The Eagles have to win one more game before they clinch a playoff spot and head into the postseason.
They might have to win it without one of their best players.
Speaking to the media the day after the Eagles' win over the Dallas Cowboys, head coach Doug Pederson said that tight end Zach Ertz needs more tests on a rib injury that caused him to leave the game briefly on Sunday.
Pederson said the team will have more information later in the day on Monday about Ertz's status. According to an NFL Network report Ertz has a fractured rib, but the team has yet to confirm the report.
What those tests determine remains to be seen, but Pederson's answer is an obviously concerning one considering how badly the Eagles need Ertz on offense.
Ertz is not only the Eagles' best skill position player, but he is also the safety net Wentz needs and leans on frequently on big third-down plays. Although backup Dallas Goedert has played well, Ertz going down would force Goedert into the starting role, something he has not had to do since joining the team last season.
In addition, Ertz being out would leave the Eagles would just two tight ends, with Joshua Perkins also serving as one of their top backups at receiver.
The Eagles next play on Sunday against the Giants, and if they lose that game, chances are they won't be going to the postseason, assuming the Dallas Cowboys beat the Washington Redskins.
Whether Ertz plays or not, chances are the Eagles will be making a roster move at tight end to prepare for the chance he isn't on the field in Week 17.
You can reach Eliot Shorr-Parks on Twitter at @EliotShorrParks or email him at esp@94wip.com!
