Eagles Injury Updates: Jakorian Bennett nears return, Nolan Smith still on hold

The Eagles made a few quiet but notable roster adjustments this week as they prepare for their Week 8 matchup against the Giants, including the long-awaited return of cornerback Jakorian Bennett.

Jakorian Bennett’s practice window opens

The Eagles officially opened Bennett’s 21-day practice window, marking his first step toward returning from injured reserve. Philadelphia traded for Bennett at the end of training camp after both Adoree’ Jackson and Kelee Ringo failed to seize the CB2 job.

Bennett has been sidelined since Week 3 with a pectoral injury, but defensive coordinator Vic Fangio sounds ready to get a look at him:

“You can’t practice when you’re on IR, so once we open up his window and get him on the practice field, we’ll see where he’s at,” Fangio said Tuesday. “He’s a guy we’ll take a hard look at.”

With the cornerback spot opposite Quinyon Mitchell still unsettled, Bennett’s timing couldn’t be better.

Nolan Smith remains on IR

On the other hand, EDGE Nolan Smith will stay on injured reserve for at least one more week. The Eagles chose not to open his practice window yet, meaning he’ll miss the Giants game and possibly target a return in Week 9 against Green Bay.

Sua Opeta returns to Eagles

The Eagles also brought back a familiar face, signing offensive guard Sua Opeta to the practice squad. Opeta played in 38 games for Philadelphia between 2019 and 2023 before joining Tampa Bay last offseason, where he tore his ACL and missed the year. He’ll now rejoin the Eagles as a depth option up front.

Brandon Graham’s return on hold — for now

Finally, Brandon Graham’s comeback tour is officially underway. The veteran defensive end, who came out of retirement last week, will have a two-game roster exemption while he works his way back into football shape. He won’t count toward the 53-man roster until he’s activated, which could happen as early as Week 11 vs. Detroit.

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