Unexpected twist comes as Eagles versus Jets game loses one of its headliners

Well, we have to be honest. We didn't see this one coming. We've been discussing matchups all week in preparation for the Philadelphia Eagles' Week 6 clash versus the New York Jets. One was a potential head-to-head battle featuring Birds wide receiver A.J. Brown and one of the best young cornerbacks in the game, Sauce Gardner. It appears that we have been thrown a curveball.

New York announced on Saturday that, after listing last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year as questionable for the game due to an illness, he has indeed been downgraded to out and will miss this week's action as it has been learned that he's dealing with a concussion.

The Eagles face a Jets team that is without its second-best cornerback as well.

New York had already ruled fellow starting cornerback D.J. Reed out. He failed to pass the NFL's concussion protocol. Though we hate to see injuries, whether we're discussing the Eagles or their competition, it's hard to ignore that a game versus a Jets defense that is without its top two cornerbacks gives Philly a distinct advantage in this one.

New York is also without Brandin Echols (hamstring) and Justin Hardee (hamstring). Punt returner Xavier Gipson (ankle) was also named on Friday's injury report as a limited participant at practice. He is questionable as are defensive lineman Micheal Clemons (ankle) and fullback Nick Bawden (calf).

This story is developing. Bookmark this one. We'll keep you posted if there are any updates. Philly and the Jets will announce their Week 6 inactives 90 minutes before kickoff. It will be interesting to see how both teams adjust.

Check out a few other Eagles stories while you're here.