Eagles Notes: Eagles' secondary hit with injuries

MINNEAPOLIS - The Eagles lost three defensive backs in their 48-30 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday and finished the game with only three healthy cornerbacks and two healthy safeties.

Kurt Coleman left the game with a hamstring injury, Brandon Boykin left the game with a head injury, and Colt Anderson left the game with a knee injury.

Coleman had entered the game on defense to replace Patrick Chung, who has struggled as a starter.

"I think Kurt deserved some time, and we're just trying to figure out who can play," Kelly said of the change at safety.

When Coleman left the game, Anderson played on defense in place of Chung. Coleman and Anderson had previously been special teams players this season, so it was a clear demotion for Chung.

With Boykin sidelined, Roc Carmichael became the team's third cornerback, and Brad Smith became the team's kick returner. Smith had a 47-yard kick return in the fourth quarter.

The injuries did not help a secondary that had been struggling all afternoon. Minnesota's 382 passing yards were the most the Eagles allowed since San Diego's 413 passing yards in Week 2.

Carmichael replaced Cary Williams late in the fourth quarter after defensive coordinator Bill Davis took Williams out following an unnecessary roughness penalty. Davis said he wanted Williams to calm down. Williams declined comment after the game.

It will help the secondary when Earl Wolff returns. Wolff, who is expected to start next week in place of Chung, missed his fourth consecutive game with a knee injury.

"The doctors didn't think he was ready this week, so we'll see where he is next week," Kelly said.

It appears that Chris Polk has supplanted Bryce Brown as the No. 2 running back for the Eagles. Brown did not record a carry.

Polk did not record a carry and dropped a third-down pass, which was the only pass intended for him. He also played on special teams. Polk rushed for a touchdown last week and earned the praise of the coaches, who said he deserves more playing time.

Kicker Alex Henery tied his career long with a 51-yard field goal. Henery connected on all three of his attempts.