Bleacher Report - Articles by Leo Pizzini

Cornelius Ingram Is Out: Torn ACL

Leo Pizzini — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 15:36:17 -0400

The word has just been released that tight end Cornelius Ingram has suffered an ACL tear and is presumably heading for the injured reserve list and thereby out for the season.

Ingram underwent an MRI this morning and the news is not good. Fortunately, rookie free agent Eugene Bright has looked very good in camp as a big, imposing player who can catch.

He lacks experience at tight end, having played defensive end at Purdue, so what to expect from him is a big unknown.

What does seem apparent is the preservation of employment for Matt Schobel. For better or worse.

Ingram was a very exciting prospective weapon for 2009. He played very well in training camp and now he can only hope to rebound better than Jack Ikegwuonu and hopefully in the form of Correll Buckhalter, who came off of multiple knee surgeries much like Ingram will have to do.

The news coming out of camp has been disheartening to say the least. The Eagles have been a team that has played at their best when expected to fail and although no one would be expecting that, there is plenty of reason to downgrade hopes.

Everything can still be overcome, but the disappointment is very real.

Another Eagles Injury: DeSean Jackson's Knee

Leo Pizzini — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 15:11:36 -0400

DeSean Jackson had to be carted off of the field during Saturday's practice. The initial report is a hyper-extension of the knee, although no official statement has been issued to clarify the extent of the injury.

The Eagles are deep at receiver and in general, but not deep enough to sustain more preseason casualties at any position when dealing with starters like Jackson and Bradley.

Cornelius Ingram also underwent an MRI on his knee this morning with results not having been declared. The good news is that Eugene Bright will continue to gain experience, but that good news comes with too heavy a price.

This training camp is turning into a nightmare. The Eagles still have a great team, but the injuries are becoming very troublesome. What once looked like an elite team, is now starting to look like it needs some rest and is quickly slipping from the their top tier position.

They still have all of the players to rebound from the loss of Bradley and Dawkins and even Jackson and Ingram if they must, but the task at hand is becoming more formidable and much less exciting.

It's becoming a struggle to keep our heads up as Eagles fans.

Jim Johnson Is Gone But Not Forgotten

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:31:10 -0400

With the most regret I can offer, Jimmy Johnson, our beloved defensive coordinator, has lost his battle with cancer.

Aside from the spectacular adjustments and play calls that he made as a football coach, Johnson was a model man.

Humble and accomplished.

We will miss J.J. and with a very sad heart I wish his family everything that I can.

The city of Philadelphia hurts right now, but J.J. will never be forgotten. Not by his team, the players, the entire NFL and sports community.

The man is a legend, an immortal, a revolutionary thinker and an example of what all men should aspire to be.

Brian Westbrook Back on the Field for the Philadelphia Eagles

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:53:53 -0400

After two off-season surgeries, Philadelphia's favorite warrior has been sighted at Lehigh University. That's right, it's Brian Westbrook, hereinafter affectionately referred to as B-Dub.

What's he doing? Running!

I am writing this to strike fear into the hearts of the doom-and-gloom contingency banking on B-Dub's injuries to hinder not only his season but that of the Eagles.

Those who have watched B-Dub play every week throughout his career know without question that the man is a warrior of unquestionable stamina and toughness, and he will prove it yet again in 2009.

His knee was working well in the 2009 OTAs after his first surgery, and the fact that he is out and about, jogging and whatnot on the sidelines at Lehigh seals the deal.

We have a pain-free B-Dub ready to take it to the NFL again. No bone spurs, no knee swelling; just a warrior ready to play bigger than his size, as he has always done.

This hype machine says B-Dub is the most elusive and complete running back in the NFL. A fantastic runner between the tackles, a breakaway threat, a receiver out of the backfield, a goal-line back, an open-field runner, a pass blocker, and anything else you can imagine to say.

He's proven he can handle a heavy workload, and in a new offense that features a real lead blocker, a complementary running back group, a monster offensive line, and inside/outside passing threats with an elite quarterback, Westbrook will have a career year.

Expect a huge season from B-Dub, not a downgraded performance. B-Dub is going to lead this team's backfield with a pure performance and earn a spot in the Pro Bowl after laying claim to the all-time rushing title in Philadelphia Eagles history.

Let it be said. Let it be done.

Why Victor Abiamiri Will Complete the Philadelphia Eagles Defensive Line

Leo Pizzini — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 19:42:36 -0400

In the second round (57th overall) of the 2007 draft, the Eagles selected the stand out defensive end from Notre Dame, Victor Abiamiri. He would seem to be heading for the starting job in 2009 opposite of elite right defensive end, Trent Cole.

With the 2005 and 2006 first round draft picks of Mike Patterson (31st overall) and Broderick Bunkley (14th overall) having solidified their starting positions on the interior line, Abiamiri is expected to be the last missing piece to complete the defensive line puzzle.

Abiamiri's Stats and Measurables

Standing at 6'4" and weighing in at 267-pounds, Abiamiri is a long armed physical presence that should be able to fill all of the duties of an NFL defensive end as both a run stopper and effective pass rusher.

A few extra pounds wouldn't hurt, but Abiamiri is a physical specimen that is stronger than his weight might indicate and his combination of explosiveness and power should work well for him assuming he wins the starting job.

In his junior and senior years at Notre Dame, Abiamiri recorded 90 tackles, 30 for losses and 18 sacks. He ran a 4.77 second 40 yard dash at his pro day workout and bench pressed 225-pounds 26 times. His explosion is evidenced in his impressive broad jump of 10' 4".

Abiamiri started one game in his rookie season and none last year. He suited up 10 times in 2008 and was fairly productive with limited opportunity recording two sacks, a forced fumble and three passes defensed. More importantly, he just looked the part and appeared ready to make a bigger contribution.

Abiamiri's 2009 Outlook

The Eagles coaching staff is ready to see Abiamiri step up and be another big time player on the line. They have declared on open competition between him and returning starter Juqua Parker. All logic points to the coach's desire to see young Abiamiri winning the job.

Chris Clemons will be making a push for the position as well, but he will more than likely be fighting to retain his role as a pass rushing specialist on third and long situations.

Jim Johnson may be passing the torch to Sean McDermott, but his philosophy of keeping the legs fresh in the trenches and on the edges, particularly on pass rushing downs will not likely change. Players like Darren Howard, Dan Klecko, and Chris Clemons have all had success getting after the passer and will certainly get some game time.

Bryan Smith is a name that should be in the mix in 2009 as well. He didn't play a down in the 2008 regular season after looking good in his preseason game repetitions.

Still, Abiamiri has the prospects of being an every down defensive end and should see the majority of the time on the field. I would expect him to rack up around 40 or 50 tackles with a dozen or more stuffs in the backfield as well as lingering in the neighborhood of 10 sacks.

Most importantly, Abiamiri can balance the presence of Trent Cole and take full advantage of the double teams on that side of the line. With two complete ends and the interior line of Bunkley and Patterson continuing to emerge, the Eagles will have a formidable and potentially elite front four.

While Juqua Parker has been solid, Abiamiri has the prospect of being a dominant player. Look for Abiamiri to have a breakout season and be an X-factor for the 2009 Eagles defense.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net.

Current features: Unsung Eagles from the Buddy Ryan/Rich Kotite era and more.

An Eagles' Fan Perspective on the Giants Rivalry Games of 2009

Leo Pizzini — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 01:23:23 -0400

The Giants were not the same in the final quarter of 2008 as they finished their season without Plaxico Burress, but in fairness, his sudden long term departure left Tom Coughlin little opportunity to adjust his game plan.

While the Eagles now match up better against the Giants without Plaxico, the remainder of the team is in tact, improved and still a major force to be reckoned with. Coughlin has also had plenty of time to derive a new strategy to compensate for a Plaxico-less 2009 season.

Defending the Giants Running Attack

Despite my passion for the Eagles, I felt it was an undeniable truth, in that we had no answer for the Giants offensive machine when trying to cover Burress and stop Brandon Jacobs. It was a painful realization.

When Plaxico went down, I immediately smelled the vulnerability of the division rivals from the great City of New York who call New Jersey home. That was an unfortunate turn of events for the Giants that justifiably gave many Eagles' fans new hope.

One of our keys to stopping the Giants ground game was our defensive hero, Brian Dawkins. When he crowded the box he was very effective in playing smash-mouth football with the bruising Brandon Jacobs throughout his career.

Even in Dawkins absence, I expect the safeties to do a solid job against Jacobs. Both Sean Jones and Quintin Mikell are players that are proven run stoppers from the safety position. Although no player can replace Dawkins, these guys can step up in the box and lay a hit on a player of Brandon Jacobs stature.

They will need to fill that role for the Eagles to consistently stop the big man when it matters most.

The young defensive line and linebacking group should also be expected to step up with another seasons worth of experience and maturity under their belts. They will be even stingier against the run and in coverage than they were in the second half of the 2008 season. That should take some pressure off of the safeties need to step up in run stop situations.

The Eagles do have the tools to stop Brandon Jacobs. That statement remains easier said than done. The Giants dominant offensive line and aggressive fullback, Madison Hedgecock, will do their best to clear the way for Jacobs, but the Eagles were very effective in controlling the line of scrimmage against the G-men in their last two contests of 2008.

