Nick Sirianni offered Eagles fans a reason for optimism Monday, saying he is “hopeful” about getting offensive players back this week. However, the head coach also stressed that it remains early in the week, leaving Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith’s availability against Carolina unresolved.

Nick Sirianni said he's "hopeful" about getting some key offensive players back this week but adds that it's very early in the week.

It would really help if the Eagles could get DeVonta Smith (hamstring) or Saquon Barkley (hamstring) back against the Panthers.

— Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) October 12, 2026

Both players are dealing with hamstring injuries, and either return would provide a boost against the Panthers. Sirianni’s wording should be understood as cautious encouragement, not confirmation that Philadelphia will have its offensive personnel available Sunday.

Barkley missed the Eagles’ matchup with Jacksonville after injuring his right hamstring early in the previous game against the Rams. He lasted only four offensive snaps before exiting and subsequently missed the week of practice. His next opportunity to return is Oct. 18 against Carolina.

Smith’s absence has lasted longer. The receiver missed both the Rams and Jaguars games while managing a lingering hamstring issue. He was seen running on a side field last week, but that activity did not translate into practice participation before Philadelphia ruled him out.

Their potential returns would address different offensive needs. Barkley gives Philadelphia a rushing threat who can influence defensive spacing, create explosive gains and contribute as a receiver. Smith provides route-running precision and another target capable of winning individual matchups for Jalen Hurts.

Getting either player back could reduce the burden on replacement personnel. Getting both would give the Eagles more flexibility when deciding how to attack Carolina, particularly if opponents must account for the running game without neglecting coverage responsibilities.

Article Continues Below

The broader injury picture also deserves attention. Philadelphia ruled out receiver Hollywood Brown with an ankle injury and center Drew Kendall with a knee injury against Jacksonville. Sirianni’s optimism does not establish that either player will return this week.

The next meaningful evidence will come from practice reports and the final injury designations. Those updates should clarify whether Barkley and Smith are progressing toward game availability or remain unable to participate fully.

For now, Philadelphia has hope rather than certainty. The Eagles need their offensive playmakers healthy, but Monday’s encouraging message still leaves questions unanswered before preparations for the Panthers accelerate.