Eagles Player Rushed to Hospital After Terrifying Kickoff Collision
Eagles Rookie Ja’Quinden Jackson Injured in Preseason Game: What Happened and What We Know
Updated: August 22, 2026, 7:32 p.m. ET
What Happened During the Game
On Friday night, the Philadelphia Eagles were playing their second preseason game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Here’s how the scary moment unfolded:
- Opening kickoff – The very first play of the game
- Patriots return man Lan Larison caught the ball and started running
- Eagles rookie Ja’Quinden Jackson ran downfield to make the tackle
- The collision – Jackson dove at Larison’s knees, flipping him over
- The injury – As Jackson made the tackle, he took a knee to the head
- Immediate concern – Jackson stayed down on the field and didn’t get up
The Injury and Immediate Response
IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM THE EAGLES
"Ja’Quinden Jackson has strength and movement in all extremities and is being taken to a local hospital for further evaluation."
Here’s what happened right after the play:
- Medical staff rushed onto the field to check on Jackson
- Both teams took a knee – a sign of respect and concern in football
- Jackson was carefully placed on a stretcher and loaded into an ambulance
- The entire Eagles team ran onto the field to support their teammate
- Patriots players AND fans at the stadium cheered and applauded as Jackson left
- Patriots broadcaster Scott Zolak reported he saw Jackson moving his hands while being treated
Who Is Ja’Quinden Jackson?
Let’s get to know the young player at the center of this story:
- Age: 24 years old
- Position: Running back (offensive player who carries the ball)
- Experience: Second-year player, but never played in a real NFL regular-season game
- College: University of Arkansas
- Draft status: Went undrafted in 2025 (not selected by any team)
- First NFL stop: Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad (2025 season)
- Current team: Signed with the Eagles on August 10, 2026
- Preseason stats: No touches in the Eagles’ first 2026 preseason game
In simple terms: Jackson is a young guy fighting hard to make an NFL roster. He was playing on special teams (kickoff coverage) when he got hurt – something rookies often do to prove their value.
What Happens Next?
| Step | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 1⃣ | Hospital evaluation – Doctors will run tests (likely CT scan, MRI) to check for concussion, neck/spine issues |
| 2⃣ | Official diagnosis – The Eagles will share more details once they have them |
| 3⃣ | Recovery timeline – Depends entirely on what the tests show |
| 4⃣ | Roster decisions – The Eagles must cut their roster down to 53 players by late August |
Note: This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Summary
- Ja’Quinden Jackson, a 24-year-old Eagles rookie running back, was seriously injured on the opening kickoff of a preseason game against the Patriots
- He took a knee to the head while making a tackle on return man Lan Larison
- Good news: The Eagles confirmed he has movement and strength in all limbs and was taken to a hospital for further checks
- Both teams and fans showed tremendous support as he left the field
- Jackson is a second-year undrafted player from Arkansas trying to make his first regular-season NFL appearance
- More updates are coming as doctors complete their evaluation
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "strength and movement in all extremities" mean?
Simple answer: It means Jackson can move and feel his arms and legs. This is a very positive sign that there’s likely no major spinal cord injury.
Why was a running back playing on kickoff coverage?
Simple answer: In the NFL, rookies and backup players often play "special teams" (kickoffs, punts) to earn a roster spot. It’s a way to contribute even if you’re not the starting running back.
What’s the difference between preseason and regular season?
Simple answer:
- Preseason: 3 practice games that don’t count for standings. Teams evaluate players.
- Regular season: 17 games that count toward playoffs and records.
What is a practice squad?
Simple answer: A group of up to 16 players who practice with the team but don’t play in games (unless promoted). They’re "reserves in training."
When will we know more about Jackson’s condition?
Simple answer: Usually within 24-48 hours after hospital evaluation. The Eagles will release an official update when they have definitive information.
This article will be updated as new information becomes available. Wishing Ja’Quinden a full and speedy recovery!