Eagles Release Andy Dalton, Rule Out Saquon Barkley and Four Others for Sunday’s Jaguars Game in London

The Philadelphia Eagles released veteran backup quarterback Andy Dalton on Friday and ruled out five players, including star running back Saquon Barkley, for Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London, according to Reuters.

Barkley is sidelined with a hamstring injury. The team also ruled out safety Marcus Epps, offensive lineman Drew Kendall, and wide receivers DeVonta Smith and Marquise Brown, none of whom practiced during the week, according to Reuters. Linebacker Jonathan Greenard, who also missed practice, was listed as questionable.

Thin backfield, new backup plan

Philadelphia’s running back depth has thinned quickly. According to Reuters, Barkley and Tank Bigsby were both hurt in last Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Rams, and Bigsby has been placed on injured reserve with a core injury that requires surgery. Will Shipley is expected to lead the backfield against Jacksonville, with Dameon Pierce elevated to the active roster earlier in the week. The Eagles also signed center Jake Majors and running back Carson Steele from the practice squad on Friday, according to Reuters.

At quarterback, starter Jalen Hurts appeared on the practice report for the first time this season with a calf issue but practiced fully and carries no game status, according to Reuters. Dalton’s departure leaves Tanner McKee as the primary backup, with rookie Cole Payton also on the roster. The Cincinnati Enquirer reported that Dalton, who turns 39 later this month, appeared in one game for Philadelphia this season, throwing a single pass that was intercepted. Reuters reported that ESPN has identified Dalton as a possible candidate to return on the practice squad.

The Eagles are 2-2 heading into the London game. Jacksonville is 3-1, according to Reuters.

Reporting based on coverage by Reuters and the Cincinnati Enquirer.