From the moment Philadelphia Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr. was placed on IR, everyone thought a door might have opened for Azeez Ojulari to be active and finally play. That's not going to happen against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Eagles released their list of the five players who are inactive for their Week 4 matchup against the Buccaneers. Once again, Ojulari won't play in a game.
- Azeez Ojulari, EDGE
- Adoree' Jackson, CB
- Sam Howell, QB (Third String)
- Drew Kendall, OL
- Xavier Gipson, WR
Another notable player on the team is Jackson, who is out for the game with a groin injury. He did practice on Friday, but it was not enough for him to be ready for the game. Kelee Ringo is expected to replace him.
Howell is inactive as the third-string quarterback for the first time this season. Tanner McKee had been dealing with a fractured thumb injury, but finally was active this week to play, so he will serve as the backup.
Ojulari may never see the field as an Eagle at this point
Many Eagles fans are familiar with Ojulari from his time spent with the New York Giants on their defense. He was remembered as a fast edge rusher who was great at pressuring the quarterback.
A lackluster training camp and preseason with the Eagles knocked out any chances of him being a starter or backup on the defense. Since then, he has never been active for a single game.
This really could be the start of the end for Ojulari, as even Smith's injury was not enough for him to get on the field. At this point, he may never suit up in the midnight green uniform in 2025.
Read more: Saquon Barkley just confirmed what Eagles fans worry most about with Buccaneers
Watch for Josh Uche to get more playing time as he has been stellar all season. Uche and Z'Darius Smith are the edge rushers the Eagles plan on rolling with alongside Jalyx Hunt for the time being.