The stage is set for a thrilling NFC Wild Card playoff clash as the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to battle the San Francisco 49ers. This high-stakes postseason matchup has fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly analysing team sheets to see which stars will take the field. With significant injuries impacting both squads, the availability of key players could be the deciding factor in this win-or-go-home contest.
Eagles and 49ers Announce Inactive Players List
The Philadelphia Eagles have confirmed several players who will not suit up for today's critical game. The most notable absence is star right tackle Lane Johnson, sidelined with a foot injury. His absence creates a major challenge for the Eagles' offensive line against a formidable 49ers defensive front.
The full list of Eagles inactives includes:
- Lane Johnson (RT) – Foot injury
- Brett Toth (OL) – Concussion
- Sam Howell (QB – emergency QB)
- A.J. Dillon (RB)
- Ty Robinson (DL)
- Jakorian Bennett (CB)
- Joshua Uche (OLB)
To bolster their roster depth, the Eagles have elevated Charley Hughlett and Andre' Sam from the practice squad.
On the other side, the San Francisco 49ers will also be missing crucial talent. The biggest blow is the continued absence of defensive leader Fred Warner, who remains on injured reserve. The 49ers' inactive list for the Wild Card game is:
- Fred Warner (LB) – On injured reserve
- Ricky Pearsall (WR) – Injury
- Dee Winters (LB)
- Luke Gifford (LB)
- Jordan Watkins (WR)
- Chase Lucas (CB)
Star Power: Active Players to Watch in the Playoff Duel
Despite the absences, plenty of firepower will be on display. For the Philadelphia Eagles, all eyes will be on franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts, the offensive leader tasked with guiding his team to victory. He will rely on top receiving target A.J. Brown and deep-threat playmaker DeVonta Smith. The ground game will be powered by workhorse running back Saquon Barkley, while tight end Dallas Goedert remains a key red-zone option.
Defensively, the Eagles will look to players like safety Marcus Epps, linebacker Nakobe Dean—who returns after practicing this week—and defensive linchpin Jalen Carter. The pass rush will be led by Jaelan Phillips and Azeez Ojulari.
The San Francisco 49ers counter with their own arsenal of stars. Quarterback Brock Purdy will lead the offense, handing off to the dynamic Christian McCaffrey, the focal point of their attack. Playmaking wide receiver Deebo Samuel and tight end George Kittle provide Purdy with elite targets. In a significant boost, left tackle Trent Williams is confirmed active. On defense, safety Jimmie Ward will anchor the secondary, while a linebacker group of Eric Kendricks, Curtis Robinson, Jalen Graham, and Garret Wallow steps up to fill the void left by injured teammates.
Injury Impact and Playoff Implications
The injury report profoundly shapes this matchup. The Eagles must protect Jalen Hurts without their premier right tackle, Lane Johnson. For the 49ers, missing linebacker Fred Warner removes a defensive captain and play-caller, while receiver Ricky Pearsall's absence thins their receiving corps behind Deebo Samuel.
This NFC Wild Card game will ultimately test the depth and resilience of both franchises. With key inactives forcing adjustments, the performance of role players and returning stars will be magnified under the playoff spotlight. Fans can expect a fiercely competitive battle as the Eagles and 49ers fight for the right to advance to the next round of the NFL playoffs.
