Dallas Goedert Returns from Injury to Boost Eagles Against Cowboys
Philadelphia Eagles fans have something to cheer about as tight end Dallas Goedert returns to the gridiron just in time for a critical matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. Goedert, who has been sidelined due to a nagging hamstring injury, is set to rejoin an already potent Eagles offense that ranks third in the NFL in points scored per game, averaging 31.0 points, and fifth in yards per game at 394.3.
Goedert’s recovery appears to be right on track as he resumed full participation in Wednesday's practice, indicating his readiness for Sunday’s showdown. The Eagles' decision not to place Goedert on injured reserve reflects their confidence in his ability to bounce back swiftly. The finesse and precision that Goedert brings were evident in the early part of the season, as he recorded 24 receptions for 301 yards in just the first five games before the injury struck.
Ahead of his return, Goedert candidly expressed, "This was like the latest I wanted to be back. Obviously, I would've loved to be back last week in the Kelly Greens and suit up for that." His eagerness to return to the field was palpable. Goedert further added, “This was the game we knew for sure that I would be good, and we're tracking in the right direction.” These statements underscore his determination to rejoin his teammates and contribute to their ongoing success.
The loss of Goedert was certainly felt. However, Grant Calcaterra, serving as the backup tight end during Goedert's absence, rose to the occasion admirably, hauling in 13 catches for 160 yards. Goedert praised Calcaterra’s performance, acknowledging, "He definitely took advantage of his opportunity. And I'm hoping now with what he did, the 12 personnel with me and him, our package can grow, and we can get a little more pass game out of it while continuing the run game that we've had in the past. He played really well. I'm happy for him because he showed a lot of people what he can do." This optimism highlights the potential for an even more dynamic offensive strategy with both tight ends on the field.
Notably, Goedert’s absence has aligned with the limited time that the Eagles' key offensive personnel have shared on the field. Star players such as Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Goedert have only played together for five quarters this season, hinting at untapped potential for the team as the season progresses. Brown himself had a brief stint on the injured list with a hamstring issue earlier in the season, missing three crucial games.
The emotional and mental resilience shown by Goedert during his recuperation is commendable. "It's always frustrating, but you just gotta take what comes to you," he reflected on dealing with the injury. Maintaining a positive attitude, he emphasized the importance of staying in shape and ready to return at full capacity, saying, “You just gotta make sure you keep a positive attitude, and when you get back that you're in the best shape that you can be in."
For the Eagles, the return of Dallas Goedert couldn’t be more timely. As they prepare to lock horns with the Dallas Cowboys, his presence on the field is anticipated to bolster the Eagles’ already formidable offense. The rejuvenation of the team dynamic is something Goedert himself is excited about. He admitted, “You feel like you're an important piece, and when you go down, nothing stops. Everything's gotta keep moving." His desire to reconnect with his teammates and contribute to their success remains a key motivator.
The upcoming game against the Cowboys offers Goedert the stage to reaffirm his integral role in the Eagles’ offensive lineup. With his return, the team’s ability to execute both passing and running plays should see an upswing, potentially redefining their performance metrics for the remainder of the season. As fans await to see the organization return to full strength, there is mounting anticipation for the kind of excitement and success that Philadelphia Eagles football promises.