ATLANTA, GEORGIA – SEPTEMBER 15: Quarterback Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks to pass against the defense of the Atlanta Falcons during the game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 15, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
If the Eagles want to be legitimate Super Bowl contenders they need Carson Wentz to have a big season. He can’t do that from the sidelines.
The biggest question the Eagles have to answer this season is whether or not they can count on Carson Wentz to stay healthy for a full 16-game season. If Sunday Night’s game against the Falcons is any indication, Philadelphia is making a very dangerous bet on their franchise quarterback.
Wentz exited the game against Atlanta after suffering a hit that team medical officials were concerned might have resulted in a concussion. Wentz did come back into the game just before halftime after exiting the Eagles’ medical tent.
It’s worth noting that Wentz had also taken a shot to his ribs that seemed to cause him serious discomfort before going to the sidelines. Add all of this up and it could be very bad news for the Eagles. They cannot afford for Wentz to miss significant time this year. Nick Foles is no longer there to serve as his backup. If Wentz is forced to spend time on the bench, it means that Philadelphia will rely on Josh McCown to keep their offense on track.
For the moment, it appears that Doug Pederson and company have dodged a very serious bullet. The fact that Wentz returned to the game just before halftime makes it very likely he will come out and play the third quarter.
It’s still a situation fans need to monitor closely in the second half. One more big shot to Wentz could end his night and potentially risk him missing multiple games this season. That could torpedo Philadelphia’s hopes of getting back to the Super Bowl.