Jonathan Greenard Returns to Training After Pectoral Injury

PHILADELPHIA — Jonathan Greenard returned to the Philadelphia Eagles' practice facility on Wednesday, marking his first return to training after missing the entire training camp because of a pectoral injury. The Eagles will announce Greenard's official status after practice, but his return opens the possibility that the team's most important offseason acquisition could make his debut in the Week 1 game against the Washington Commanders. Greenard, 29, joined the Eagles through a trade with the Minnesota Vikings during draft weekend and later signed a four-year, $100 million contract extension, with $50 million guaranteed. After Jalil Phillips departed in free agency, Greenard was expected to take a top spot on the Eagles' pass-rusher depth chart. He suffered the pectoral strain while weightlifting before the start of training camp. The team initially downplayed the injury when it occurred, but defensive coordinator Vic Fangio remained uncertain about whether Greenard would be able to return for the start of the season. “He’s been working extremely hard,” head coach Nick Sirianni said before Wednesday’s practice. “We’ll see how things go by the weekend.” Greenard recorded 12 sacks in two of the past three seasons. During the portion of practice open to reporters, he participated in drills while wearing protective equipment. If his recovery continues smoothly this week and he is able to play against the Commanders, he will join a rotation featuring Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith. All three players are listed as co-starters on the team’s unofficial depth chart.