Defending the Giants Passing Attack

Eli Manning may not be an elite NFL quarterback, but he can clearly get the job done and has a history of rising to the ocassion. Even without his best weapon, the Giants remain an aerial threat with the addition of some nice NFL ready talent at wide receiver.

By way of the 2009 draft, the Giants acquired receivers Hakeem Nicks and Ramsees Barden.

Nicks may not have the same skill set as Plaxico, but nonetheless, he is a viable weapon for Eli Manning in 2009. He's a hard runner with good size, hands and quickness and is just an overall impressive receiver.

Ramsees Barden is a very tall receiver that could replace Burress in the dreaded jump ball scenario that Eli Manning and the Giants used to burn the Eagles in several clutch moments over the years.

Aside from the rookies, returning veteran receivers, Steve Smith and Domenik Hixon also deserve respect. Both of these players made solid 2008 contributions.

Smith is a very nice possession receiver and Hixon showed great vision and speed getting behind the elite defensive backs of the Eagles on several occasions. Fortunately for the Eagles, he let a big opportunity slip through his fingers in the very close playoff contest at a clutch moment.

The Eagles can't afford to depend on that.

The Giants offense may no longer seem indefensible, but the Eagles can ill-afford to take the loss of Plaxico Burress as a compensatory indictment of ineptitude regarding the New York passing attack.

Eli still has weapons.

In the end, the Eagles should be able to effectively defend the Giants attack and give the offense the opportunity to win the game. Nothing will come easy, but the Eagles defense will be impressive and more effective against what appears to be a slightly diminshed Giants' offensive unit in 2009.

Putting Up Points Against an Elite Giants' Defense.

The only way to have consistent offensive success against the Giants is to get them off balance and exploit their only perceivable weakness which is their secondary and arguably the linebackers.

Corey Webster is one of the most underrated cornerbacks in the NFL yielding one of the lowest average-per-catch statistics. Still, the secondary is suspect, sustaining some key losses including R.W. McQuarters.

If Donovan McNabb can work his way into the game slowly with some run support and high percentage passing, he should be able to find success in connecting with his talented receivers, tight ends and running backs.

McNabb will need time to get the ball to his targets and that is no easy task against one of the best pass rushes in the NFL.

With the acclaimed enhancements to the offensive line and blocking back positions, the Eagles are expected to do a better job in pass protection and in opening up running room for a presumably rehabilitated Brian Westbrook who figures to be in elite game shape by the start of the season.

Jason Peters and Shawn Andrews should match-up well against the best defensive end tandem in the NFL in Jason Tuck and returning superstar, Osi Umenyiora. The Giants ends will make their plays, but the stout offensive line of the Eagles should do a better job than most in containing the aforementioned stand out players.

The addition of Chris Canty to the interior line will once again make the Giants the most imposing front four in the NFL.

Fortunately for the Eagles, they have five pro-bowl prospects on their offensive line and great depth to go along with the starters. Nobody will have a field day running against the Giants, but if Westbrook can stay healthy, he will be running behind fullback Leonard Weaver as opposed to Dan Klecko--expect much better production from the running game even against the mighty Giants.

The Eagles have the right mix of weapons to have success against the Giants and moreover fill the duties and prerequisites of running a complete Andy Reid playbook more than ever before.

Game, Division, Conference and Season Predictions

The games will be too close to call from analyzing the rosters on paper alone, but based on the 2008 contests, the Eagles finally have an answer for the Giants on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.

I think it's fair to give the edge to the Eagles at this point. That conclusion remains less than scientific, but the Eagles addressed their shortcomings from 2008 in a very big way after squeaking out two close wins in crunch time games against the favored rivals.

The games will be exciting and worthy of the rivalry in 2009 with a finality that can't unequivocally be rendered. The Giants and Eagles look to challenge each other for the division and conference on the road to a superbowl run.

The Cowboys and Redskins remain division challengers not to be overlooked either and they will attempt to play the role of spoiler for the highly touted favorites.

I invite all appropriate discussion and disagreement with an eager ear and open mind.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net.

Current features: Unsung Eagles from the Buddy Ryan/Rich Kotite era and more.

Jeremy Jarmon Is a Washington Redskin

Leo Pizzini — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:47:57 -0400

The Washington Redskins scored the only player selected in the 2009 supplemental draft, Jeremy Jarmon, a defensive end from Kentucky.

At 6'3" and 276 pounds, Jarmon is a big physical presence that might be able to step in and produce at the NFL level.

He was not allowed to return for his senior season in one of the most unfair rulings regarding the NCAA's banned substance policy. He denied any intent to use the supplement to "cheat" and has never before had trouble with legal or NCAA policies.

Jarmon should provide even more value to the already enhanced defensive line of the Washington Redskins, as he joins newcomers Brian Orakpo and Albert Haynesworth.

The Eagles were also interested in Jarmon and it is unclear if the Redskins trumped their blind bid and if so to what degree, but the Skins surrendered a 2010 third round draft choice for his services. Both teams held private workouts with him.

In his pro day, Jarmon ran a 4.76 second 40-yard dash and benched 225 pounds 19 times. He was impressive in his positional exercises and overall agility measures.

Jarmon is anticipated to play defensive end as he did at Kentucky, with the ability to slide inside to a tackle position.

At Kentucky, he racked up 17 sacks in three seasons and was an imposing player. He was thought to be a high round draft pick in the 2010 NFL draft.

More Analysis on Jeremy Jarmon and the Eagles from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net.

Why Kevin Curtis Isn't the Eagles' Best Option To Start at Wide Receiver

Leo Pizzini — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 21:01:02 -0400

Despite my gut instinct, I have to admit that I didn't have the courage to make this statement until Eagles aficionado, Tommy Lawlor, scribed a similar question regarding Kevin Curtis' 2007 production. I haven't been biting my tongue, but I have reserved my writing.

I've been thinking this way prior to the Eagles drafting of Jeremy Maclin, but now the deal is sealed in my mind, and I can no longer withhold my feelings. The point is not to belittle Kevin Curtis' contributions or skills, but rather to make a case for the best receiver to be on the field in their best position.

Curtis caught 77 passes for 1,110 yards and six touchdowns in 2007. He is the first and only Eagles' receiver to produce over 1,000 yards since Terrell Owens in 2004. I appreciate what he did for the team that season, but those statistics are considerably anomalous and misleading.

In 2007, 20 percent of Curtis' yards and 50 percent of his touchdowns came in one game against the terrible Detroit Lions defense. He never dominated like that again. His other three scores and biggest games came against the Jets, the Seahawks and the Saints—none of whom boasted strong secondaries that season.

Curtis had three 100-yard-plus performances against the Lions, Jets and Seahawks. Fortunately for Curtis' numbers in the Jets game, he scored on a 75-yard pass that occurred as the result of a missed tackle (the defender essentially fell down).

I would argue that Curtis' 2007 production was more of a credit to Donovan McNabb's abilities and determination along with opportunities to match up with weak secondaries.

I'm obviously not saying the Eagles should cut Curtis, I'm just observing that he's not a natural wide receiver (note the word "wide") and the Eagles now have players to fill that role.

Consider this—who else could McNabb have targeted in '07?

Prior to the draft, I was resolute in my desire to see Hank Baskett starting at wide receiver opposite of DeSean Jackson. I never understood why Reid didn't give Baskett playing time in 2007, or why he didn't get an opportunity to field more game time repetitions in 2008.

Hank Baskett has been one of the most consistent producers at wide receiver on a per play basis. He offers great size and big play ability. He would also be a fantastic complement to DeSean Jackson's skill set. Speaking with former Eagles defensive end, Hugh Douglas last season on 610 WIP, we agreed on Baskett's consistency and under-utilization.

Baskett is more of a natural wide receiver than Kevin Curtis. Read my analysis of Hank Baskett (also available on eagles.sportsscribes.net).

He has the speed (4.5-second 40), the size (6'4", 220 pounds) and the vertical leaping ability (39.5", 7' high jumper). He can fight off of defenders with his strength, fight for the ball in the air, and requires less separation to be open because of his height and the associated science known as line of sight.

The draft has since impacted my thinking.

It's bittersweet for me to crown Jeremy Maclin with the starting receiver position over my beloved Baskett and Curtis. Nonetheless, it's time for Maclin to shine in 2009.

The myth of rookies not producing at wide receiver is just that—a myth. Most of the top receivers in the NFL, especially those drafted in the first round, have had excellent rookie seasons. This fact is even more true when rookie receivers are paired with veteran quarterbacks.

At Mizzou, Maclin was sensational, outproducing Michael Crabtree in his senior year. He lined up all over the field and with every touch, Maclin threatened to score. Read my analysis of Jeremy Maclin (also available on eagles.sportsscribes.net).

So what should Andy Reid do with Curtis?

Curtis is at his best working out of the slot, his original position. He could easily produce Wes Welker-like results with players like DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin split out wide, as they will demand the attention of the defensive secondaries.

With a standard three-receiver formation of Jackson, Maclin, and Curtis, Donovan McNabb would have more game breaking options than he has ever had. These receivers all have the potential to turn shorter, high percentage passes into breakaway gains.

