The Eagles defense you'll see Sunday night on national television against the 49ers isn't the one you've seen for the first four games.
Asante Samuel didn't travel with the team Friday on its flight to the Bay Area after a setback in his recovery from a concussion, head coach Andy Reid said after Friday's practice.
Samuel "feels great," Reid said, but didn't clear enough tests at the NovaCare Complex.
Reid also said Juqua Parker would start at left defensive end over rookie Brandon Graham.
Moise Fokou has already supplanted Akeem Jordan at strong-side linebacker.
Joselio Hanson will take Samuel's place at right cornerback, although in the nickel he'll move inside to make room for Dimitri Patterson on the outside.
That makes three new starters for Sean McDermott's defense, which is hoping to avoid a repeat of last Sunday's performance against the Redskins, who rolled up 169 rushing yards in their 17-12 win.
We have the Eagles ranked at 13 this week. If they are your normal defense and the only defense on your roster, start them, but if you have a better alternative, don't hesistate to send Philadelphia to the sidelines.
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