Eagles' Goedert Ready for Return Against Cowboys
In a significant boon for the Philadelphia Eagles, star tight end Dallas Goedert is poised to return to action against the Dallas Cowboys after recovering from a hamstring injury. Goedert's return comes without the need for an injured reserve designation, underscoring the team's confidence in his rapid recovery process. His comeback is eagerly anticipated as he fully participated in Wednesday's practice sessions.
Before his injury, Goedert was showcasing impressive form, recording 24 catches for 301 yards in the first five games of the season. His absence, however, was felt as the Eagles had to rely on backup tight end Grant Calcaterra, who stepped up commendably with 13 catches for 160 yards in Goedert's absence. Reflecting on his comeback, Goedert expressed his anticipation, saying, "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."
The timing of Goedert's return couldn't be more critical for the Eagles. Their high-octane offense is already among the league's best, ranking third in points scored per game (31.0) and fifth in yards per game (394.3). Yet, the offense has seen key players, including A.J. Brown, grapple with injuries. Brown himself missed three games earlier this season due to a hamstring issue, emphasizing the physical demands of the game.
For the Eagles, the synergy between key players such as Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Goedert has been elusive. The quintet has graced the field together for just five quarters this season. Goedert's return is thus viewed as a chance to finally see the full potential of this offensive lineup. Reflecting on the responsibility that comes with being a key player, Goedert shared, "You feel like you're an important piece, and when you go down, nothing stops. Everything's gotta keep moving."
While Goedert was sidelined, he focused on maintaining a positive outlook and staying in top physical condition. "It's always frustrating, but you just gotta take what comes to you," he noted. "I never want to be injured, but you just gotta make sure you keep a positive attitude, and when you get back that you're in the best shape that you can be in."
Goedert is also looking forward to the potential of utilizing the 12 personnel formation alongside Calcaterra, following the latter's strong performances during his absence. "He definitely took advantage of his opportunity," Goedert said of Calcaterra. "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."
The Eagles will need all hands on deck as they prepare to face their rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. As Goedert steps back into his role, he carries with him the hunger and competitive spirit that only time on the sidelines can nurture. "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," he remarked.
For Goedert, ensuring he stays mentally engaged was crucial during his recovery process. "You've been paying attention in meetings, so you know the little nuances of things that we've changed over the few weeks," he stated, acknowledging the evolving nature of the game plans. "For me, it's just looking forward to the day that I get back because that keeps me motivated."
As the Eagles gear up for their showdown with the Cowboys, the return of Dallas Goedert promises to add another dynamic element to an already potent offense. His experience and playmaking ability will be instrumental in what is always a fiercely contested NFC East matchup.