The Philadelphia Eagles have navigated training camp, the preseason, and the first two weeks of the regular season without Jonathan Greenard on the field. It's easy to wonder what he'd add to Vic Fangio's defense, but before we get there, we must answer another question. How close is the veteran defender to returning?
When asked, the Eagles coaches seemingly make similar comments. Philadelphia will be without him for a while, but he appears to be moving in the right direction. Greenard has remained a limited participant in practice, and he's been ruled out of the first two games. While the Eagles have yet to make any definitive announcements regarding his status for Week 3, head coach Nick Sirianni sounded optimistic when discussing the pass
rusher's progress on Saturday.
Speaking with reporters ahead of Monday night's matchup against the Chicago Bears, Sirianni was asked whether Greenard had done more this week than he had in previous weeks. The Eagles' head coach stopped short of revealing any plans, but his answer painted a positive picture.
"He's had a good week. He's had a good week. It's exciting to have him out there. We'll see where we are at the end of today. Like I said, today's a very important part of the process, but I feel like he's had a good week."
That alone would have been encouraging, but Sirianni went on to discuss the impact Greenard has made despite being unable to suit up for games. He explained that one of the things he's noticed most during Greenard's absence is the energy and leadership he brings to the sideline.
Sirianni also praised the work Greenard has put in behind the scenes as he works toward a return. Jonathan Greenard's leadership has stood out.
"It brings good energy. I've really enjoyed, I mean, I've hated that he hasn't been able to go in for him and for our team, but I've really enjoyed being around him on the sideline and what he's like on a game day. He's got a lot of knowledge, and he's really good with his teammates, and that's been very noticeable to me. I'm excited when it's the time to get him back out there. He's worked his butt off to be able to get back out there as soon as possible. I'm excited to have that leadership that I've seen him show when not playing."
Whether Greenard ultimately returns against the Chicago Bears or not, Sirianni's comments offered perhaps the clearest indication yet that the veteran edge rusher is trending in the right direction. The Eagles coach repeatedly referenced the quality of Greenard's week and the work he has put in behind the scenes, which are often the types of comments coaches make when a player is nearing the final stages of a return.
What stood out most, however, was that Sirianni spent as much time discussing Greenard's leadership as he did his health. The Eagles brought Greenard to Philadelphia to help affect games on Sundays, but Sirianni's answer suggests he's already finding ways to influence the team. When Greenard is finally cleared to take the field, the Eagles won't simply be adding another pass rusher to the rotation. They'll be welcoming back a player who has already earned the respect of his coaches and teammates while waiting for his opportunity to contribute.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Nick Sirianni says Jonathan Greenard had a good week of practice
