The Eagles might be without last year's starting defensive tackle for longer than expected.
Back in May, DT Tim Jernigansuffered a herniated disk while doing workouts, and had subsequent surgery for the injury. The Eagles brain trust haven't really talked about Jernigan since initially announcing his injury, other than placing him on the Physically Unable to Perform list to start the season.
At his press conference today, Head Coach Doug Pederson was asked to give an update on Jernigan's status and if he is close to returning once he is eligible after Week 6. Pederson's response wasn't a positive one.
Judging from that response, it wouldn't be a surprise if Jernigan ends up missing the entire 2018 season. Because of this injury, Jernigan's time with the Eagles might be at an end.
After his injury, General Manager Howie Roseman negotiated a re-structure of Jernigan's contract, making him ineligible to receive his guaranteed money for next season. Since no money is guaranteed in the future for Jernigan, the Eagles could release him at any time now with virtually no dead money or repercussions.
In the wake of Jernigan's recovery, Haloti Ngata has stepped in and filled the void at defensive tackle nicely. The Eagles defensive line has been able to survive without Jernigan being in the lineup. The Eagles secondary however is a whole other story.
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