PHILADELPHIA — The Eagles are hopeful quarterback Sam Bradford can return to action as the team takes a three-game losing streak on the road to face the New England Patriots.
Bradford, who suffered a concussion and an injury to the AC joint in his left shoulder in the team’s 20-19 loss to the Miami Dolphins on Nov. 15, has missed the Eagles’ last two games, both blowout losses — 45-17 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and 45-14 to the Detroit Lions.
“We’re looking for him to progress and get to where he needs to be,” Eagles offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur said Tuesday. “He wanted to play last game, he really did. He tried some things, but obviously he couldn’t go.”
If Bradford can’t play again Sunday, backup Mark Sanchez would make his third start of the season.
Bradford, who did not speak with reporters Tuesday, took part in individual drills during an abbreviated practice at the team’s indoor facility. He is expected to practice more Wednesday.
“I just don’t know exactly where we are from a throwing standpoint with him,” Eagles coach Chip Kelly said. “He threw a little bit on Thursday in Detroit. He wasn’t ready to play, obviously, but we hope he progresses to that point.”
Bradford was cleared from his concussion last week. But his left shoulder still is sore.
“It’s not like picking up a baseball and throwing it,” Shurmur said. “Throwing a football, you use your whole body.”
Bradford threw Tuesday and will try more as the week progresses. Kelly said the team also needs to know whether he can take a hit.
“If you have some instability in (the joint), you’re susceptible if you get hit,” Kelly said. “Can he handle that?”
Thumbnail photo via Eric Hartline/USA TODAY Sports Images
