By Shane Murphy
The Eagles listed nickel cornerback Avonte Maddox as a limited participant on Wednesday and are “hopeful” Maddox can return for Sunday’s NFC Championship Game.
Just two players were on the Eagles’ injury report on Wednesday. Maddox (toe) and Lane Johnson (groin) were both limited.
Maddox hasn’t played since Christmas Eve, when he suffered a significant toe injury against the Cowboys. Putting Maddox on IR for the second time this year would have ended his season, so he’s been taking up a roster spot this whole time.
But the chance to get Maddox back was obviously worth it. Because while he’s dealt with injuries this season, Maddox has been great when he’s on the field.
Earlier in the season when Maddox was out, the Eagles replaced him with backup nickel corner Josiah Scott. But in the last couple of games, including the playoff win over the Giants, the Eagles have used C.J. Gardner-Johnson as their slot corner. CJGJ has played safety in base and slot corner in the nickel package. When Gardner-Johnson has played nickel, rookie Reed Blankenship has been the guy replacing him at safety.
Having Maddox back for the NFC Championship Game would allow the Eagles to keep Gardner-Johnson at one spot. And it would increase the overall level of play in the secondary.
