Eagles announce big news on key players ahead of showdown vs. Dolphins

An ankle injury forced Carter to miss Philly's Week 6 loss to the New York Jets. The first-year pass-rusher has looked anything but over the first five games of his NFL career, recording 3.5 sacks, seven tackles (four for loss), four QB hits and two forced fumbles. Despite sitting out a week, Carter remains the highest-graded (91.8) interior defensive lineman, per Pro Football Focus. 

Meanwhile, Slay is also back in the Eagles lineup after missing a game with an ankle injury. Safety Reed Blankenship (ribs) and CB Bradley Roby (shoulder) are ruled out for Sunday, so a healthy Slay will give the Eagles secondary a significant boost as he'll likely line up against explosive wideout Tyreek Hill more than not. 

The Dolphins offense ranks first in the NFL in yards (498.7), rushing (181.8) and passing (316.8), along with points per game (37.2), and it'll be a chore trying to slow them down. However, having Carter and Slay back at full strength gives the Eagles a fighter's chance. 

Sometimes, the best way to derail a seemingly unstoppable offense like Miami's is by countering with an efficient one of your own. Having Johnson back to anchor the Eagles' already-solid offensive line gives them a chance to attack the Dolphins, ranked 19th in defense (343.7), at full strength. While likely not at one hundred percent, Johnson's mere presence will be a considerable plus for the Eagles, especially after his replacement, Jake Driscoll, struggled mightily in relief against the Jets. 

Johnson's status for the game was uncertain after he left last week's contest with an ankle sprain, as were two of QB Jalen Hurts' top weapons, tight end Dallas Goedert (groin) and WR DeVonta Smith (hamstring). Still, like Johnson, both will suit up at home against the Dolphins. 

Miami will be a stiff test for the Eagles. However, with several essential pieces ready to go, they'll be prepared to take the AFC juggernaut's best shot.