While the Eagles may be without a young star on defense for Monday night's game, it looks likely that they will be welcoming back a trusted veteran.

Safety Nate Allen injured his left hamstring in practice Thursday and did not practice Friday, casting doubt on his status for Monday night. Allen had injured his right hamstring in the Week 6 game against the Lions. If Allen can't go, he will be replaced by David Sims. Acquired in a trade with the Browns on roster cutdown day in August, Sims has primarily been a special teams player in Philadelphia. He is sixth on the team with 44 special teams production points.

"I'm just hungry," Sims said about the opportunity. "I'm just ready to get in there and help the team any way possible."

Defensive tackle Mike Patterson reiterated Friday that he plans to make his season debut Monday night. Patterson has been out all season as he recovers from offseason brain surgery. Patterson is currently on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury list, meaning a player must be released to make room for Patterson on the 53-man roster.

Fellow defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins said he plans to play Monday after not practicing Thursday with a knee injury. Jenkins was a full participant during Friday's practice.

On offense, right guard Danny Watkins has not practiced this week as he recovers from an ankle injury. That means rookie Dennis Kelly is likely to make his second start at guard against the Saints. Head coach Andy Reid said Thursday that wide receiver Mardy Gilyard is out for Monday's game with a hamstring injury.

The other players on the Eagles' injury report – cornerback Brandon Boykin (toe), defensive end Phillip Hunt (calf) and linebacker Mychal Kendricks (trap) – were full participants in practice Friday and are expected to play.

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