Update Provided On Carson Wentz, Nick Foles Season Opener Status
PHILADELPHIA, PA — With Week 1 rapidly approaching, Coach Doug Pederson said on Tuesday that he would know by Friday whether Carson Wentz or Nick Foles would start the season opener. However, he might not make that decision public until shortly before game time.
Pederson made the announcement during a Tuesday press conference that followed several days of rumors regarding the team's plans. It was Pederson's first significant comment on the situation since a snappy press conference on Sunday. Reporters asked him when Wentz, 25, would be cleared for contact.
"When they clear him (Wentz), he'll be cleared," he said.
The Eagles open up the season against the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday, Sept. 6. If they're without Wentz, whose MVP-caliber 2017 season was cut short due to an ACL injury, it's not as though the defending champs are in dire straits. Super Bowl MVP Foles, who has split snaps with Wentz pretty evenly thus far in practice, would get the nod.
Foles also faced health concerns earlier this preseason, and had to be removed early from a game against the Patriots with a shoulder injury.
Pederson has previously noted he'd like to know the Week 1 starter at least a week in advance. He's also noted that Wentz's health is paramount, and given their more than capable backup, Wentz would seem unlikely to start unless the team is sure he's completely healthy.
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