Could the Eagles add a starting defensive back for the playoff run?

The Eagles opened the 21-day practice window for starting nickel cornerback Avonte Maddox on Thursday. Maddox suffered a pectoral injury in the Week 2 win over the Minnesota Vikings and has been on Injured Reserve since.

"He's a great football player who has made a lot of plays here," said Head Coach Nick Sirianni when Maddox went on Injured Reserve. "I thought he was playing really good football, really being aggressive. (He) caused that fumble (against Minnesota), made some really good plays on the perimeter, so we'll miss his contributions both as a teammate and on the field."

To make up for Maddox's absence, the Eagles have played several cornerbacks in the slot throughout the season. Veteran Bradley Roby, signed by the Eagles on October 4th, has been the primary nickel cornerback after returning from a shoulder injury in late November.

Last month, Sirianni was asked about the chances of a potential return for Maddox at some point and he responded, "We'll see."

Maddox would give the Eagles additional flexibility in the secondary at a time when Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay's status is week-to-week with a knee injury.

The Eagles practice Thursday for the first time this week ahead of the Christmas Day showdown with the New York Giants. Maddox can be added to the active roster at any point, but the Eagles would need to make a roster move to open a spot for him.