The Philadelphia Eagles are running high on energy and winning this season. But while looking to seal the playoff spot, they faced a major offensive challenge. And they were quick to address it before the week 14 matchup against the Panthers.

The team is shaking things up as tight end Dallas Goedert has to be pushed to the injured reserve. And it’s all about keeping their star QB Jalen Hurts well-equipped. On Saturday, the Eagles announced the signing of tight end EJ Jenkins to their active roster. The 2-year deal is worth $1.7 million. Jenkins has been drawing attention for his impressive 6-foot-6 frame and athleticism. Now, he joins the lineup as a much-needed boost following the Goedert setback. However, Dallas Goedert’s absence is no small blow.

The 7-year veteran has been a reliable weapon for the Eagles. Well, he amassed 441 yards and two touchdowns in nine games this season. However, injuries are nothing new for the Eagles. From Devin White to A.J. Brown to Dallas Goedert, it has been a long list. This is also not the first game out for Dallas this season. He was out for 2 games in October and 1 in November, owing to issues with the hamstring prior to this. This time, however, the issue is with his knee. Truth be told, the Eagles also showed resilience in adjusting their game plans.

Enter EJ Jenkins, a player turning heads since training camp with his size and versatility. Originally undrafted, Jenkins bounced between practice squads before landing in Philadelphia. His college career at Georgia Tech showcased his knack for big plays, where he amassed 1,264 yards and 18 touchdowns. With Goedert sidelined, Jenkins steps in as the third tight end behind Grant Calcaterra and C.J. Uzomah. He offers depth and potential mismatches for opposing defenses.

Speaking of the contract, Jenkins’ contract, which includes $20,000 guaranteed, might just seem modest from the outset. Especially compared to star players. But it signifies a calculated move by the Eagles to maintain offensive stability. As Philadelphia pushes for the playoff seat, they’ll need every option available to keep Hurts firing on all cylinders.

Jalen Hurts’ offensive arsenal evolves amid challenges

Jalen Hurts’s evolution as a gun QB has been the cornerstone of Philadelphia’s success. However, the start of the season wasn’t so merry for Hurts. Following early season struggles, Hurts has now finally silenced critics. He boasts just 1 interception in his last 9 games. Take a bow, MAN! His efficiency? Averaging 9.1 yards per pass attempt, he puts himself among the league’s elite. And it has become crucial for the Eagles to surround him with reliable targets.

Losing Goedert might have been a block on the road, but the Eagles’ proactive approach ensures Hurts’s options remain plentiful. Making things better for the team from Philadelphia, wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are pretty much thriving. With Brown on track for another 1,000-yard season. Now the addition of Jenkins, paired with their strong ground game led by D’Andre Swift, reinforces an offense designed to adapt. And outperform the opponents under pressure.

Head coach Nick Sirianni was all praises for Hurts in a recent press conference. “There are things not obvious to everyone—checking into the right play, throwing it away, scrambling at the right time. All of it helps us win,” Sirianni stated. For the Eagles, this response is all about keeping Hurts and the team confident. And formidable.

Jenkins may not fill Goedert’s shoes immediately. But his presence adds a new layer to an already dynamic roster. At the same time, Hurts’s leadership and adaptability would remain central as Philadelphia navigates the challenges ahead.