantasy asset. Consider him a risky QB2 option.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley will look to lead the Eagles offense in Week 17 as they host the Dallas Cowboys in a pivotal divisional matchup. Barkley is coming off a strong 150-yard performance and remains the focal point of Philadelphia's ground game. With Jalen Hurts questionable due to a concussion, the Eagles could lean heavily on Barkley to control the tempo against a Dallas defense that struggles in run defense, ranking last in the NFL in EPA (expected points added). Barkley's high workload and explosive play potential make him a must-start option in all formats this week. Expect another strong outing from Philadelphia's star running back against a struggling Cowboys team.

According to Dave Zangaro of NBCS Philly, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's divisional tilt against the Dallas Cowboys. As a result, Kenny Pickett will get the starting nod. Hurts suffered this concussion during the first half of their game against the Commanders last weekend. Hurts also could not practice all week, which could put him in danger of missing Week 18's game. Fantasy managers should pay close attention to his status during practice next week. In relief last weekend, Pickett went 14-for-24 with 143 yards, a score, and an interception. Fantasy managers should only consider starting Pickett in deep Superflex formats, as he carries very little upside and high risk, given his lack of offensive production throughout his young career.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (concussion) is not expected to play in Sunday's game against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Pelissero notes that Hurts missed practice on Thursday, which means that he's in one of the earlier portions of the NFL's five-step concussion protocol. The star quarterback would need to clear all five phases before being permitted to play in Week 17. Such progress is possible between now and Sunday, but the expectation is that Hurts will be inactive while Kenny Pickett (rib) draws his first start of the 2024 season. Notably, Pickett is dealing with an injury of his own but expects to have no limitations this weekend against Dallas.

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (knee, rest) was listed as a limited practice participant on Thursday. Brown injured his left knee in practice last Thursday and was spotted wearing a soft brace on it after practice. As long as the 27-year-old can practice again on Friday, though, there's a good chance he'll be removed from the final injury report entirely. Fantasy managers shouldn't really be all that concerned about Brown's knee, but rather quarterback Jalen Hurts' head, as he remains in the concussion protocol and is in danger of missing this weekend's game. Brown's value as a high-end WR1 in fantasy could take a significant hit if backup QB Kenny Pickett (ribs) is forced to make his first start of the year against Dallas. Still, even after Hurts left last Sunday's loss to the division-rival Washington Commanders early, he still finished with eight catches on a season-high 15 targets for 97 yards and a touchdown.