Two Eagles players carted off, have concussions

PHILADELPHIA — Two Eagles players, wide receiver Tyrie Cleveland and rookie defensive lineman Moro Ojomo, were carted off the field during Thursday’s preseason game against the Cleveland Browns.

The team updated the status of both players Friday, saying Cleveland had been diagnosed with a concussion and a neck sprain while Ojomo has a concussion. Both players were responsive and had full function in their extremities on the field, the Eagles said.

There were a number of injuries for Philadelphia on the night. Cornerback Zech McPhearson was ruled out of the game after sustaining an ankle injury early in the second quarter, with a source saying Friday that McPhearson has a torn Achilles. Rookie first-round pick Nolan Smith exited with a shoulder injury, as did wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus. Offensive lineman Josh Andrews left with an ankle injury in the first half and did not return.

Smith, who has opened eyes with his standout play during training camp, told reporters afterward that he is “feeling good” and that he was taken out for precautionary reasons.

The scariest moments surrounded the injuries to Cleveland, who landed on his head/neck area while attempting to make a diving catch, and Ojomo, who appeared to get accidentally hit by a teammate on a separate play.

Both stayed on the ground for an extended period of time before being placed on stretchers as teammates surrounded them.

“Your heart goes out to them first and foremost, and you just think about your teammate,” said quarterback Marcus Mariota. “We play a game and it’s a blessing to play a game, but when these situations get like that, it is scary.”

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