Dallas Goedert put an exclamation point on the Philadelphia Eagles’ Wild Card Round victory over the Green Bay Packers. A triple stiff-arm leading to a 24-yard touchdown was the highlight of the game for a tight end who has come into his own as a receiving threat.
But his brand of movement and explosiveness are now in question for the Divisional Round against the Los Angeles Rams. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Did Dallas Goedert Miss Practice?
Coming off a comfortable 22-10 victory, the Philadelphia Eagles were in a joyous space. They had held the explosive Packers and Matt LaFleur to just 10 points, forced three interceptions on Jordan Love and all in all had a dominant showing.
But over the week, there has been some cause for concern among the Philadelphia fanbase. Putting aside the book controversy, AJ Brown is questionable for the Divisional Round due to a lingering knee injury.
But now, Goedert has turned up questionable as well, after missing Thursday’s practice entirely. The reasoning has been given as an illness, with all the other starters performing in some capacity.
Will Goedert Suit Up Against the Rams?
Given that it is just an illness, it is tough to imagine a scenario where Goedert doesn’t return for the game, especially with the magnitude. He was available on Wednesday, so it might be worth monitoring his status for practice on Friday.
Unless the situation turns out to be far more grievous than anticipated, expect the TE to be back in the lineup come Saturday.
Goedert’s Impact on the Eagles
The Eagles’ offense primarily functions on two things. The moonball to superstar receivers AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith, and the backbreaking ground game led by Saquon Barkley and quarterback Jalen Hurts.
However, what Dallas Goedert offers Philadelphia is something entirely unique. An easy target for converting on first-downs, his size allows him to function as an effective runner after the catch as well.
Take the Packers game for example, where a relatively simple play to move the changes turned into the highlight of the entire affair as Goedert broke through cornerback Carrington Valentine, stiff-arming his thrice en route to an explosive touchdown.
DALLAS GOEDERT ANGRY RUN 😡
📺: #GBvsPHI on FOX
📱: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/rxRDVME91z— NFL (@NFL) January 12, 2025
Goedert has been phenomenal in these situations all year round. The lifelong Eagle has 496 yards on the season in just 10 games, adding two touchdowns to his tally as well.
While his overall numbers might be down from a year-to-year standpoint, his 11.8 yards per reception are the third-highest mark of his career, signalling that the overall lack of numbers is a result of missing time rather than dip in quality.