Eagles center and team leader Jason Kelce will undergo surgery for an elbow injury and it is uncertain if he will be ready for the season opener in 33 days.
The Eagles released a statement: “After trying to work through discomfort in his elbow, it was agreed that a routine ‘clean out’ was in his best interest and would also allow for a speedy recovery.”
Kelce, 34, is entering his 12th year as the Eagles’ starting center. There was no timetable given for Kelce’s return, but Adam Shefter recently tweeted:
“One source said today that the full expectation is Kelce will be ready and healthy week 1.”
The regular season opens on Sept. 11 in Detroit. The Inquirer also reported that the team believes Kelce will be ready for the opener. Kelce hasn’t missed a game since 2014. He has made 122 consecutive starts, tops for all NFL centers.
Kelce missed two practice days in training camp due to Covid complications and rookie Cam Jurgens took the first-team reps. Jurgens earned praise from coaches and teammates alike for his play.
INJURIES EVERYWHERE
Suddenly, the Eagles roster is injury-riddled, as 11 players did not practice Tuesday. One other player did not play due to personal reasons.
Here is Tuesday’s non-practice list:
- Rookie tight end Grant Calcaterra (hamstring)
- Offensive tackle Le’Raven Clark (hamstring)
- Running back Kenny Gainwell (hip)
- Wide receiver John Hightower (groin)
- Cornerback Jimmy Moreland (ankle)
- Running back Boston Scott (concussion)
- Wide receiver DeVonta Smith (groin)
- Safety Jaquiski Tartt (personal reasons)
- Cornerback Kary Vincent Jr. (groin)
- Wide receiver Greg Ward (toe)
- Wide receiver Keric Wheatfall (hamstring)
In addition, starting left tackle Jordan Mailata and offensive lineman Andre Dillard were limited in practice Tuesday as they are returning from concussions.