Philadelphia Eagles injury updates: 1 Important note on Jalen Mills

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 11: Jalen Mills #31 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after breaking up a pass against the New York Giants during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on October 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 11: Jalen Mills #31 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after breaking up a pass against the New York Giants during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on October 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images) /
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As the Philadelphia Eagles juggle bodies, cornerback remains a conversation piece. There’s one thing that isn’t getting mentioned much about Jalen Mills injury though.

Stop us if you have heard this one before. The injuries are starting to pile up for the Philadelphia Eagles on defense. Ronald Darby is working his way back from a knee injury. Rodney McLeod‘s dealing with his issues and wearing a very large knee brace (though it appears he’ll be okay). Then, there’s Cre’Von LeBlanc and Jalen Mills.

LeBlanc will need time to heal from a Lisfranc sprain, and Mills is on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list. What’s sad is we haven’t even gotten to the preseason slate of games yet.

When those four preseason games are over, Mills could still be on the PUP list when the regular season begins. He hasn’t been able to practice as he continues to heal from a foot injury and surgery that he had last season.

Here’s something big concerning that If that’s, indeed, what happens. Let’s say Mills does begin 2019’s regular season campaign on th PUP list. That means he won’t be available for the Eagles during the first six weeks of the regular season.

Let’s say that’s how things shake up. Philly would, then, have a five-week window to get Mills back on the practice field. Once (and if) he starts practicing, ‘The Birds’ will have an additional 21 days to decide whether or not they’re going to add Mills to the 53-man roster. If either of those deadlines pass, there’s a bigger issue.

Mills would have to remain on the PUP list for the remainder of 2019’s season.

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There are two important things to consider in reference to all of this. One, Philly’s down another body, and none of us know when he’ll be back. The other thing is this could lead to some interesting contract negotiations if Philly wants to extend Mills past 2019. Our most recent memories of him involve inconsistency and injury. That could hamper Mills’ chances of cashing in on a huge payday when he’s able to seek a new deal.