Trent Cole undergoing surgery on broken hand, out Saturday vs. Washington

Trent Cole is undergoing surgery on his fractured left hand and will be out for Saturday's game against the Washington Redskins, coach Chip Kelly said. Kelly did not know if Cole can return for Week 17. Cole is getting a "plate" inserted in his hand.

Brandon Graham will start in Cole's place.

"BG has really picked up what we're trying to do," Kelly said. "There's a lot of nuances to it. Brandon can set an edge. Brandon can rush a quarterback. He's doing a better job in pass coverage. We've been really happy to him. He's really dedicated himself. I think he's really played better from a special teams standpoint."

Marcus Smith and Bryan Braman will be the reserve linebackers, depending on the situation. Smith will play both inside and outside linebacker.

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Quarterback Nick Foles is throwing at practice, but he still cannot take contact. Kelly said until the bone is fully healed, Foles won't be able to play because he would re-injure his collarbone.

It is not yet known if Foles will return this season. Kelly said the Eagles have not considering putting Foles on injured reserve.

zberman@phillynews.com

@ZBerm