Still, Jason Avant was a great slot receiver for the Eagles in 2008. He is not a game breaking threat, but his physical nature and sure handedness makes him a great possession receiver in the clutch.

While I am avidly in opposition of the junior football philosophy of platooning wide receivers in the NFL, I would consider a situational rotation of Curtis and Avant in the slot as reasonable.

With Maclin, Jackson, Curtis, Avant, and Baskett all figuring to be worthy of starting at the NFL level, I have tried to draw a best-use scenario for these receivers.

I've done so by completely ignoring Reggie Brown, who I can't help but feel is still a quality player. Eagles fans completely disregarded an amazing catch that he made against the Redskins when he landed inches short of the goal line as the seconds ran off of the clock in the vigorously-contested loss. Despite coming up short, the effort was fantastic, and the catch was even more impressive.

Brown may have battled injury last season, but he still has some game left in him, and he has been effective in previous years. In training camp, he will be fighting for a job against rookie prospect Brandon Gibson, a player not often mentioned. Gibson was considered a second-round prospect in the 2008 draft before returning to Washington for his senior season.

To conclude my rant, I believe the best trio that Andy Reid could put on the field would be DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and Hank Baskett with all three rotating in and out of the slot.

Rotating Curtis with Avant on third-down passing plays in four receiver sets and spread formations would optimize McNabb's receiving arsenal when a clutch play from the receivers is needed and splitting out Brent Celek or Cornelius Ingram doesn't offer enough speed.

It's going to be a difficult decision for Andy Reid to make heading into 2009. I can only hope that he sticks with his depth chart and that the Baltimore and Cincinnati games shed some light on the destructive nature of platooning receivers on the quarterback-to-receiver rhythm and chemistry.

Feel free to disagree. In the end, I would love nothing more than to see Kevin Curtis prove me wrong and post a huge season. This is the best problem the Eagles could have as long as it does not cause a distraction.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net.

Current features: Unsung Eagles from the Buddy Ryan/Rich Kotite era and more.

Linebacker Byron Evans: One of the Eagles' All-Time Greats

Leo Pizzini — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 17:36:56 -0400

Part of a long tradition of great Eagles' inside linebackers, Byron Evans, is unquestionably the most underrated Eagle at that position ever. Chuck Bednarik, Bill Bergey, Jeremiah Trotter and Stewart Bradley all deserve their high praise, but so does Evans so here it comes.

Byron should be known at least for his all-time great touchdown celebration, known as the "Beanie-Wiggle." If you have never seen him shake his stuff, click here.

More seriously, Evans was a key member of the vaunted "Gang Green Defense" of the late '80s and early '90s. It was the play of the defensive line that really stole the thunder. Guys like Reggie White, Jerome Brown and Clyde Simmons are some of the greatest to ever play their positions.

Seth Joyner and William Thomas were great linebackers in that era as well but Byron Evans locked down the middle linebacker position and is deserving of more credit than he received.

Evans embodied Eagles' football of that era and played his entire eight year career in Kelly Green, never earning a pro-bowl berth although he easily deserved a few.

YEAR	TCK	SCK	INT	TD	FF	FR	TD
1987	25	0	1	0	0	1	0
1988	47	0	0	0	0	2	0
1989	184	2	3	0	0	3	0
1990	112	1	1	1	0	0	0
1991	111	0	2	0	0	2	0
1992	175	0	4	0	0	0	0
1993	109	0	1	0	3	3	1
1994	43	0.5	1	0	1	1	0
Career	806	3.5	13	1	4	12	1

His 184 tackles, three interceptions, and three fumble recoveries in 1989 seem pro-bowl caliber as does his 1992 production of 175 tackles and 4 interceptions. Plus, the guy was just fun to watch. He made great plays, had a nose for the ball and really anchored the linebackers on one of the greatest defenses in NFL history.

Evans did earn second team all-NFL honors in 1990 and 1992.

As his statistics indicate, Evans was a great tackler. Tommy Lawlor of Fan-demonium commented on his memory of Byron Evans which I thought really summed up the kind of player he was:

"The thing that pops in my mind with Evans is his long arms. I can always see him in his stance with his arms dangling ... He was an outstanding wrap-up tackler, but the arms also helped in pass defense. "

He was unquestionably a leader on the field and became the Eagles defensive signal caller in 1988 and the defensive captain the following season. Considering the defense he played for, those are pretty high accolades.

Evans told Jim Gehman of PhiladelphiaEagles.com, "To be named one of the captains, you had to trust the person and really believe in what they were doing. They believed that you were a leader and that made me feel real good."

One of the most challenging defensive systems in NFL history was Buddy Ryan's 46 Bear and Byron Evans was the master of the most dynamic role in the system which demonstrates his versatile athleticism and intelligence.

In a 2008 interview with Jim Gehman of PhiladelphiaEagles.com, Evans commented on Ryan's defensive system.

"It was very complicated, probably one of the most complex defenses of all time, but it wasn't intimidating. I think more than anything, I was surrounded by a good bunch of guys who were willing to go the extra mile and help me out and really give me the confidence boost that I needed. If I studied, I could make it happen."

His career was unfortunately cut short in a devastating injury that occurred during a tackle of the Cleveland Brown's bruising running back Leroy Hoard. Evans broke his leg and tore his MCL in one play. When Evans went down, it kind of felt like the end of an era to me.

For those who never experienced the gang green defense, I recall it as one of the most incredible things I can remember in Philadelphia sports history. In the middle of it all was another unsung Eagle, 6'2" and 235 pounds of Byron Evans, one of the all-time Philadelphia Eagles' great players.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net.

Current features: Brian Westbrook, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, Cornelius Ingram, Victor Harris, Brent Celek and Hank Baskett...next up...unsung Eagles from the Buddy Ryan/Rich Kotite era.

Eight Offensive Play-Calling Changes Andy Reid Should Consider for 2009

Leo Pizzini — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:56:34 -0400

In general, Andy Reid does a great job managing all of his duties as the Philadelphia Eagles' head coach and Head of Football Operations. He designs fantastic plays that underline his offensive creativity and has been outstanding in roster management.

Eagles fans would still be very excited to see more back-to-basics fundamentals mixed in with the exotic play calling. The players on the roster should be expected to carry a heavy load with talent alone, and dominate by just playing hard-nosed football.

Here are eight things that Eagles fans just didn't get enough of in 2008.

8. Less Rotation and More Rhythm with the Receivers

McNabb has been regarded as a streaky quarterback, and to a large extent there is truth in that analysis. However, his consistency (like that of all quarterbacks) is predicated on the common understanding of expectation and improvisation between himself and the receivers.

In the darkest hours of the Eagles 2008 season (Baltimore and Cincinnati), Andy was feeling out his options at receiver and rotated receiving packages almost every drive. McNabb was left with a less instinctual passing reaction, as he was not fully intonated with the offensive sets.

Accordingly, he forced plays and suffered the consequences.

7. More Split-Backs

The Eagles have two backs with receiver-quality skills that can pick up blitzes, run routes under the coverage, and perform standard running back duties. They're the perfect compliment to the deep-threat receivers DeSean Jackson, Kevin Curtis, Jeremy Maclin, Hank Baskett and Reggie Brown.

Split-back sets provided some of the best repeatable offensive plays in 2008. In Andy's scheme it's a perfect fit.

6. Work McNabb into the Game Slowly

McNabb is a phenomenal quarterback, but he needs time to find his groove and Andy oftentimes just throws him to the wolves. He needs to get his feet comfortable and set in the pocket before he finds his touch.

Shorter quick passes to start the game and first-down running will help McNabb relax, find his rhythm, and then dissect the secondary.

5. More Pump-and-Go Option Routes

Every cornerback bites on a pump-and-go after getting drawn in on short curl routes and screen passes. If the corners and safeties don't start tightening their coverage on the short routes, the Eagles receivers are explosive enough to eventually break one of those plays or just systematically drive the field with quick short passes.

A little more sandlot football will go a long way. McNabb plays his best when he is having fun.

4. More Five-Yard Quick Slants and Short Curls

For a west coast offense, the Eagles don't run enough short plays to the receivers. I've seen too many first down pass attempts in the 15 to 20 yard range. The idea is to draw the coverage forward so McNabb can catch them playing tight, then go up top.

With the addition of Jeremy Maclin, the Eagles have three legitimate receivers that can take a five-yard completion and break it for a long score. Defenses can cover them long or short, but they can't do both.

3. Play Action Passing

This is a must. Opposing defenses don't fear the play action because the Eagles don't run enough on traditional running downs. Setting up play action with solid running behind their new mauling offensive line will draw the safeties forward and open up big play opportunities in the secondary.

McNabb executes a fantastic and under-utilized play action that could set up a quick dump-off pass out from the pocket, a roll-out pass, or a designed scramble to the sideline.

2. Give McNabb the Reigns in the Two-Minute Offense

With two minutes left, the offense needs to flow. Andy needs to trust his franchise quarterback to move the ball and pick apart the defense. With the knowledge he has acquired of the defense over the course of the game, and the experience he has amassed during his long career, McNabb has the tools to get the job done.

