The Eagles are facing an interesting question as they approach this Sunday's Wild Card contest vs. the Bears in Chicago.
It has to do with the quarterback.
But it's not about Nick Foles.
It's about Carson Wentz.
Wentz has been sidelined by a stress fracture in his back. He has not played since the lost to the Cowboys back on Dec. 9.
He has not been in uniform the last three weeks, but he has been with the team, and present on the sidelines.
But the team has not placed him on injured reserve, which would make him ineligible to return this season.
The situation got a little dicier Sunday when it was Foles turn to go down. St. Nick left Sunday's game vs. the Redskins after being sacked with soreness in his chest. Backup Nate Sudfeld took over behind center and actually threw a TD pass to Nelson Agholor.
That comes a week after Foles took a vicious shot to the chest w hile being sacked by the Texans' Jadaveon Clowney. Let's face it, both Foles and Wentz have fairly extensive injury records.
Coach Doug Pederson says Foles is fine and he will be the starter on Sunday in the Windy - and hopefully not foggy! - City.
But here is the more interesting question: Who will be his backup?
Given the fact that the team has not placed Wentz on IR, it gives the appearance that they might think he could be healthy to play again this year.
But that comes with all kinds of splinter questions.
Clearly the team is not about to mess with the karma they have going with Foles, who now has won three straight games in the sequel to last year's Super Bowl run.
But what would it do to Foles' psyche if Wentz was standing in uniform on the sideline. Especially if Foles struggled early in the game.
The team also would leave itself open to some serious second-guessing if Foles were to struggle - or be forced to leave the game again - and Wentz was not dressed.
Of course all of this is predicated on Wentz's health status.
I'm not suggesting that this team's future is anything other than Carson Wentz. It certainly appears inevitable that Foles will leave the team at the end of the season. Of course, I imagine that could change should Foles somehow manage the miracle of winning a second straight Super Bowl.
For now, there is intrigue in the Birds' backup QB spot.
And it likely will get louder as the week progresses.
Stay tuned.
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