Who Will Replace A.J. Brown in the Eagles’ Lineup After His Week 8 Injury?

A.J. Brown has officially been ruled out of the Philadelphia Eagles’ Week 8 matchup against the New York Giants due to a hamstring injury. The setback occurred during the team’s Week 7 win over the Minnesota Vikings, and it has left quarterback Jalen Hurts facing a major adjustment in the passing game. With Brown sidelined, the Eagles’ wide receiver lineup will undergo crucial changes heading into Sunday’s NFC East showdown.

The team confirmed Brown’s injury status earlier this week, stating that he would not travel with the squad. This absence could heavily impact the Eagles’ offensive rhythm, as Brown has been one of Hurts’ most productive and reliable targets all season. The coaching staff now faces the challenge of reshuffling their receiving corps to keep their offense balanced against a divisional rival.

Eagles WR Depth Faces Realignment Without A.J. Brown

With A.J. Brown unavailable, DeVonta Smith steps into the primary wide receiver role. Smith, who delivered a standout performance last week with nine receptions for 183 yards and a touchdown, will shoulder the bulk of the passing workload. Jahan Dotson is expected to start opposite him, filling Brown’s outside receiver position. However, Dotson’s production this season has been limited, with only seven receptions for 111 yards, which raises questions about depth and consistency in the Eagles’ air attack.

The team will likely rotate Quez Watkins and Olamide Zaccheaus into the slot to provide speed and agility in short-yardage situations. Both receivers offer versatility but have yet to show the explosiveness that Brown brings to the offense. To bolster depth, rookie Darius Cooper, recently activated from injured reserve, may make his return if medically cleared. The undrafted receiver from Tarleton State missed four games with a shoulder injury but has been active in practice this week and remains listed as questionable.

Beyond the wideouts, tight end Dallas Goedert and running back Saquon Barkley will see expanded receiving roles. Goedert has been consistent over the middle, while Barkley provides Hurts with a reliable check-down option. Together, they will be key in easing the loss of Brown’s playmaking ability.

Offensive Adjustments and Impact Ahead of Giants Clash

Philadelphia’s offensive coordinator is expected to design a more balanced game plan, emphasizing short passes and quick routes to compensate for the loss of Brown’s deep-threat presence. Hurts may rely more on rhythm-based passing, utilizing Smith and Goedert to maintain offensive tempo.

The Eagles’ Week 7 performance against the Vikings showed their passing game potential, with Hurts throwing for 326 yards and three touchdowns. Without Brown, duplicating that level of success will depend on how well the next receivers step up and how the offensive line holds against the Giants’ defensive front. This game could define how resilient Philadelphia’s passing unit is without one of its stars.

As the Eagles prepare for Sunday’s critical matchup, all eyes will be on DeVonta Smith and Jahan Dotson to fill the void left by A.J. Brown. With playoff implications already in sight, the team’s ability to adapt could determine whether they maintain control of the NFC East race.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who will replace A.J. Brown in the Eagles’ lineup?

DeVonta Smith will take over as the primary receiver, with Jahan Dotson moving into the starting lineup and rookie Darius Cooper potentially returning from injury.

Q2: What is A.J. Brown’s injury?

Brown sustained a hamstring injury during the Eagles’ Week 7 win over the Minnesota Vikings. He has been ruled out for Week 8 against the Giants.

Q3: Will rookie Darius Cooper play in Week 8?

Cooper has been activated from injured reserve but remains questionable. His availability will depend on final medical clearance before kickoff.

Q4: How will Jalen Hurts adjust without A.J. Brown?

Hurts is expected to rely more on short and intermediate passes to DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert, and Saquon Barkley.

Q5: When is the Eagles vs. Giants game?

The Eagles host the New York Giants at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.