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 Philadelphia Eagles’ second preseason game against the New England Patriots, rookie running back Ja’Quinden Jackson was seriously injured on the very first play of the game—the opening kickoff.

Here’s the sequence of events in simple steps:

1. The Play: Jackson was running down the field to tackle the Patriots’ return man, Lan Larison.
2. The Hit: Jackson dove at Larison’s knees to make the tackle. As he did, he took a knee to the head and flipped over awkwardly.
3. Immediate Concern: Jackson stayed down on the field. Medical staff from both teams rushed out to help him.
4. A Moment of Unity: Players from both the Eagles and Patriots took a knee on the field—a sign of respect and concern—while Jackson was being treated.
5. Leaving the Field: After several minutes, Jackson was carefully placed on a stretcher and loaded into an ambulance. The entire Eagles team jogged onto the field to wish him well as he left the stadium.
6. Classy Response: Patriots players and the fans at Gillette Stadium cheered and applauded as Jackson was driven away.

Quick Note: Patriots broadcaster Scott Zolak mentioned on air that he saw Jackson moving his hands while medical staff were attending to him—a positive early sign.

Good News: Positive Update from the Eagles

The Eagles released an official statement shortly after the game with a very encouraging update:

“Ja’Quinden Jackson has strength and movement in all extremities and is being taken to a local hospital for further evaluation.”

Important Points to Remember

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Jackson has feeling and movement in his arms and legs ("all extremities").
• He is conscious and responsive (moving hands observed).
• He is at a hospital for precautionary tests—this is standard for any head/neck injury.
• The fact that he was moving on the field is a strong positive indicator.

Who Is Ja’Quinden Jackson?

You might not know his name yet—here’s the quick lowdown:

• Age: 24 years old
• Position: Running Back (RB)
• Experience: Second-year player (but first real chance in the NFL)
• College: University of Arkansas
• Draft Status: Undrafted in 2025 (not selected by any team in the NFL Draft)
• Previous Team: Spent all of last season on the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad (a developmental roster where players practice but don’t play in games).
• Current Team: Signed by the Eagles on August 10, 2026—just under two weeks before this game.
• NFL Stats: Zero regular-season carries in his career. He also didn’t touch the ball in the Eagles’ first preseason game this year.

In simple terms: He’s a young player fighting hard to make an NFL roster, and this was his big chance to show what he can do on special teams (kick coverage).

What Happens Next?

1. Hospital Evaluation: Jackson will undergo scans (like CT or MRI) to check for any hidden injuries to his head, neck, or spine.
2. Observation: He’ll likely stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight for monitoring.
3. Team Updates: The Eagles will share more information as doctors clear him.
4. Return Timeline: Unknown right now—depends entirely on test results. Player safety comes first.

The original article notes: “This story will be updated as more information becomes available.”

Summary

• Ja’Quinden Jackson, a 24-year-old Eagles rookie running back, was injured making a tackle on the opening kickoff vs. the Patriots.
• He took a knee to the head, was immobilized, and taken by ambulance to a hospital.
• Encouraging signs: He was moving his hands on the field, and the team confirmed he has strength and movement in all limbs.
• Jackson is an undrafted second-year player trying to make the roster; this was his first significant NFL game action.
• Both teams and fans showed great sportsmanship during a scary moment.
• Further updates will come from the Eagles after hospital evaluation.

FAQ

How serious is a "knee to the head" injury in football?

It can range from a concussion to a neck/spine injury. That’s why medical teams treat it extremely cautiously—immobilizing the player and taking them to the hospital even if they seem okay initially. The good news here is Jackson’s movement and the team’s positive statement.

What does "strength and movement in all extremities" mean?

It means Jackson can move and feel his arms and legs. This is a crucial neurological check—it suggests no major spinal cord damage.

Why was he on the field for a kickoff if he’s a running back?

NFL rosters are limited. Younger players often “earn their keep” on special teams (kickoffs, punts) while learning their main position. It’s a common way for rookies to make the team.

What’s a practice squad?

Think of it as a “reserve/developmental team.” Players practice with the main roster but don’t play in games unless promoted. They get paid, but less than active roster players.

Will Jackson play again this season?

Too early to say. His health is the only priority right now. If tests are clean, he could return in weeks. If there’s a concussion or neck issue, it could be longer—or he might be placed on Injured Reserve. The Eagles will decide based on doctor recommendations.

Stay tuned for official updates from the Philadelphia Eagles medical staff.