The greatest teams have had exceptional two-minute offenses that were led on the field by the quarterback. Any two-minute concepts that Andy wants to see executed should be installed in practice, not game time, with very limited exception.

1. Running on First Down from I-Form

This is a no-brainer. The offense finds its consistency when they run on first down. Whether it works or not, opposing defenses must respect the threat of Brian Westbrook, and when they do, it's time to change it up with play action, a short, quick play to the receivers, or for the coupe-de-gras, an outright fly or pump-and-go.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net/

Current features: Brian Westbrook, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, Cornelius Ingram, Victor Harris, Brent Celek and Hank Baskett.

Eagles Split-Back Case Study: No Need to Platoon Running Backs

Leo Pizzini — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:30:08 -0400

Brian Westbrook is one of the most dangerous players that could ever be on a football field. LeSean McCoy figures to be a second coming of the same basic skill set.

How can the Eagles utilize both players?

NFL teams have recently migrated to a very logical two-back system to preserve the health and minimize injury to their star backs. Every team is working with a "two-headed monster" of some sort, but does the contemporary model work out?

An injury doesn't care about anything. It doesn't require more than one play. It doesn't require player fatigue. Injuries have no prerequisites.

All of the practice repetitions combine with playing time and age to wear a player down. Reps are reps. Some guys are tougher than others and play with more pain while others are unfortunate in taking the hit that ends their career.

If I'm playing, I don't want to be taken out because of injury worries. Coaches can't tell when a player is about to do something great or suffer an injury.

In fact, I want to play out an entire drive. The most exploitable opportunities are recognized after working through a series of plays, sometimes after recurring failures.

While Westbrook may be wearing down, a career-ending injury could happen on any play. That doesn't mean play him less. He can still play right now, maybe not tomorrow and maybe not with a football play as a career-ending cause.

You can only bake a cake when the oven is hot and Westbrook's element will only produce heat for a few more years.

I don't suggest pounding Westbrook with 30 carries per game and running him until his wheels fall off as that would be irresponsible. I have an alternate suggestion for a two-back system that the Eagles have used with great success in the past.

Split-backs are the answer.

With the stable of receiver-quality running backs on the Eagles roster, a base split-back formation would enable the Birds endless motion-based formation shifts that would completely keep defenses off balance.

In 2008, one of the Eagles' best plays was a fake hand-off to the left or right and a pitch to the other back in the other direction from a split-back formation. Against a team like the Cardinals, whose linebackers attack almost exclusively downhill, that type of misdirection will destroy the defensive scheme.

Split-backs with LeSean McCoy and Brian Westbrook would increase the sale of ibuprofen to opposing defenses and coordinators.

How do you cover both of those guys in the flats with speedy game breaking receivers like DeSean Jackson, Kevin Curtis, Jeremy Maclin, and even Hank Baskett or Reggie Brown who can get down the field with a quickness?

Leonard Weaver is another split-back option who could lead block on a sweep, break a pass play from the flats, motion to tight end (his high school position), or do any of a myriad of creative things for the offense.

The Eagles in a split-back formation offer rushing opportunities with misdirection, power sweeps, quick-pitches outside, draws inside, additional pass blocking, better check down options, and dynamic motion formation shifts.

All of this while keeping the backs on the field and in the rhythm of the game without irresponsibly compromising their running back's health. The star backs can stay on the field as a decoy, ball carrier, receiver, or blocker.

I was somewhat stunned to see the success of the split-back formation with Buckhalter and Westbrook under-utilized in Andy Reid's 2008 offensive play calling. In almost every instance, the misdirection plays opened up great running opportunities for the backs.

LeSean McCoy and Brian Westbrook in the backfield as a base formation with the occasional rotation of Leonard Weaver or Lorenzo Booker will be a nearly unstoppable dynamic that Andy Reid should embrace more often in 2009.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net/

Current features: Brian Westbrook, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, Cornelius Ingram, Victor Harris, Brent Celek and Hank Baskett.

How Brian Westbrook Will Silence Critics Again and Make Eagles History

Leo Pizzini — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:35:39 -0400

Brian Westbrook is closing in on the all-time Philadelphia Eagles' rushing record. He needs just 817 rushing yards to lay claim to the title. Regardless of the final statistics, Westbrook has secured his position in the hearts of the contemporary Philadelphia loyalists as the all-time greatest back in Eagles history.

There have been many great Eagles' running backs from Steve Van Buren and Timmy Brown to Wilbert Montgomery, Hershel Walker, Ricky Watters, and Duce Staley.

In the end, there can only be one all-time rushing leader.

Steve Van Buren, an NFL Legend and Philadelphia Eagles All-Time Great

Steve Van Buren is arguably the greatest Eagles running back of all-time. Van Buren was the NFL's all-time leading rusher with 5,860 yards and 69 touchdowns when he retired in 1951 after an eight year career (12 game seasons). He played for two NFL Championship Eagles teams in 1948 and 1949.

Van Buren earned all-pro honors five times in his career.

Wilbert Montgomery, the Philadelphia Eagles All-Time Leading Rusher

Wilbert Montgomery broke Van Buren's mark in 1983, laying claim to the Philadelphia rushing title in a season where he started only one game. Perhaps it was a bit of an anticlimactic season for such an accomplishment. Nonetheless, it was a well-deserved accolade for a beloved Eagle who clinched the Eagles' first ever Super Bowl appearance by breaking the backs of the rival Dallas Cowboys in the 1980 NFC Championship.

In 1979, his best season, Montgomery rushed for 1,512 yards. He earned pro bowl berths in 1978 and 1979, and retired with 6,538 yards rushing as an Eagle.

Brian Westbrook's Place in Philadelphia Eagles History

Heading into his eighth season as an Eagle, Westbrook has 5,721 yards rushing and boasts a 4.7 yard career average per carry. He needs 817 more yards on the ground to become the Eagles' all-time leading rusher.

In 2008, Westbrook increased his yards-from-scrimmage tally to 9,330 (the best mark in franchise history), surpassing Harold Carmichael's franchise record of 9,042. With just 670 more yards, he will cross a new milestone—10,000 yards from scrimmage.

The doubters and critics are coming out of the woodwork. Pessimism regarding Westbrook's multiple off-season surgeries (ankle and knee) have cast some doubt on his ability to perform at the same high level.

I will urge all true Westbrook enthusiasts to dismiss their concerns and remember the toughness and work ethic that Westbrook has displayed throughout his career. His knee looked good in the OTAs so bury that issue.

The timing of the ankle surgery is unsettling, but the rehab has already begun, and the procedure to remove the bone spurs was minor and represented no serious material damage to any tendons or ligaments above the level of a sprain.

Westbrook will be feeling great coming into 2009, and with the help of LeSean McCoy, Leonard Weaver, and a new look offensive line made of pure maulers, he could be poised to have one of his best seasons yet.

I expect Westbrook to put up over 1,000 yards on the ground and 1,500 yards from scrimmage in 2009.

He will become the all-time leading rusher in Eagles' history this year.

More Analysis from Leo Pizzini at: http://eagles.sportsscribes.net/

Current features: Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, Cornelius Ingram, Victor Harris, Brent Celek and Hank Baskett.

One of the All-Time Philadelphia Eagles Greats: "Arkansas" Fred Barnett

Leo Pizzini — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 23:33:45 -0400

Fred Barnett did some very impressive things on the hard, unenviable playing surface at Veterans Stadium from 1990 until 1996. He consistently produced on a team that had little focus on the offense, especially the wide receivers

In High School, Barnett did not play until his senior year out of respect for his mother's concerns for his health and safety.

At Arkansas State, the same alma mater as Philadelphia legend Bill Bergey, Fred Barnett caught national attention and in 1990 the Eagles drafted Barnett in the third round.

Barnett played at 200 lbs. and stands at 6'0". I can't recall his exact workout measurables coming out of college, but I believe he ran a sub 4.5 second forty yard dash. I know he had an incredible vertical leap, which I believe measured 44" to 46".

His leaping ability and speed were obvious in his big play nature and aerobatic catches. Barnett made fantastic plays along the sidelines, leaping over defenders and fighting for balls and opportunities all over the field.

Here's a statistical summary of what Barnett did during his tenure in Philadelphia and throughout his eight-year career:


Year	Tm	Rec	Yds	Avg	TD	Lng
1990	PHI	36	721	20.0	8	95
1991	PHI	62	948	15.3	4	75
1992*	PHI	67	1083	16.2	6	71
1993	PHI	17	170	10.0	0	21
1994	PHI	78	1127	14.4	5	54
1995	PHI	48	585	12.2	5	33
6 yrs	PHI	308	4634	15.0	28	95
2 yrs	MIA	53	728	13.7	4	66
Career		361	5362	14.9	32	95

Barnett was sensational in his 1990 rookie season. He provided an offensive spark along with fellow rookie Calvin Williams that was definitely missing since Mike Quick had been in his prime.

Barnett scored eight touchdowns and averaged 20 yards per reception on 36 catches.

In 1991, Barnett continued to improve even as aging Jim McMahon, Jeff Kemp, and Brad Goebel filled in for the injured Randall Cunningham.

