Jordan Hicks, Darren Sproles prepare for first playoff game as Eagles

When Philly takes the field on Sunday, it will be the first time two of their veteran leaders, Jordan Hicks and Darren Sproles will be joining their Eagles teammates in a playoff environment.

For two Philadelphia Eagles, Jordan Hicks and Darren Sproles, their NFL stories couldn’t be any different. One plays on the offensive side of the ball. The other, on defense. One’s seemingly battled injury his entire career. One seemed as though he was indestructible but may have finally met Father Time. Both share one common thread however.

Neither was on the field for the Eagles’ Super Bowl run a season ago. Sproles was placed on the team’s IR (injured reserve) after a broken arm and torn ACL ended his season after three weeks. Hicks went down in Week 7 with an Achilles injury, and was placed on IR on Halloween of 2017.

For Hicks, it was the second time in three seasons that he’d be unable to finish the regular season. For Sproles, as mentioned, his seemingly indestructible frame has worn down a little with age.

He’s had much success and, at times, he’s seemed like a freak of nature playing the game’s most punishing position, but recently he’s battled injury.

This season, which was supposed to be his last, should have been a farewell tour, but instead, a hamstring injury that he suffered in a practice before Week 2 robbed Eagles fans of quite a few chances to see ‘Number 43’ running around and making plays.

Hicks is one of the most talented middle linebackers when he’s on the field, but he has to be on the field.

After this season, Philly has some decisions to make. Sproles has mentioned he may be interested in one more run. ‘The Birds’ will also need to decide whether or not they’ll offer Hicks a long-term deal.

In looking at his resume, which includes him injuring himself while getting out of a swimming pool, the Eagles will need to determine whether or not he’s worth a long-term commitment.

For now, Eagles fans finally get to see these two fan favorites suit up for a playoff game. Buckle up ladies and gentlemen. This should be fun.