The Eagles listed starting safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson on their practice report Thursday due to a foot injury. He was not included in the estimated injury update following Wednesday’s walkthrough and played all 61 defensive snaps during Philadelphia’s narrow 22-21 loss to Atlanta on Monday night.
Additionally, the team practiced without receivers A.J. Brown (hamstring) and Johnny Wilson (hamstring), both of whom are at risk of missing the Week 3 matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Wilson appears closer to a return, having participated in practice with a helmet during the portion open to reporters before stepping back.
If Gardner-Johnson is unable to play on Sunday against the Saints, he may be replaced by slot cornerback Avonte Maddox shifting to safety alongside Reed Blankenship. This could open the door for rookie CB Quinyon Mitchell to start outside, with the possibility of moving to the slot when necessary, while Isaiah Rodgers rotates in on the outside. Alternatively, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio could keep Mitchell outside, where he has performed well, and bring in rookie Cooper DeJean for the slot.
The Eagles also have Tristin McCollum on the 53-man roster at safety, along with practice squad safeties J.T. Woods and Andre Sam, either of whom could be elevated if needed.
