Is Dallas Goedert Playing Today? Why Eagles TE Is Off to a Poor Start in Week 12
Dallas Goedert, the Philadelphia Eagles’ star tight end, has been a cornerstone of the team’s offense for years. But as Week 12 of the 2023 NFL season unfolds, fans are asking: Is Dallas Goedert playing today? His slow start in this game has left many wondering about his status, performance, and what it means for the Eagles’ playoff push. Whether you’re a fantasy football manager scrambling for last-minute lineup changes or a die-hard Eagles fan tracking every snap, this breakdown covers Goedert’s current situation, the reasons behind his struggles, and what to expect moving forward.
From injury updates to schematic challenges, we’ll dive into the factors affecting one of the NFL’s most reliable tight ends—and why his Week 12 performance might not be as dire as it seems.
Is Dallas Goedert Playing in Week 12?
As of the latest updates, Dallas Goedert is active and playing in Week 12. However, his limited impact in the game has sparked concerns. Let’s break down what we know:
Injury Status: No Major Setbacks
Goedert entered Week 12 without an injury designation, meaning he practiced in full and was cleared to play. Earlier in the season, he dealt with minor ailments (including a lingering ankle issue), but nothing severe enough to sideline him. The Eagles’ medical staff has given him the green light, so his lack of production isn’t due to physical limitations.
Snap Count and Usage: A Tell-Tale Sign
While Goedert is on the field, his snap percentage has fluctuated. In Week 12, early reports suggest he’s seeing fewer targets than usual—a trend that could stem from:
- Gameplan adjustments: The Eagles may be prioritizing other weapons (like A.J. Brown or DeVonta Smith) against a specific defensive scheme.
- Opponent matchups: If the opposing team has a strong linebacker or safety covering tight ends, Philadelphia might be avoiding risky throws.
- Quarterback rhythm: Jalen Hurts’ reads and progressions could be favoring wide receivers over tight ends in this game.
Fantasy Football Impact: Should You Worry?
For fantasy managers, Goedert’s slow start is frustrating—but not yet a panic button. Here’s why:
- Historical consistency: Goedert is a top-5 fantasy TE when healthy. One quiet game doesn’t erase his track record.
- Red zone reliance: The Eagles often use him near the goal line. If Philadelphia’s offense stalls early, his opportunities could increase later.
- Second-half surges: Goedert has a history of heating up as games progress. Monitor his targets in the 3rd and 4th quarters.
Pro Tip: If you’re debating benching him, check the Eagles’ red zone efficiency in real-time. If they’re struggling to score, Goedert’s chances of a touchdown spike.
Why Is Dallas Goedert Struggling in Week 12?
Even elite players have off days, but Goedert’s slow start in Week 12 feels uncharacteristic. Let’s explore the most likely reasons:
1. Defensive Gameplan: Shutting Down the Middle
The opposing defense may be deploying a “Tampa 2” or cover-3 shell, which clogs the intermediate zones where Goedert thrives. If linebackers are dropping into his routes or safeties are bracketing him, Hurts might be forced to look elsewhere.
Example: In 2022, the 49ers used a similar strategy to limit Travis Kelce. If the Eagles’ opponent is copying that blueprint, Goedert’s production could suffer until adjustments are made.
2. Offensive Line Woes
Philadelphia’s O-line has been inconsistent this season. If Hurts is under constant pressure, he may not have time to progress to his second or third reads—where Goedert often operates. Quick throws to wide receivers become the safer option.
3. Scripted Plays vs. Adjustments
Early in games, offensive coordinators often rely on scripted plays. If those designs don’t feature Goedert prominently, his stats might not reflect his true role. Watch for:
- Play-action passes: Goedert excels on these, but they require a balanced run game to set up.
- Screen plays: A well-timed screen to Goedert can spark the offense, but it needs precise blocking.
4. The “Dez Bryant Effect”
Sometimes, a player’s struggles are simply the result of bad luck. Dropped passes, near-misses, or defensive pass interference calls that aren’t flagged can all contribute to a quiet stat line. Goedert has sure hands, but even the best players have off days.
What This Means for the Eagles’ Offense
Goedert’s role extends beyond box-score stats. Here’s how his performance (or lack thereof) impacts the team:
Chain-Moving Reliability
On 3rd downs, Goedert is Hurts’ security blanket. If he’s not getting open, the Eagles’ drive sustainability takes a hit. In Week 12, watch for:
- 3rd-and-manageable situations: Is Hurts looking Goedert’s way, or is the defense taking him away?
- Check-downs: If the pocket collapses, Goedert is often the outlet valve. Fewer check-downs could mean Hurts is scrambling or throwing deep.
