News

Though the Eagles are returning from the bye week mostly healthy, they were without right guard Danny Watkins at practice Thursday. He was replaced in practice by rookie Dennis Kelly. While he has been working primarily at right tackle, Kelly did see significant playing time at right guard against the Steelers in the preseason.

When Kelly arrived at work Thursday, he was told to prepare for reps at right guard. He is approaching this week like he’s the starter, even if Watkins will be able to play Sunday.

"Mentally, you try to prepare yourself to play, obviously," Kelly said after practice Thursday. "Then come Sunday if there’s times when you don’t get in, that can be a little draining. You’re excited, you’re pumped up and then you’re just there waiting in case something bad happens. But it does keep practices fun. Make sure you’re doing something productive, so I have no problems with it."

Watkins was a full participant in Wednesday's practice despite the ankle injury, so we will have to wait and see if he takes part in Friday's workout.

Thursday’s injury report is rounded out by safeties Nate Allen (hamstring), Colt Anderson (knee) and Kurt Coleman (shoulder), long snapper Jon Dorenbos (ankle), defensive end Phillip Hunt (calf) and defensive tackle Cedric Thornton (hand). The aforementioned players were all full participants. Thornton is the only player who was added to the injury report on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta injury report also remained largely unchanged. Slot receiver Harry Douglas did not practice as he recovers from an ankle injury. Reserve running back Antone Smith, who did not practice Wednesday, participated in a limited capacity on Thursday. Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux (groin), tight end Michael Palmer (shoulder) and guard Garrett Reynolds (back) were also limited.

Make sure to follow us on Twitter @EaglesInsider