Ben VanSumeren: How serious is his injury and what’s next for the Eagles?
Ben VanSumeren carted off after suffering a knee injury on the opening kickoff against the Cowboys. Image Credit: Bleeding Green Nation
The Philadelphia Eagles’ season opener began with a nightmare scenario: fullback and special teams standout Ben VanSumeren went down on the very first play. After colliding during the kickoff, Ben VanSumeren clutched his knee in visible pain and was immediately ruled out for the rest of the game. Trainers carted him off, leaving teammates shaken and fans concerned about the severity of the injury.
How Serious Is the Knee Injury?
While official test results have yet to be released, the fact that Ben VanSumeren was carted off and unable to put weight on his leg suggests the possibility of a serious ligament injury. In NFL history, such non-contact or immediate-impact knee injuries often signal torn ligaments like the ACL or MCL.
The Eagles have labeled it a knee injury without a timetable, but early signs indicate that Ben VanSumeren could face an extended absence, if not the entire season.
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What This Means for Ben VanSumeren Career Development
VanSumeren entered 2025 with high expectations. Coaches projected him to play a much larger role on special teams and even carve out a spot in the offense as a versatile fullback. Losing the season opener to a significant knee issue not only halts that progress but also raises questions about his durability after past injuries.
For a young player fighting to establish himself in the league, a long-term setback could derail momentum and limit opportunities moving forward.
The Ripple Effect for the Eagles
VanSumeren’s injury leaves the Eagles scrambling. He was one of the team’s most trusted special teams contributors, and his fullback role gave Philadelphia valuable flexibility in short-yardage and blocking schemes.
Without him, the Eagles may need to rely on Khari Blasingame or reshuffle players into unfamiliar positions. Special teams, often overlooked, could now become a vulnerability as coaches work to fill the void.
What’s Next for Ben VanSumeren?
The next update will hinge on medical scans, which will confirm whether Ben VanSumeren faces weeks, months, or the full season on the sidelines. If surgery is required, his 2025 campaign could be over before it truly began.
Moving forward, the focus will be on his recovery and whether he can return as the explosive, high-motor player the Eagles saw in camp. His rehabilitation will be closely monitored, with his NFL future tied to how well he bounces back from this devastating early blow.
