The Eagles will face the 4-1 Panthers without right tackle Lane Johnson, who is out with a concussion. Doug Pederson confirmed Wednesday morning that Johnson will not play and hinted at backup tackle Halapoulivaati Vaitai filling in for Johnson at the right tackle spot. Vaitai stepped in for Johnson during the second half of the win against the Cardinals.
"He's played in games and he's played in big-time games for us last year and even last week, so that gives your quarterback a lot of confidence going in," Pederson said of Vaitai. "He's getting better and he's played and he's playing with a little confidence right now too which also helps him."
Six Eagles are listed as questionable heading into Thursday including Fletcher Cox. The defensive tackle fully participated in practice on Tuesday afternoon for the first time in two weeks. Cox will travel with the team but is a game-time decision.
In addition, running back Wendell Smallwood (knee), defensive end Chris Long (foot), defensive tackles Beau Allen (foot) and Destiny Vaeao (wrist), and cornerback Jaylen Watkins (hamstring) are also listed as questionable.
On a side note, Pederson stated that Stefen Wisniewski will see the majority of the snaps in Thursday's contest at left guard with Chance Warmack serving as his backup. The two have split reps in the past three games.
