Vic Fangio needed only one word to clarify the urgency surrounding Jonathan Greenard’s recovery.
Asked Wednesday whether he is concerned that Greenard could miss the beginning of the regular season, the Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator answered, “Yes.” Greenard has not practiced during training camp after suffering a pectoral strain while lifting before camp. He remains on the physically unable to perform list, leaving Philadelphia without its major offseason addition as the Sept. 13 opener against Washington approaches.
The Eagles have approximately 25 days to get Greenard cleared, conditioned and prepared for a role that includes responsibilities he did not regularly handle with Minnesota. Fangio explained that Greenard would be asked
to drop into coverage and execute different assignments within Philadelphia’s scheme. Meeting-room work can help, but it cannot replace live repetitions.
Greenard’s absence does not leave the Eagles without options. Jalyx Hunt has enjoyed a productive summer, while Nolan Smith Jr., A.J. Epenesa and Arnold Ebiketie give Fangio experienced rotational choices. Those players can protect Philadelphia from forcing Greenard back before he is ready, but none eliminates the importance of integrating the veteran.
The calendar also creates a roster decision. If Greenard remains on the PUP list when Philadelphia sets its initial roster, he would be required to miss at least the first four regular-season games. Fangio’s answer did not establish a timetable or guarantee Greenard will miss Week 1. It did confirm that the Eagles can no longer treat his absence as an early-camp inconvenience.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles' DC Vic Fangio is concerned Jonathan Greenard could miss Week 1