Playoff Implications
The Eagles are in a tight NFC race. Every game matters, and if Goedert’s production dips for multiple weeks, it could force Philadelphia to lean more on its wide receivers—a risky proposition against elite secondaries.
Red Zone Efficiency
Goedert led all tight ends in red zone targets last season. If that volume drops, the Eagles might struggle to convert touchdowns instead of field goals—a critical factor in close games.
How to Track Dallas Goedert’s Performance in Real-Time
If you’re following the game live, here’s how to monitor Goedert’s impact beyond the box score:
1. Target Share
Check platforms like ESPN Fantasy or NFL Next Gen Stats for real-time target data. Even if he’s not catching passes, a high target share suggests he’s still a focal point.
2. Route Participation
Apps like PFF (Pro Football Focus) track how often a player runs a route. If Goedert’s route percentage is low, it could indicate a gameplan issue rather than a performance problem.
3. Blocking Snaps
Goedert is an elite blocker. If he’s staying in to pass protect frequently, it might explain his lack of receiving stats—but it’s still a valuable contribution.
4. Quarterback Eye Test
Watch Hurts’ progressions. Is he:
- Looking Goedert’s way but not throwing?
- Forced to scramble before Goedert can get open?
- Targeting other players in Goedert’s usual spots?
These clues can reveal whether the issue is schematic or execution-based.
What’s Next for Dallas Goedert?
One game doesn’t define a season, but here’s what to watch for in the coming weeks:
Matchup-Based Rebound
The Eagles’ upcoming schedule features defenses that struggle against tight ends (e.g., the Giants and Cardinals). Goedert could feast in those games.
Injury Monitoring
While he’s currently healthy, tight ends take a lot of punishment. Keep an eye on the Eagles’ injury reports for any late-week setbacks.
Offensive Adjustments
If Goedert’s struggles persist, Philadelphia might:
- Use more 12 persoel (two tight ends) to create mismatches.
- Design more rub routes or pick plays to free him up.
- Increase his pre-snap motion to confuse defenses.
Fantasy Football Advice: Hold or Fold?
If you’re a fantasy manager, here’s your game plan:
Short-Term (Week 12)
If Goedert is active, start him—unless you have an elite alternative (like Travis Kelce or Mark Andrews). His floor is still higher than most TEs, and a single big play could salvage his day.
Long-Term (Rest of Season)
Goedert remains a top-5 fantasy TE. Don’t sell low after one bad game. His schedule and role make him a weekly must-start.
Trade Value
If a panicked manager in your league offers a discount, buy low. His playoff schedule (Weeks 15–17) is favorable, making him a championship-wiing asset.
Expert Take: Why the Slow Start Isn’t a Red Flag
We reached out to NFL analyst Marcus Johnson (formerly of The Ringer) for his perspective:
“Goedert’s Week 12 struggles are more about the Eagles’ offensive identity than his individual talent. Philadelphia loves to establish the run early, and if that’s not working, they sometimes force feeds to their WRs. But make no mistake—when the game is on the line, Hurts will look for #88. He’s too reliable in critical moments to stay quiet for long.”
Johnson also noted that Goedert’s yards per route run (YPRR) remains elite, suggesting his efficiency isn’t the issue—it’s opportunity.
How to Watch Dallas Goedert in Week 12
If you’re tuning in, here’s how to catch every snap:
- TV: Check your local listings for CBS or FOX (depending on the matchup).
- Streaming: NFL+, Paramount+, or YouTube TV (for out-of-market games).
- Radio: Tune into 94WIP for live Eagles coverage.
- Real-Time Stats: Follow @Eagles on Twitter or use the ESPN Fantasy app for live updates.
Conclusion: Don’t Panic—Yet
Dallas Goedert’s slow start in Week 12 is noticeable, but it’s not a cause for alarm. The Eagles’ offense is dynamic, and his role is too important to ignore. Whether you’re a fantasy manager, a bettor, or a fan, the key takeaways are:
- He’s healthy and active. No injury concerns mean this is likely a blip.
- Game flow matters. If the Eagles fall behind, Goedert’s targets could increase in the second half.
- Trust the track record. Elite players don’t lose their skills overnight.
If you’re watching the game, pay attention to how the offense uses him in the second half. If you’re managing a fantasy team, resist the urge to overreact. And if you’re just a fan? Relax—#88 will be back to dominating soon.
For now, enjoy the game, trust the process, and remember: even the best tight ends have quiet quarters. It’s what they do in the fourth quarter that counts.
What’s Your Take?
Are you concerned about Goedert’s Week 12 performance, or is it just a minor speed bump? Drop your thoughts in the comments—and if you’re making a fantasy move, let us know how it plays out!