With the Eagles staring at a 2‑5 record and a string of key players sidelined, left tackle Jordan Mailata told reporters that blaming injuries is “bullcrap.”
Key points
- Jordan Mailata publicly dismissed injury excuses, urging the Eagles to focus on performance.
- Philadelphia’s injury list includes key offensive players and its starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts.
- The Week 8 game against Washington is viewed as a pivotal moment that could determine whether the Eagles continue rebuilding or make major roster moves.
Philadelphia’s 2026 campaign has turned into a litany of setbacks, and the team entered Week 8 with a 2‑5 record and a mounting list of injured starters. Running backs Saquon Barkley, DeVonta Smith, Dontayvion Wicks and Jihaad Campbell missed all practice that week and were expected to sit out the upcoming game against the Washington Commanders.
Adding to the woes, three running backs have already been placed on injured reserve and quarterback Jalen Hurts was ruled out for the season after being diagnosed with blood clots. Despite the roster attrition, Mailata, the Eagles’ starting left tackle, refused to let the injuries serve as a scapegoat.
Injury‑laden roster raises questions
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Mailata said, “We’re not the only team going through injuries. We can’t feel sorry for ourselves because we are. That’s bullcrap! Everyone here on this team, in this locker room, is here for a reason.” He emphasized that the team must focus on execution rather than dwelling on who’s hurt.
The Eagles have lost five straight games after a Week 7 defeat to the Dallas Cowboys, a loss that saw the defense surrender 416 yards—the most allowed in the Vic Fangio era. The opening‑week victory over Washington (24‑22) now feels distant as the franchise looks to halt the slide.
Mailata’s blunt response to the media
Washington, entering the game with a 1‑4‑1 record, also battles its own injury issues, making the matchup a test of depth and resilience for both clubs. A win could be a lifeline for Philadelphia; another loss might push general manager Howie Roseman toward a roster overhaul and significant trades to jump‑start a rebuild.
Reader questions
What did Jordan Mailata say about the Eagles' injury situation?
Mailata told reporters that using injuries as an excuse is “bullcrap” and that the team must stop feeling sorry for itself and play regardless of who is hurt.
Which Eagles players were expected to miss the Week 8 game?
Running backs Saquon Barkley, DeVonta Smith, Dontayvion Wicks and Jihaad Campbell missed practice and were projected to sit out the game against the Washington Commanders.
Source: heavy.com