Training camp injuries always attract attention, especially when they involve one of the most important players on the roster. That's why many Philadelphia Eagles fans took notice of Lane Johnson's extended absences. Everyone's thankful that, despite challenges in his personal life, he's back at workand, for the most part, okay.
Cam Jurgens is also the subject of attention, as he's dealt with injuries for a while, most commonly back issues. Recently, per several sources at Eagles camp,including ESPN's Tim McManus, he exited practice early on consecutive days. While there is no reason to sound alarm bells just yet, Philadelphia's recent decisions suggest the organization is taking a deliberately cautious approach with its Pro Bowl center.
Jurgens
spent time in the medical tent during one practice before heading indoors. The following day, he again left the field with a trainer near the end of the session. By all accounts, he appeared to be moving well, but the Eagles have shown little interest in taking unnecessary risks. That approach makes perfect sense when viewed through a long-term lens.
The Eagles need Cam Jurgens healthy in September
Training camp is important, but not nearly as important as having one of the league's better centers available when the regular season begins. Philadelphia's coaching staff and medical personnel understand that reality. The Eagles don't need Jurgens proving his toughness in August. They need him anchoring the offensive line in Week 1.
There's no need to raise a ton of red flags, at least not now, but it would be erroneous to act as though there are no reasons for concern. Back injuries can be notoriously difficult to gauge. They also tend to linger longer than expected. Eagles fans don't need to look far for a reminder of how unpredictable those situations can become. Former defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan battled back issues that ultimately altered the trajectory of his career.
Every injury is different, of course, but back-related concerns are rarely something teams dismiss casually. The Eagles appear to understand that better than most. Jurgens was named to his second consecutive Pro Bowl last season despite appearing in only 14 games and playing through various ailments. He was productive, but it was also clear he wasn't operating at full strength for portions of the year.
Philadelphia has no reason to put him in a position where a minor issue becomes something more significant. The good news is that the Eagles have enough depth to survive a few missed training camp reps. Players such as Jake Majors and Drew Kendall can absorb valuable practice snaps while Jurgens receives whatever maintenance or treatment is necessary.
The reality remains simple. Philadelphia is a significantly better football team when Cam Jurgens is healthy. That's why the Eagles appear willing to sacrifice a few August reps today to ensure their star center is available when the games begin to count.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles are taking a cautious approach with Cam Jurgens at training camp