In 1992 with Cunningham's return, Barnett recorded his first 1,000 yard season and only pro bowl selection.

A knee injury ended Barnett's 1993 campaign early, and he was snubbed of a second pro bowl appearance and comeback player of the year award in 1994, when he tallied his career best numbers in receptions and yardage.

In six defensive oriented seasons with the Eagles, Barnett became the fifth all-time leading receiver for the franchise.

All statistics aside, Barnett was exciting.

He made big plays in clutch moments and he did it with tasteful style. Without a doubt, his 95 yard touchdown in his rookie season was one of the most remarkable plays in Eagles history.

On third and 14 from their own five yard line, the offensive line broke down true to form.

At the tail end of magically ducking Bruce Smith and making some other fancy gumby-like moves in the end zone to avoid an apparent safety, Randall Cunningham rolled out, and, from five yards deep in his own end zone, heaved a ball to the fifty yard line to a covered Fred Barnett.

Barnett ripped the ball down and away from the defender and completed the miracle by converting the reception into a 95 yard jaw-dropping touchdown.

On PhiladelphiaEagles.com, Barnett shared his memory of that play:

"The play called for me to run a clear route, or a 'go route' to clear the middle of the field," Barnett recalled.

"I ran 60 yards and actually stopped. When I saw Randall come out of a pile, he started pointing to me.

"So I kept running and literally saw the ball appear from out of the sky. When I jumped to get the ball my defender fell down and I scored. But that play didn't surprise me because Randall had the athletic ability to come up with anything."

That was the most remarkable play I have ever witnessed as an Eagles enthusiast, but Barnett had already won-me-over (the first Eagles jersey I bought was No. 86—Fred Barnett), and he continued to make dazzling plays throughout his career in Philadelphia that sealed his legacy as one of the great receivers in Eagles history.

I can also remember an amazing leaping catch against the Saints in 1992 (if memory serves), in the front corner of the end zone.

Barnett went airborne, high jumper style, cleared the defender and six feet or so in the air while parallel to the ground, reached back, and snatched the ball as he plummeted into the end zone—amazing.

Those are the kinds of plays that football heroes are made of.

When the Eagles needed someone to make a play, Barnett was one of the guys that teammates and fans could depend on not letting them down.

He was also a guy that would turn an inch into a mile. Barnett could exploit running room with great vision and speed on the field. He could go all-the-way at any time.

In 2005, Gary Kravitz of PhiladelphiaEagles.com interviewed the then 38-year-old Barnett, who claimed he was still running sub 4.5 second 40 yard dash times, and that he could still beat a bump-and-run.

Barnett seemed serious about wanting to play football opposite Terrell Owens and Reid.

Probably should have given him a call.

Barnett was working out to compete in the Penn Relays at that time.

He also talked about the pressure that Buddy Ryan put on him and his fellow receivers as he recalled a classic line from the no-nonsense coach, "catch the ball or you're fired."

Fred Barnett played with the kind of heart that Philadelphia responds to, and, in acknowledgement of that simple truth, Barnett said, "if you play in Philly, you better produce and make plays...if we lost I would be in tears...I know what this sport means to the City of Philadelphia...that's why I feel I had a great relationship with the fans because I played Eagles football with a passion."

Could anything be more true?

Barnett's class transcended football. His philanthropy and commitment to the Philadelphia area should make him a legend in and of itself.

One Of The Great Players in Philadelphia Eagles History: Keith Byars

Leo Pizzini — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:44:51 -0400

It's time to show some love for former Eagles' running back Keith Byars.

He will never get the respect he deserves because he came out of college as a highly rated running back and he did not have the same conventional statistics in the NFL as he did at Ohio State.

But Byars was more like a tight end that lined up in the backfield.

Keith Byars was really an amazing player to watch on a very fun Philadelphia Eagles team. Nothing was very conventional about the Eagles in that era and in form, one never knew what to expect from Byars.

At Ohio State, Byars dominated the football field as a running back and a kick returner.

In 1984 he was runner up to Doug Flutie for the Heisman trophy.

In 1985 he broke his foot and reinjured it two more times that season as he prematurely returned to the field. He had several corrective surgeries and his foot was never quite the same.

Prior to his first draft, cagey Buddy Ryan called Keith Byars a "medical reject" to throw off the NFL war rooms and never worked him out or spoke with Byars.

Ryan called Byars when the Eagles 10th overall selection came up and simply said, "I'm drafting you."--to the surprise of everyone, including Byars.

Despite his foot injury, Byars found a great role with the Eagles. He did just about everything. He played running back, full back, tight end and lined up as a slot wide receiver. He threw the ball, he made one handed catches and he decleated would be tacklers with some of the greatest blocks in NFL history.

In 2004, Jim Gehman of PhiladelphiaEagles.com interviewed Byars about what his versatile role in the offense was like.

Byars said, "The way our offense was structured, we didn't have wholesale changes like they do now.... A lot of times we would go to our four wide receiver package with me and Keith Jackson out there. We would just do it, it was no problem... Most wide receivers don't like to catch the ball inside the numbers, so me and Keith would take a lot of those passes. It was a lot of fun."

Here's a look at what Byars did statistically as Eagle:

	Rushing			Receiving			Passing
Year	Att	Yds	TD	Rec	Yds	TD	Cmp	Att	Cmp%	Yds	TD
1986	177	577	1	11	44	0	1	2	50	55	1
1987	116	426	3	21	177	1	0	0	0	0	0
1988	152	517	6	72	705	4	0	2	0	0	0
1989	133	452	5	68	721	0	0	0	0	0	0
1990	37	141	0	81	819	3	4	4	100	53	4
1991	94	383	1	62	564	3	0	2	0	0	0
1992	41	176	1	56	502	2	0	1	0	0	0
	750	2672	17	371	3532	13	5	11	45%	108	5

Keith Byars 1988 effort was statistically his best season, but in the 1990 season he became more effective as the prime receiving target of quarterback Randall Cunningham.

In 1990, Byars also completed four out of four passes for four touchdowns--perfection. He threw five touchdown passes with the Eagles and six in his career.

I remember a play where Byars picked a wild pass out of the hands of an opposing cornerback that was already running for a pick-six. I've never seen anything like that. The cornerback was literally in the middle of embracing the ball and Byars just went "wooop, I'll take that..." with a slight of hand magic trick kind of thing.

Byars finished his 13 NFL seasons with 8,770 yards from scrimmage and 54 touchdowns. He played for the Eagles for seven years. He also played for the Dolphins, Patriots and Jets.

He added a dynamic to football, not just the Eagles. He was a worthy adversary of the best defenders in the NFL.

Byars didn't make the pro bowl until 1993 when he was a Dolphin. His performance that season was a very standard year for Byars and his pro bowl selection was a greater representation of his body of work in Philadelphia from 1986 through 1992 along with his 1993 season in Miami.

If Byars had been considered a tight end along with Keith Jackson, his receiving numbers alone would have garnered more respect. He had the complete package to play the tight end position and at 6'1" and 245 pounds, Byars could block, catch, and feel a play's natural development at an elite level.

He was also the best running back on a team that couldn't block and yielded the most sacks in the NFL almost every year.

Byars was a quality football player and is a quality person.

When asked what he was most proud of during his career, Byars said, "Giving everything I had on every play I was out there... I never took a play off; never ran out of bounds..."

PhiladelphiaEagles.com's Dave Spadaro recently spoke with former Eagles running back Keith Byars who said, "Philly was great and it is always near and dear to my heart. I loved my time there, those teams, the fans, my teammates and coaches. Every player should have the chance to play for the Eagles, for those fans. They were great."

Byars continues to be involved with football as a commentator and high school football coach.

An often overshadowed component to the success of the Philadelphia Eagles during the Buddy Ryan, Randall Cunningham and "Gang Green" era, Keith Byars can never be forgotten by the Eagles fans who watched him compete in a fierce NFC East.

NFL Quarterbacks and Offensive Skill Positions: Break-Out Names to Watch in 2009

Leo Pizzini — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:23:43 -0400

Every season there are surprises. Players who underachieved will overachieve and stars will be born. Rookies will be thrust into starting positions and exceed their developmental expectations. In 2008 running back Michael Turner burst into production with fellow Falcon Matt Ryan to create an elite offense in Atlanta. Also in 2008, veterans Phillip Rivers, Aaron Rodgers, Matt Cassell, Jay Cutler, Michael Turner, DeAngelo Williams, Thomas Jones, Steve Breaston and Vincent Jackson had break out performances. Rookies Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco, Chris Johnson, Steve Slaton, Matt Forte Pierre Thomas, Eddie Royal and DeSean Jackson all made huge impacts for their teams in 2008. There were plenty of 2008 rookies who appeared to be primed for an explosive season but fell short due to injury or circumstance. Felix Jones, Ryan Torrain and others look to capitalize on a fresh opportunity this season. Who will be the biggest surprises and statistical ground-gainers on offense in 2009? Let's take a look.

Begin Slideshow

Year Two: LB Joe Mays' Opportunity To Play for the Eagles in 2009

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 22:53:58 -0400

In the sixth round of the 2008 draft, the Philadelphia Eagles selected linebacker Joe Mays from North Dakota State University.

