Eagles guard Landon Dickerson under the microscope as Week 7 looms

The Philadelphia Eagles could face a critical test in their offensive line depth this Sunday as Pro Bowl guard Landon Dickerson continues to recover from a nagging ankle injury that has limited him in recent practices.

While the team remains cautiously optimistic, sources close to the Eagles’ training staff have revealed that Dickerson’s mobility remains a concern — casting doubt over his availability for the high-stakes Week 7 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

The 25-year-old guard, known for his toughness and consistency, was spotted during Thursday’s closed practice session doing light drills but avoiding full-contact reps. According to one internal report, the medical team is “closely monitoring” his lateral movement, an essential factor in determining whether he will be cleared for game action.

“He’s fighting hard to get back,” says coach Sirianni

Head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the situation in his Thursday press conference, acknowledging that Dickerson’s recovery remains “day to day.”

“Landon’s one of the toughest guys on this roster,” Sirianni said. “He’s fighting hard to get back. We’re not rushing him — but if he says he can go, we’ll trust him.”

Sirianni’s comments echo a sentiment felt throughout the locker room — respect for Dickerson’s grit and leadership. Since joining the team, the Alabama alum has earned a reputation for playing through pain and setting the tone in the trenches.

However, the Eagles’ coaching staff faces a dilemma: balancing the urgency of securing another win against the risk of aggravating a lingering injury.

 Inside the training room — what we know so far

According to team sources, Dickerson first tweaked his ankle in Week 5 but attempted to play through discomfort in Week 6 before being forced out of several key drives. Following that game, he underwent a round of imaging and physical therapy.

The results reportedly showed no structural damage — a major relief for the team — but there was still noticeable swelling that limited his push-off strength.

On Wednesday, Dickerson was seen in a walking boot as a precautionary measure. By Thursday, the boot was gone, and he appeared more mobile. Yet, insiders say the final decision on his availability will depend on how his ankle responds to Friday’s final practice.

A source close to the situation described his condition as “improving, but not at full game speed yet.”

What’s at stake if Dickerson sits out

If Dickerson can’t go, the Eagles will have to adjust their offensive line — a critical unit that has long been the foundation of their success. Backup guard Sua Opeta would likely step in, while Cam Jurgens and Jason Kelce would handle increased communication responsibilities on interior protections.

The chemistry of the offensive line could be tested against Minnesota’s pass rush, led by Danielle Hunter, who currently ranks among the league leaders in sacks. Without Dickerson’s experience and strength, Jalen Hurts may face more interior pressure — forcing the Eagles to rely on quicker passing schemes and rollouts to buy time.

Former Eagles lineman and current analyst Jon Runyan Jr. commented on the potential absence, noting,

“When you lose a player like Dickerson, it’s not just physical — it’s mental. He’s a tone-setter. He calls out blitzes, he anticipates movement. That’s hard to replace.”

Dickerson’s mindset — “I want to be there for my guys”

Despite the uncertainty, Dickerson’s competitive drive remains unshaken. After practice, he briefly spoke with reporters, delivering a statement that resonated deeply with fans:

“I want to be there for my guys. This team means everything to me. I’ll do everything I can to be ready on Sunday.”

That determination has been a defining trait of Dickerson’s career. Since being drafted in 2021, he’s played through knee, toe, and elbow issues, rarely missing a start. His toughness has earned the admiration of teammates like Jason Kelce, who described him as “the anchor of the left side.”

Off the field, Dickerson is known for his quiet leadership — the kind that doesn’t need words to command respect. As one teammate put it, “When Landon walks into the room, you feel like everything’s going to be okay.”

Eagles medical team remains cautious

While fans hope for a miracle recovery, the Eagles’ medical staff is proceeding with caution. Team doctors are reportedly prioritizing long-term stability over short-term gain, aware that the season’s second half — and a potential playoff push — will demand full health from their key linemen.

An unnamed member of the training staff noted,

“We’ve seen players push too hard and re-injure themselves. We’ll only clear him if he’s ready — 100% ready.”

This careful approach reflects Philadelphia’s broader strategy this season: building for sustained dominance rather than gambling on early-season heroics.

 Minnesota’s defense could exploit the weakness

If Dickerson sits out, the Vikings’ defensive coordinator is likely to dial up inside pressure. Minnesota’s front seven has been particularly aggressive on third downs, often disguising blitz packages that attack the A-gaps — exactly where Dickerson’s protection is most valuable.

Expect Hunter and linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. to test the Eagles’ interior line early and often. For Philadelphia, containing that pressure will be the key to keeping Hurts upright and allowing the offense to establish rhythm.

Offensive coordinator Brian Johnson hinted at a potential shift in game plan, emphasizing the importance of tempo and spacing:

“We’ve got options. We trust our depth. The focus is on execution, regardless of who’s on the field.”

The bigger picture — more than just one player

Beyond the immediate matchup, Dickerson’s situation underscores a recurring theme for the Eagles this season — endurance. The team has been tested by injuries across multiple positions, yet their depth and culture continue to keep them competitive.

With Week 7 approaching, every practice rep and medical update feels magnified. The Eagles are 4–2 and chasing momentum in a competitive NFC, where every win counts toward home-field advantage in the postseason.

Fans know that even a single absence on the line could ripple through the entire offensive rhythm. That’s why all eyes will be on Dickerson during Friday’s walkthrough and the team’s final injury report.

What happens next

The final decision on Dickerson’s status is expected late Saturday after medical re-evaluation and consultation with the coaching staff. If he’s cleared, he will likely play under a snap count restriction to manage workload. If not, Opeta steps in, and Philadelphia adjusts accordingly.

One thing is certain: whether he plays or not, Dickerson’s determination has already inspired the locker room. As Jalen Hurts said after practice,

“Landon’s got heart. That’s what makes this team special — we fight for each other.”

The bottom line

The Eagles’ Week 7 clash with the Vikings is shaping up as a defining moment in their 2025 campaign — and Landon Dickerson’s ankle could be the story that decides it.

His toughness and leadership symbolize Philadelphia’s identity: relentless, disciplined, and built to endure adversity.

If he takes the field on Sunday, it won’t just be a return from injury — it’ll be a statement of who the Eagles are at their core.