As expected, Ertz (ribs) and cornerback Leodis McKelvin (hamstring) are ruled out for their second straight game. Primarily a special teams player over his first two seasons, Burton was called upon to step up on offense for the Eagles on Monday night, and that’s exactly what he did, catching five passes for 49 yards and notching his first career National Football League receiving touchdown.
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Pederson said the upcoming week off played a factor in the decision.
“With Isaac missing these last couple of weeks, going forward it would probably be Wiz moving to that [left guard] spot”, Pederson said. It’s unclear whether he’ll be healthy enough to play Sunday against the Steelers. He has a strained quad and a fractured nose. Pederson said Kendricks will be able to play Sunday. Ertz talked about his recovery earlier in the week (see story) http://www.csnphilly.com/philadelphia-eagles/zach-ertz-lifting-doing-cardio-mum-timetable-return, and Pederson said his starting tight end is getting better. Before that game, Burton had three receptions for 54 yards in his first two seasons.
Rookie wide receiver Corey Coleman does not need surgery on his broken hand, a small but sorely needed positive for the Cleveland Browns. Against the Bears, Mills ended up playing 83 percent of the snaps.
If right tackle Lane Johnson is suspended for PED use, Pederson suggested that Stefen Wisniewski would likely move into the starting lineup at left guard after the Eagles bye week.
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After the bye week becomes pivotal because it is highly likely the Eagles will lose right tackle Lane Johnson shortly after his appeal hearing is held on October 4.