Mays is a guy that die-hard Eagles fans love to see on the field. He's not so big or fast but when he hits look for a flying shoe or helmet.

Linebacker Prospect Joe Mays

Joe Mays stands at 5'11" tall and weighs in at 245 pounds. The man is built like a statue chiseled from granite. He is, at times, a bit stiff in his actions, but his game is getting downhill on an appropriate angle, shedding blockers with his upper body strength, and tossing a ball carrier to the ground.

Mays has been working on his coverage in the offseason—a questioned aspect of his game.

He has said that he's improved in his ability to more effectively read a play as a pass or a run, a necessity for linebackers in the Jimmy Johnson scheme.

In coverage over the middle of the field, wide receivers need to fear Joe Mays.

Exhibit A: Limas Sweed

In the 2008 preseason, Mays delivered what the fans wanted: A warrior.

Exhibit B: Preseason Highlights

Mays does not have elite speed (about a 4.8 second 40-yard dash) but he does explode out of his stance, read the play, take solid angles, and utilize his incredible upper body strength very well.

He can sniff out and react to a run as good as anyone can.

He tackles a bit high but that is to his strength.

Once he wraps his arms around a player or a part of a player, there is not much hope for escape—he is just too strong. Ball carriers don't have a chance in Mays' grasp. He can just lift them off of their feet and throw them to the ground.

That is what he does.

Affectionately dubbed "Head Buster," Mays is a fan favorite who has the attention of the coaches and the respect of his team. He hits hard and fast, and wraps and twists slams ball carriers to the ground.

What's not to love?

At North Dakota State, Mays was the top small-school linebacker prospect recording 285 tackles during his time there. He was a Division I-AA third team All-American and his conference's defensive player of the year despite being hampered by a hip pointer. (If you have never had one, they heal well, but are very debilitating.)

Setting Role Expectations for 2009

Mays was an excellent wedge-buster in 2008. It will be interesting to see what he does without a wedge to bust in 2009.

He will definitely be expected to play a big role on special teams.

Mays does not have a viable opportunity to supplant returning middle linebacker Stewart Bradley who appears to be in control of the position for the foreseeable future.

Chris Gocong has the starting strong side linebacker position locked up as well for now.

The weak side linebacker is still an open competition although the contest is currently between Akeem Jordan and Omar Gaither.

In a recent interview on PhiladelphiaEagles.com, Mays took a cue from Omar Gaither and said he just wants to get on the field and doesn't care where.

He also said that he wants to learn all the linebacker positions and further desires to be capable of stepping in for any of them.

I still wouldn't expect to see Mays at weak side linebacker as a standard. It is a position of open field coverage in the J.J. scheme. He can cover well in the middle of the field because the receivers are coming to him. In open field coverage, Mays is unproven.

Unfortunately, I just don't see Mays starting at any position in 2009, barring an injury to a current starter, so his contribution will be limited in a pool full of young promising linebackers.

The Eagles will not likely play a 3-4 defense any time soon either.

How do Eagles fans get some "Head Buster 2009?"

Mays' talent cannot be allowed to go unexplored in some fashion and the Jimmy Johnson tradition of creative defensive packaging will likely continue in the Jimmy Johnson-Sean McDermott era.

I have to think that Mays will get time in the goal line package over Omar Gaither at some point. Mays' downhill nature fits that bill very well.

Aside from getting goal line action, Mays may find himself in a position to play in some other run-stop situations.

A good opportunity to put Mays on the field would be in their 4-3 defense at weak side linebacker in the fourth quarter when the Eagles need to stuff the run to get the ball back.

If the Eagles are too concerned about his pass coverage to play him at weak side in the aforementioned scenario, Mays could be put in the middle or the strong side and shift either Bradley or Gocong to the weak side for a more dominant run stopping 4-3.

In the long run, that may be an eventual evolution.

Hopefully Johnson and McDermott find a way to get Mays on the field in 2009 in some capacity. He is an exciting player who brings it on game day.

Mays inspires a higher level of game play from his teammates with his aggressive style.

Joe Mays is in fan demand.

Year Two: DE Bryan Smith's Opportunity To Play for the Eagles in 2009

Leo Pizzini — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:33:07 -0400

In the third round of the 2008 draft, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Bryan Smith, defensive end from Division 1-AA McNeese State. He was the 11th defensive lineman selected in that draft.

Smith is looking to prove he can bring some value to this team as he competes for a role in a very crowded meeting room for defensive ends.

Defensive End Prospect Bryan Smith

Bryan Smith stands at 6'2" and weighs in at 250 lbs. He has been trying to build more mass, but has also stated that he feels good about playing at or around 250 lbs.

Smith is a very interesting prospect.

He is conventionally undersized for an Eagles' defensive end. In fact, Chris Gocong was converted to strong side linebacker from defensive end and weighs about 265 lbs.

When being prospected, many NFL scouts figured Bryan Smith would be converted to the popular defensive-end-linebacker-hybrid in the NFL, yet he has never played a down at linebacker at any point in his football career.

He has also never played a down in an NFL regular season game.

At McNeese State, Bryan Smith was a two time Division 1-AA All-American and conference defensive player of the year. He recorded 31 sacks and 187 tackles from 2005 through 2007.

He completely dominated at that level of football and was ranked a top small school prospect along with Eagles' teammate Joe Mays.

Smith is known for his burst and straight line speed coming off of the edge and rushing the passer. At the NFL combine in 2008, Smith ran a somewhat disappointing 4.75 second forty yard dash.

He has been rumored to run in the 4.5 second range.

Setting Role Expectations for Bryan Smith in 2009

Bryan Smith doesn't appear to be getting serious consideration at any of the defensive end positions for this upcoming season. Where he fits in the mix of defensive ends is not a very clear picture for Smith.

Trent Cole has been the total package on the right end, and the coaches are really looking to Victor Abiamiri to step up and be the playmaker on the left side.

In pass rushing situations, the Eagles have found some success with Darren Howard stepping into the interior line and using sack specialist Chris Clemons as an edge rusher at left end.

Smith could find himself in the Chris Clemons role in 2009. Clemons had some success later in the season, but he also disappeared at times.

This is an excellent opportunity for Smith to come in and produce. Left end on third and long could be Smith's shot at game time if he demonstrates that he can provide more reliable pressure during the preseason.

Unfortunately for Smith, the Eagles' coaching staff is pretty happy with Clemons as they should be.

What seems obvious is that Bryan Smith needs to get some time on the field in 2009, and he claims he now has the understanding of the defensive scheme that he needs to be able to contribute.

I also can't help seeing Bryan Smith in another position besides linebacker. He appears to be formed in the raw mold of a Lawrence Taylor and Derrick Thomas.

Not to say that his expectations should be set to those kinds of hall-of-fame and greatest-ever standards, but it's fair to expect a shadow of their style of game from Smith.

There is a problem still.

In Jimmy Johnson's defensive scheme, the linebackers are critically required to do a quality job in coverage.

Omar Gaither was a former starter at middle linebacker and was bumped from the weak side linebacker position (in 2008) by Akeem Jordan, largely for his pass coverage abilities.

Chris Gocong has been progressing in his coverage, and, toward the end of last season, he fared much better in his first starting season at strong side linebacker.

Bryan Smith has no pass coverage experience, which would be most important for the weak side linebacker duties. The WILL spot is being contested primarily by Akeem Jordan and Omar Gaither.

A role for Smith may develop if Chris Gocong can't get the pressure, that is expected of him, off of the strong side on passing downs. Bryan Smith could come in to provide additional edge pressure in those situations.

I can't help but feel Gocong (in 2008) was more of a solid overall strong side linebacker than the pass rush specialist he has been billed to be.

The one unquestionable hallmark of J.J.'s defense is the intrinsic design to get players who can get to the quarterback on the field and in a position to do so.

I can imagine Johnson or interim coordinator Sean McDermott pulling Brodrick Bunkley, Victor Abiamiri, and Chris Gocong on third and long and inserting Darren Howard, Chris Clemons, and Bryan Smith on the strong side to put massive pressure on the opposing quarterback.

What if Bryan Smith Does Not Get on The Field in 2009?

In the NFL, anything can happen.

But, it's not likely that the Eagles will let Trent Cole or Victor Abiamiri walk away easily at any point.

Jaqua Parker and Chris Clemons stand a better chance of being a lower priority in the Eagles' long term plans, and Darren Howard is the oldest defensive end on the roster.

He is still playing well, but his role was limited in 2008 despite his productivity.

If Bryan Smith can survive next year's crop of defensive linemen or possibly Jeremy Jarmon in the supplemental draft, a position may open up for Smith to bump Darren Howard, Jaqua Parker, or Chris Clemons in 2010.

Brent Celek Is Going To Be a Favorite Target of McNabb in 2009

Leo Pizzini — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:33:54 -0400

If you did not know, it is a brand new era at the tight end position in Philadelphia.

McNabb has always looked to his tight ends in clutch situations—partly because he had mediocre receivers, and partly as a primal instinct.

McNabb to Lewis and pre-sports hernia L.J. Smith was a staple of the Eagles passing offense. In the 2008 regular season, the tight end was nearly invisible. In 2009, Eagles fans have a new look aerial group at tight end.

