Dallas Goedert Gears Up for Return Against Cowboys
As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to face their division rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, they eagerly anticipate the return of one of their key offensive weapons, tight end Dallas Goedert. Goedert has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, but a dedicated rehabilitation effort sees him returning to the lineup without ever being placed on injured reserve—a testament to the team's confidence in his swift recovery.
Goedert fully participated in Wednesday's practice, signaling he is nearly ready to rejoin his teammates on the field. "This was like the latest I wanted to be back," Goedert revealed. "Obviously, I would've loved to be back last week in the Kelly Greens and suit up for that. This was the game we knew for sure that I would be good, and we're tracking in the right direction."
Prior to his injury, Goedert had been a reliable target for quarterback Jalen Hurts, amassing 24 catches for 301 yards in the team's first five games. His absence saw backup tight end Grant Calcaterra stepping up admirably, recording 13 catches for 160 yards. Goedert's return promises to reinvigorate the Eagles’ passing game, which is already performing at an impressive level. The team ranks third in the NFL in points scored per game at 31.0, and fifth in yards per game, averaging 394.3.
"You feel like you're an important piece, and when you go down, nothing stops. Everything's gotta keep moving," Goedert stated, reflecting on his time away from the action. The sidelined tight end expressed his eagerness to reunite with his teammates and contribute to the team's success. With the likes of A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Saquon Barkley, the Eagles' offense is a formidable force when fully operational, though injuries have limited their time together to just five quarters this season.
Goedert's attitude during his recovery has been noted as exemplary. He has focused on maintaining a positive mindset and ensuring he remains in peak physical condition. "It's always frustrating, but you just gotta take what comes to you. I never want to be injured, but you just gotta make sure you keep a positive attitude, and when you get back that you're in the best shape that you can be in," he explained, emphasizing his disciplined approach.
Discussing the rise of Calcaterra, Goedert was full of praise for his teammate, acknowledging the strength the two can bring to the Eagles' offensive schemes. "He definitely took advantage of his opportunity. And I'm hoping now with what he did, the 12 personnel with me and him, our package can grow, and we can get a little more pass game out of it while continuing the run game that we've had in the past. He played really well. I'm happy for him because he showed a lot of people what he can do," said Goedert.
With a crucial game against the Cowboys looming, the Eagles are hopeful that Goedert's return can offer an additional edge. Victory against their Dallas rivals could solidify the Eagles' position as one of the premier teams in the NFL this season. Goedert's excitement to rejoin the field is palpable, although tempered by past experiences. "You've been paying attention in meetings, so you know the little nuances of things that we've changed over the few weeks. For me, it's just looking forward to the day that I get back because that keeps me motivated," he reflected on the anticipation of returning.
The Philadelphia Eagles, bolstered by their potent offense and a motivated Dallas Goedert, will certainly be aiming to deliver a statement win over the Cowboys, asserting their strength in the league's upper echelons. With key players returning and a desire to continue their offensive success, fans can expect an exhilarating contest at the heart of the NFC East rivalry.