Dallas Goedert's Anticipated Return Energizes Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are poised to receive a significant boost this week with the expected return of their standout tight end, Dallas Goedert. After nursing a hamstring injury, Goedert is set to lace up once more against the Dallas Cowboys, a matchup that promises to further invigorate the Eagles' explosive offense.
Goedert has been sidelined for several weeks due to the injury, but his absence didn't necessitate a stint on the injured reserve—an indication of both the severity of the injury and the team's optimism regarding his recovery. His progression culminated in a full practice participation on Wednesday, solidifying his readiness to contribute on game day.
Before being sidelined, Goedert was a pivotal component of the Eagles' offensive machinery, racking up 24 catches for 301 yards across the first five games of the season. His return is timely for an Eagles unit that, despite its recent successes, values the unique dynamic Goedert brings. As the team ranks third in the NFL in points scored per game (31.0) and fifth in total yards (394.3), Goedert’s reintegration coordinates perfectly with their quest for dominance.
"This was like the latest I wanted to be back. Obviously, I would've loved to be back last week in the Kelly Greens and suit up for that," Goedert remarked, reflecting on his eagerness to return. "This was the game we knew for sure that I would be good, and we're tracking in the right direction."
During Goedert's recovery, the Eagles relied on backup tight end Grant Calcaterra, who admirably filled the void with 13 catches for 160 yards. Goedert was effusive in his praise for Calcaterra's contributions, acknowledging, "He definitely took advantage of his opportunity. And I'm hoping now with what he did, the 12 personnel with me and him, our package can grow, and we can get a little more pass game out of it while continuing the run game that we've had in the past. He played really well."
The Eagles' efforts have not gone unnoticed in a season marked by injuries. Wide receiver A.J. Brown also dealt with a hamstring issue earlier in the year, resulting in a three-game absence. Notably, key offensive players Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Goedert have shared the field for a mere five quarters this season, underscoring the injury challenges Philadelphia has had to navigate.
For Goedert, maintaining a positive outlook during his recovery has been essential. "It's always frustrating, but you just gotta take what comes to you. I never want to be injured, but you just gotta make sure you keep a positive attitude," he explained. His anticipation to return energized his rehabilitation, "You've been paying attention in meetings, so you know the little nuances of things that we've changed over the few weeks. For me, it's just looking forward to the day that I get back because that keeps me motivated."
The matchup against the Cowboys is not just another division game; it figuratively signals a personal and team milestone for Goedert. The hunger to contribute, especially amid the success and camaraderie the Eagles have developed, fuels his readiness. "You feel like you're an important piece, and when you go down, nothing stops. Everything's gotta keep moving," Goedert expressed. "You just get put on the back burner, but it just makes you hungry to be back out there, especially with the success we've had and the amount of fun the guys have been having. I'm excited to be a part of that again."
Goedert's return not only amplifies the team's offensive prowess but also renews hope for what this group can achieve when at full strength. The Eagles' faithful can anticipate a game that might just be the spark needed to push their team into a new echelon of NFL contention.