Brent Celek emerged as the starter at tight end in the playoffs last season and led the team in receptions during that period.

A familiar trend is becoming apparent and there are lots of reasons to get excited about this.

Brent Celek becomes a prospective X-factor in the Eagles offense, along with rookies Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, Cornelius Ingram, and free agent acquisition Leonard Weaver.

It has been a couple of years' worth of L.J. Smith ineffectiveness that lead the Eagles to the forward-thinking decision of passing the torch to the young Celek (aka "Magnum P.I.")

Celek doesn't have blazing speed. He runs a 4.7-second 40-yard dash, but he is elusive for his size and speed, and he runs and finishes hard. More than anything, he is an old-school prototype tight end in the vein of Chad Lewis, Jason Witten, and Chris Cooley.

Celek has nice hands and tremendous vision for the field and open space that transcend measures and statistics. This kid is a very good football player, and he produces.

"Once you get out there in a game and see some of the things you can do to a defense, you think I can do this week in and week out," Celek said. "I think I had an opportunity there and took advantage of it. I played the best that I could. There were some situations where I was in good situations and I made some decent plays. I just have to do that on a continuous basis."

McNabb now has a talented group of receivers, receiving backs and a go-to tight end that he had been missing during L.J. Smith's most recent campaigns.

Celek is going to have a better opportunity to produce than Chad Lewis, as the 2009 corps of complementary targets at receiver and out of the backfield are potentially lethal to opposing defenses.

Defenses have to take care to watch Brian Westbrook, DeSean Jackson, Kevin Curtis, Hank Baskett and Jeremy Maclin whenever they are on the field. The player they will look past most often is Celek, and he has the game and quarterback respect to make teams pay.

Cornelius Ingram is the Eagles’ rookie tight end who may cut into the production of Celek just a bit. He's a monstrous athletic talent that the Eagles will look to take advantage of having on their roster.

Both Celek and Ingram are somewhat questionable in the blocking department, but they are in the good hands when it comes to blocking instruction.

Blocking is a combination of heart, athleticism and technique. Celek and Ingram have the heart and athleticism and Andy Reid and offensive line coach, Juan Castillo, are the best in the business at developing technique.

Both players are aware that coming into this season, the No. 1 question on the minds of the coaches regarding tight end is, "Can these guys block?"

Celek and Ingram have been proactive in working on this aspect of their game and Eagles fans will be treated to a substantial improvement over L.J. Smith and Matt Schobel's lackluster blocking efforts.

Additional points of interest with blocking at tight end include the promising progress of converted defensive end from Purdue, Eugene Bright, who I expect to supplant the relatively ineffective Matt Schobel at the third tight end position.

When thinking about a blocking tight end, I can't leave out the formidable option of lining up Jason Peters tight and eligible to receive. The Eagles are deep enough on the offensive line to slide a depth lineman like Max Jean-Gilles onto the field and let Jason Peters play his original position—yes, that's right—tight end.

One last wild thought is bulking up Hank Baskett. His speed and blocking technique with an extra 20 or 25pounds would make for an incredibly dangerous tight end and more repetitions for the under-used receiver.

For now, the picture is clear. Celek is the man at tight end and McNabb has gone to him frequently when he has been in the game before. We will see a lot more of Brent Celek with the ball in 2009.

Expect Celek to have a tremendous season, most likely accounting for 600 to 800 yards receiving, and five to eight touchdowns as McNabb seeks him out.

Dirty Words: What if Terrell Owens Was Still a Philadelphia Eagle?

Leo Pizzini — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 23:36:17 -0400

How could any so-called Eagles fan have any love left for Terrell Owens? He was possibly the biggest tease in Philadelphia sports history.

I kept trying to delete this article, but time and again, it appeared in the writing box. So I'll finish it.

I had planned on talking about the good things and the bad things, what was said and what wasn't.

I'm not going to go there. I will confess, I wish T.O. was still an Eagle, and despite his rhetoric and braggadocios mannerisms, I love me some T.O. I'm going to get it for that, I know.

The guy can play football, and he made this team better when he was here.

I don't want to talk about his intangibles, the negatives, his relationship with his teammates, or how the whole mess went down.

I'm going to pretend he would be happy to be an Eagle, whether true or false.

I am moreover going to paint a picture of what the Eagles would have been like with T.O. from 2005 to 2008.

For the record, I also enjoyed chanting, "Teee-OOOH-T-O-T-O-T-OOOOOH-Teee-OOOOOH-Teee-OOOOOH" at the season finale against the Cowboys (to the tune of ole-ole-ole-ole-we are the champs, we are the champs - if you didn't know).

Owens was the only Cowboy that played well in that game.

How Terrell Owens Positively Affects His Team

With Owens, Donovan McNabb easily would have manufactured at least one 4,000-yard passing season and 30 or more touchdown passes per season as he did with Owens in 2004. It would have remediated all Donovan McNabb doubters.

I'm sure the Eagles would have reigned in at least one Superbowl title with Owens as well.

In 2004, Todd Pinkston started 16 games opposite of Owens and averaged a career-best 18.8 yards per reception, which is 3.5 yards better than his career average. Freddie Mitchell averaged 17.1 yards per reception, which is three yards better than his career average.

Those guys weren't the worst receivers of all time, but they were never that effective before T.O.

So I'm going to say that he makes the players around him better, too, not just by drawing additional coverage, but even more so by elevating the practice levels and providing inspirational production on the game field.

What if Terrell Owens was an Eagle for all of 2005?

Well, he had more than 750 yards in seven games with six touchdowns. I'll do the math for us here:

Average per Game: 107 YARDS, .86 TD

For 16 Games: 1712 YARDS, 14 TD

It hurts to think about what could have been.

Of course, McNabb struggled and eventually succumbed to a sports hernia that season. He may have battled through it if there was an opportunity to make the playoffs.

The Eagles were 4-2 that year before falling to a 6-10 fate without Owens or McNabb down the stretch—basically out of ammo even though Westbrook was emerging.

If Owens was an Eagle in 2005, emerging youngsters L.J Smith, Reggie Brown, and Greg Lewis would probably have been able to pull their load and get the Eagles into the playoffs with either a physically struggling Donovan McNabb or a plain old struggling Mike McMahon.

What if Terrell Owens was an Eagle in 2006?

In reality, it would have ultimately been some kind of disaster with McNabb and Jeff Garcia throwing the ball to T.O., but I'll not get hung up on that fact here.

Despite the franchise quarterback going down, Jeff Garcia led the Eagles into the playoffs with an NFC East-best 10-6 record. Throw T.O. in the mix, and who knows.

Reggie Brown averaged 17.7 yards per catch and had 816 receiving yards; Donte Stallworth averaged 19.1 yards per catch and had 725 yards; and rookie Hank Baskett averaged 21.1 yards per catch. smith was in his prime, hauling in 50 catches for 611 yards.

Westbrook averaged 5.1 yards per carry and caught 77 passes for 1,916 total yards from scrimmage. Correll Buckhalter and Ryan Moats were also on the depth chart at running back.

In 2006, Terrell Owens on the Eagles equals championship—NFC championship at least. McNabb or Garcia throwing the ball would not have mattered as much as having T.O. to get the Eagles past the Saints and the Bears.

The Colts in the Superbowl would have been a challenge, but I would have enjoyed watching that game.

What if Terrell Owens was an Eagle in 2007?

This was the end of the McNabb injury plague. Westbrook carried the work load in 2007, and the receivers played well. But McNabb was shaking off the rust and didn't have the weapons he was looking for to win games.

The Eagles finished 8-8 in 2007.

Stallworth was replaced by Kevin Curtis, but Smith was struggling, and although Brian Westbrook posted over 2,100 yards from scrimmage and Kevin Curtis went over 1,100 yards receiving, the Eagles could not establish a consistently effective passing attack.

Sprinkle some T.O. in the mix, and McNabb could have led the Eagles to victory in at least two or three of the five games they lost by four or fewer points during the regular season.

If my assumption is correct, the Eagles go 11-5—or to be conservative, I'll say 10-6.

That's a playoff-bound record, and the NFC was not as stacked as it is heading into 2009.

The Giants were hitting their stride as the season wound down, but so was McNabb. McNabb looked really good at the end of the season, showing the return of his mobility and toughness.

The Eagles won the last three games, but fell short of the playoffs.

In 2007, If Owens was a Philadelphia Eagle, they would have made the playoffs. The Eagles would have challenged the Giants and Cowboys for the NFC crown and possibly defeated the allegedly undefeatable New England Patriots in the big show.

What if Terrell Owens was an Eagle in 2008?

The 2008 season was so full of ups, downs, and drama, I think T.O.'s head would have exploded.

To be fair, it would have been a different kind of drama with Owens because the Eagles would have won more regular-season games—like the Bengals game.

Without considering stats, Owens, Desean Jackson, and McNabb—playing as well he did—would have been explosion enough to get the Eagles ahead against the Cardinals and never look back.

The Eagles also were looking at a great match-up with the Steelers in the Super Bowl.

Put T.O. on this team, and the Eagles win three and a half more games easily and go 13-3 to win the Super Bowl, hands-down.

