BREAKING: Eagles activate prolific WR on IR to active roster ahead of Bengals game

The Eagles activated rookie receiver Ainias Smith from Injured Reserve on Saturday, filling the open spot on their 53-man roster before their game against the Bengals on Sunday.

This move follows the Eagles placing defensive tackle Byron Young on IR due to a hamstring injury, which created a roster vacancy.

Smith, a fifth-round draft pick from Texas A&M, started the season on IR after injuring his ankle late in training camp. The Eagles opened his 21-day practice window on October 7, needing to decide whether to keep him on IR for the season or add him to the active roster. They opted for the latter.

Although Smith faced a tough start due to a stress fracture in the spring and early struggles in training camp, he appeared to improve late in the summer. Placing him on IR initially avoided a tough roster decision. He now joins the team as the fifth receiver, alongside A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jahan Dotson, and Johnny Wilson. When Britain Covey eventually returns from IR, the Eagles may face another roster decision.