On the very first play of the preseason game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New England Patriots, there was a scary moment.
The opening kickoff featured a tough injury to Eagles running back Ja’Quiden Jackson, who was taken off the field. Jackson was on the ground for several minutes until the stretcher was brought out to take him off the field and was loaded into the ambulance.
Philly just signed Jackson during training camp to help with the depth at running back. Jackson replaced Elijah Mitchell, who was injured and released with an injury designation.
Philadelphia Eagles Lose Ja’Quiden Jackson to Injury Versus the Patriots
GettyBALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 15: Head coach Nick Sirianni of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on during the first half of the preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on August 15, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
The Eagles gave an update on Jackson shortly after the injury happened.
“Eagles RB Ja’Quinden Jackson has strength and movement in all extremities and is being taken to a local hospital for further evaluation.”
Jackson was an undrafted free agent last year, as he first signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Although he did not make the 53-man roster, he remained on their practice squad all season. The Jaguars released Jackson back in May.
During his college career, Jackson played for the Texas Longhorns, Utah Utes, and the Arkansas Razorbacks. In 2024, he was selected as a second-team All-SEC selection with the Razorbacks after rushing for 790 yards and 15 touchdowns.
The Eagles signed Jackson just two weeks ago. He was expected to compete for a spot on the practice squad during training camp.
Eagles Go Back to the Drawing Board at Running Back
GettyEAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – OCTOBER 20: Kenny Pickett #7 and Will Shipley #28 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on October 20, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
The Eagles need more options at the running back position after Jackson’s injury. Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby are the top two backs on the roster, but the rest have to be decided.
Will Shipley is the favorite to win the RB3 job, but Dameon Pierce is competing for that spot as well. Shipley has the advantage through his play in the backfield and as a special-teams returner.
During the joint practice with the Patriots, Shipley was a standout performer there. He made some big runs on the ground, but his contribution in the passing game really helped his stock go up in training camp.
Pierce will have a tough battle to get back in the conversation. He will need to make some plays in preseason if he wants to be a serious competitor to Shipley.
The Eagles will have some decisions to make at running back with Jackson hurt. Philly just hopes the young running back will be okay and can play soon enough. For now, the Eagles will have to press on and wait for an update.
Eagles’ Running Back Gets Carted Off After Scary Injury Against Patriots