Eagles Running Back Hospitalized After Scary Kickoff Collision
Philadelphia Eagles running back Ja'Quinden Jackson was removed from the field by ambulance during Saturday's preseason game against the New England Patriots after being injured on the opening kickoff. The team reported that Jackson retains strength and movement in all extremities and was transported to a hospital for further evaluation. The incident occurred early in the contest, prompting immediate medical attention.
Jackson's agent, Damien Butler, confirmed that a CT scan came back negative and that the running back was awake and alert following the collision. He was released from the hospital that evening and traveled back to Philadelphia with the team. Butler expressed gratitude toward the Eagles' medical staff and first responders for their swift care.
The 24-year-old went undrafted in 2025 and spent last season on Jacksonville's practice squad after signing with them. He was waived in May and later picked up by Philadelphia in August. In college, he rushed for 2,148 yards and 29 touchdowns across stints at Utah and Arkansas. He was competing for a roster spot behind Saquon Barkley, Tank Bigsby, and Will Shipley.
This incident may heighten awareness of the inherent dangers in football, particularly on high-speed kickoff plays, and could influence how teams evaluate player safety protocols during preseason games. It may also affect Jackson's immediate roster prospects, as the Eagles must weigh his recovery timeline against final cuts. Fans and teammates may feel renewed concern about player well-being, potentially reinforcing broader conversations about injury risks and emergency preparedness in the sport.