The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for Sunday's international matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but the team's biggest story entering the weekend might be the remarkable number of changes taking place across its roster.

Philadelphia released veteran quarterback Andy Dalton on Friday, ending his brief tenure with the organization just weeks after he appeared in a regular-season game. The decision came as the Eagles confirmed that several important offensive players will miss Sunday's game in London, including star running back Saquon Barkley.

Starting quarterback Jalen Hurts also appeared on the injury report with a calf issue, although he practiced fully and received no game designation. The combination of roster moves and injuries has created an unusual situation for a Philadelphia team trying to recover from a disappointing 2-2 start.

Andy Dalton's Eagles tenure ends after one appearance

The Eagles acquired Dalton from the Carolina Panthers in March, sending a seventh-round selection in the 2027 NFL Draft to bring the experienced quarterback to Philadelphia.

Friday’s Injury Report #PHIvsJAX https://t.co/DY2iRiLFmu

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) October 9, 2026

The move initially appeared to give the organization additional security behind Hurts. Dalton entered the season with extensive starting experience and three Pro Bowl selections, providing a veteran option in case the Eagles needed someone to manage their offense.

However, his only regular-season appearance did not go according to plan. Dalton entered Philadelphia's Week 3 loss to the Chicago Bears while Hurts was being evaluated for a possible concussion. His lone pass attempt was intercepted, and the Eagles eventually lost 27-7. Philadelphia subsequently moved Tanner McKee ahead of Dalton on the depth chart. McKee now becomes the primary backup, while rookie Cole Payton provides another quarterback option.

The decision represents a significant change considering Dalton's experience. The veteran has appeared in 180 NFL games, making 169 starts while throwing for 39,793 yards and 254 touchdowns. He will turn 39 later this month, and reports indicate that a return to Philadelphia's practice squad remains possible.

Saquon Barkley absence creates another offensive challenge

Dalton's departure is only one part of a difficult week for the Eagles.

Barkley has been ruled out because of a hamstring injury, removing one of Philadelphia's most dangerous offensive weapons. Wide receivers DeVonta Smith and Marquise Brown will also miss Sunday's matchup, leaving the Eagles without two important options in the passing game. The injuries extend beyond those three players. Safety Marcus Epps and offensive lineman Drew Kendall have also been ruled out, while linebacker Jonathan Greenard is questionable with an ankle problem.

Philadelphia's running back depth has been particularly affected. Tank Bigsby was placed on injured reserve after suffering a core injury that requires surgery, leaving Will Shipley positioned for a larger role. The Eagles have also added Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele to help address the situation.

Those changes create additional pressure on Hurts, who will be responsible for directing an offense missing several familiar contributors.

Jalen Hurts injury update provides encouraging news

There is at least one positive development for Philadelphia.

Hurts was a full participant in practice despite appearing on the injury report with a calf issue. The quarterback was not given an injury designation for Sunday's game, suggesting the Eagles expect him to be available against Jacksonville. That is particularly important given the team's other offensive concerns. Philadelphia will need Hurts to help maintain stability while a reshuffled group of running backs and receivers attempts to replace several established contributors.

The Eagles face a Jaguars team that enters the matchup with a 3-1 record, making Sunday's game an important opportunity to avoid falling below .500. Philadelphia has already experienced significant changes this season, including the retirement of offensive tackle Lane Johnson and the departure of center Cam Jurgens in a trade with Baltimore. Friday's developments added another layer to a difficult stretch.

The Eagles still have enough talent to compete, but their margin for error is shrinking. Sunday's matchup in London will provide an early indication of whether Hurts can keep the offense productive despite the growing number of players unavailable around him.