The Philadelphia Eagles will enter their Week 4 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams without three starters after ruling out wide receiver DeVonta Smith, linebacker Zack Baun, and safety Marcus Epps.
Smith will miss the game with a hamstring injury after missing practice all week. His absence removes Philadelphia’s most productive receiver from a passing attack that already needs to become more consistent. Smith caught five passes for 83 yards in Monday night’s 27-7 loss to the Chicago Bears and has remained Jalen Hurts’ most dependable option through the opening three games.
Dontayvion Wicks and rookie Makai Lemon should receive expanded roles, with Darius Cooper and Elijah Moore potentially seeing additional opportunities. The Eagles could also
lean more heavily on Saquon Barkley and their tight ends to compensate for Smith’s absence.
Friday's Injury Report#LARvsPHI pic.twitter.com/DrT0NwNGg8
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) October 2, 2026
Baun remains in the concussion protocol and did not practice this week. His absence creates another significant challenge against a Rams offense expected to welcome Puka Nacua back alongside Matthew Stafford, Davante Adams, and Kyren Williams. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is the logical candidate to start alongside Jihaad Campbell. Trotter has made two previous starts, but both came in season finales with limited stakes. Sunday would represent his first extended opportunity in a meaningful regular-season game.
Epps will sit because of a groin injury after being listed as limited earlier in the week. His absence could lead Philadelphia to expand the roles of Michael Carter II and Drew Mukuba while continuing to adjust its safety rotation.
The Rams have substantial injury problems of their own. Aaron Donald, cornerback Jaylen Watson and tight end Terrance Ferguson have been ruled out. Those absences give Philadelphia some matchup relief, but losing Smith, Baun and Epps leaves the Eagles without important players at all three levels of the roster.
Philadelphia’s depth will be tested during a short week against one of the NFL’s most dangerous passing attacks. The Eagles must now replace their leading receiver, defensive communicator, and starting safety while attempting to rebound from their first loss.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles will be without three starters for Week 4 matchup against Rams
