Eagles’ Zack Baun and DeVonta Smith Sidelined at Practice

Philadelphia linebacker Zack Baun and wide receiver DeVonta Smith did not participate in Wednesday’s practice as the Eagles prepare for a Week 5 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams.

What happened

Baun is working through concussion protocol after playing nearly the entire defensive snap count in Monday night’s game against the Chicago Bears. With only a short turnaround before facing the Rams, he has less time to gain clearance. Smith was held out because of a hamstring problem.

The absences didn’t stop there. Wide receiver Hollywood Brown, tight end Dallas Goedert, offensive tackle Fred Johnson, and running back Will Shipley also missed practice. Brown, Johnson, and Goedert were inactive for the Bears game as well.

Several teammates were able to do limited work: linebacker Jihaad Campbell, defensive tackle Jordan Davis, and defensive tackle Moro Ojomo. Meanwhile, running back Tank Bigsby, defensive tackle Jalen Carter, wide receiver Darius Cooper, linebacker Jonathan Greenard, and defensive tackle Byron Young were all full participants.

Context

Baun has been a key piece for Philadelphia’s defense, logging 66 of 72 snaps on Monday. If he cannot clear protocol, his absence would create a significant hole at linebacker. Smith’s hamstring issue comes at a time when the Eagles are already thin at receiver, with Brown and Cooper working back from their own ailments.

What’s next

The Eagles have a shortened week to prepare for the Rams. Updates on Baun’s concussion protocol progress and Smith’s hamstring status will likely come before Sunday’s game.