The Philadelphia Eagles are just a few hours away from kicking off their season against the Green Bay Packers in Sao Paolo, Brazil.
Despite the excitement that can come from a new season, the Eagles are walking into Friday's contest banged up. Starting cornerback Isaiah Rodgers is dealing with a hand injury, and linebacker Devin White has an ankle problem.
It's not completely uncommon for injuries to hit a team before games are even played, but the two main injuries Philadelphia is dealing with could actually be a blessing in disguise.
The reason? It puts two of the Eagles' youngest defensive stars on the field.
In the case of Rodgers, his absence will set the stage for 22nd overall pick Quinyon Mitchell to receive plenty of starting snaps against Jordan Love and the Packers offense.
At linebacker, due to White's injury, Nakobe Dean will be the starter after earning the role late in camp through strong performances in the preseason and beyond.
To have two young players on the Eagles roster get plenty of playtime will require most fans and analysts to be patient with the organization as they try and figure out how to best succeed with new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio running the show.
While Rodgers and White may be seen as competent starters, the clearer picture is that the Eagles may be able to put some trust in their younger roster in 2024.