Then again, that's what the Cowboys thought.

More of my favorite offseason articles - updated weekly: Click Here to Read More

Eagles Offseason Articles: The Ultimate Guide

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 16:07:10 -0400

There has been a lot of excitement amongst Eagles fans this offseason. In the last few months, some really good Eagles articles have been written on Bleacher Report.

With that in mind, I submit this list of links as homework for anyone in need of catching up with the 2009 Eagles season outlook and offseason developments.

I. Divisional, Conference, and League Outlook

Pizzini's NFL Power Poll by Leo Pizzini

NFC Outlook by Anthony Williamson

NFC East Outlook by Brian Joseph

NFC East Outlook by Brian Hagberg

Beast from the East by Leo Pizzini

II. Offseason Review and Predictions

Eagles Offseason Review by Anthony Williamson

Eagles 2009 Draft by Dan Pharzych

Eagles 2009 Draft Picks by Cody Swartz

Eagles Season Preview by Bryn Swartz

Eagles Season Preview by Anthony Williamson

Eagles Season Preview by Geoff Crawley

OTA Wrap-Up by Leo Pizzini

Reasons for Success in 2009 by Cody Swartz

Eagles New Offensive Twists by Brian Joseph

Eagles New Offensive Twists by Leo Pizzini

Offseason Defensive Review by Paul Dowds

III. Coaches

Coaching Profile by Bob Cunningham

Coaches Profile by Bryn Swartz

Andy Reid's Window of Opportunity by Brian Joseph

Andy Reid by Leo Pizzini

Jimmy Johnson by Kevin Noonan

Sean McDermott by Dan Bandekow

Brian Stewart by Bob Cunningham

IV. Quarterbacks

Donovan McNabb's New Deal by Bob Cunningham

Donovan McNabb by Anthony Williamson

Comparing McNabb to Other NFL Quarterbacks by Bob Cunningham

Kevin Kolb and the Future at QB by Leo Pizzini

V. Running Backs

The Eagles' Running Backs by Leo Pizzini

The Brian Westbrook Injury by Leo Pizzini

LeSean McCoy by Leo Pizzini

Booker and McCoy by Travis Boyer

VI. Wide Receivers

Eagles Receivers by Dan Pharzych

Make a Move for a Receiver by Dan Pharzych

Wide Receiver by Leo Pizzini

Hank Baskett by Leo Pizzini

Jeremy Maclin by Leo Pizzini

Jason Avant by Dan Bandekow

Reggie Brown by Dan Bandekow

VII. Offensive Line

The Eagles' Big Offensive Line by Kevin Noonan

New Look Offensive Line by Kevin Noonan

New Look Offensive Line by Matthew Wysocki

VIII. Tight End

Brent Celek by Leo Pizzini

Need for a Blocking Tight End by Bob Cunningham

Cornelius Ingram by Leo Pizzini

Eugene Bright by Leo Pizzini

IX. Defensive Secondary

The Defensive Backfield by Leo Pizzini

Brian Dawkins by Bryn Swartz

Sheldon Brown by Leo Pizzini

Victor Harris by Leo Pizzini

Sean Jones by Orlando Morales

X. Linebackers

The Eagles' Linebackers by Leo Pizzini

The Eagles' Linebackers by Travis Boyer

XI. Defensive Line

Trent Cole and the Defensive Line by Leo Pizzini

XII. Special Teams

Kick and Punt Return by Cody Swartz

XIII Fantasy Football

Fantasy Predictions by Leo Pizzini

Eagles Receivers by Taylor Rummel

XIV. Historic Teams

2006 Eagles by Dan Pharzych

2001 Eagles by Orlancdo Morales

2000 Eagles by Travis Boyer

1988 Eagles by Lloyd Vance

1995 Eagles by Todd Orodenker

1991 Eagles by Geoff Crawley

1990 Eagles by Leo Pizzini

1988 Fog Bowl by Kevin Noonan

1960 Eagles by Bryn Swartz

Trent Cole is a Man on Fire and a Leader in the Trenches

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 01:06:41 -0400

Defensive end is a position in which Eagles fans have become accustomed to seeing nothing but greatness. From Reggie White and Clyde Simmons, to William Fuller, Hugh Douglas, Jevon Kearse and now Trent Cole; are all in a long line of dominating defensive ends.

The Leader in the Trenches: Trent Cole

Trent Cole has been excellent and with four seasons under his belt, he is planning to bring it harder than ever in 2009.

The 26 year old 6'3" 270-pound Cincinnati Bearcat was drafted in the fifth round of the 2005 draft. As a rookie, Cole accounted for 46 tackles, five sacks and forced one fumble.

In 2006, Cole accounted for 62 tackles, eight sacks, forced four fumbles, recovered one, and returned an interception for a touchdown.

In Cole's 2007 pro bowl campaign, he accounted for 70 tackles, 12.5 sacks, force four fumbles and recovered one.

In 2008, Cole accounted for 77 tackles, nine sacks and two forced fumbles as he battled double teams all season.

In 2009, Cole enters his fifth season in prime condition and poised to exploit the maturation of fellow defensive linemen and linebackers who will require more attention themselves and help draw off double teams.

When asked what he was working on to improve his game for 2009, Cole said, "add a little more size...coming off the ball a little bit faster...using my hands a lot more."

Cole is always working to improve his game and he has commented that the all the way down the line, the players have improved and they are loaded with prototypical talent.

That is the kind of speech that the leader of this defensive line needs to carry on and off the field.

Comparing Cole to some of the recent greats at defensive end for the Eagles, William Fuller really stands out as a similar player. They are of similar build and they both dominated as well rounded run stopping and pass rushing defensive ends.

There is nothing fancy about Trent Cole. He's kind of an overachiever. He's quick and strong, but not exceptional in those areas.

He's not famous for his swim move, bull rush or a forearm club—nothing like that. He just plays hard-nosed-down-hill fundamental football.

Cole does have elite instincts and he moreover plays with a heart felt passion that Eagles fans and players are inspired by.

I believe Trent Cole will have a Pro Bowl worthy season again in 2009.

Defensive Tackle

The returning starters at defensive tackle were the Eagles 2005 and 2006 first round draft picks. Mike Patterson and Brodrick Bunkley are both 25 years old and capable of playing at a Pro Bowl level. They have excelled at stopping the run and are a handful of sacks a piece away from being viable Pro Bowl candidates.

These guys are 300-plus pound monsters that log jam the middle of the line. Patterson also showed that he had some wheels in 1996 returning a fumble 98 yards for a touchdown against the 49ers (correction served by James Yetter).

Everyone likes to see a big man sprint.

Look for Patterson and Bunkley to continue to mature this season and post career bests in most of their statistical measures.

2008 first round draft pick Trevor Laws, and the recently re-converted tackle Dan Klecko have played well with limited opportunity. They haven't been needed, but if called upon, they are capable stand-ins with upside.

Unfortunately Amon Gordon is lost for the season with a ruptured achilles.

Defensive End

One of the interesting traditions of the Jimmy Johnson defense, that either he or interim coordinator Sean McDermott will likely carry forward into 2009, is the use of a quicker defensive end as a tackle in passing situations to generate more pressure.

In 2008, the reserve defensive linemen accounted for 18 sacks. Darren Howard and Chris Clemons recorded 14 of them as Howard often came in at tackle and Clemons on the end, spelling Bunkley and Parker.

Jaqua Parker played the left end position well in 2008, but the maturation of the Eagles 2007 second round draft pick, Victor Abiamiri, and sack specialists Darren Howard and Chris Clemons will put up a stiff competition for that position in training camp.

The training camp battle for left end should make for an outstanding talent to emerge and be awarded with the starting role. All of the candidates for left defensive end are very good football players with something to prove.

Bryan Smith is another interesting defensive end on the Eagles roster that will survive the roster cuts. He will more than likely transition to a strong side linebacker if he doesn't gain mass, but he has the instincts and the quickness to play well at the NFL level.

The Eagles made no real additions to the defensive line in the off season. Considering all of the front office activity, that is a strong testimony to their confidence in the players they have.

Eagles Linebackers | Eagles Secondary

Lost in the Shuffle: A Closer Look at Eagles Receiver Hank Baskett

Leo Pizzini — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 16:34:28 -0400

Prior to the draft, Hank Baskett appeared to have a very good opportunity to play a much bigger role in the 2009 Eagles passing attack. How does he fit in with the Eagles offense now?

Eagles fans have mixed and completely divergent opinions on Baskett. There is a large community of Eagles enthusiasts that believe Baskett could be an extremely productive receiver.

Others believe he would have been lost to free agency and produced bigger numbers by now if he were the real deal.

Both point seem to have validity.

Who is Hank Baskett? A History

Hank Baskett is a 6'4", 220-pound receiver who ran a 4.5 second 40 yard dash at his combine workout. He definitely continues accelerating with long strides after 40 yards.

Baskett was also a high school basketball standout and seven foot collegiate high jumper at New Mexico. Baskett leaped 39.5" in his pro day workout.

Baskett is an intelligent football player who graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA and maintained 3.36 college GPA while playing football and competing in track and field.

Hank Baskett had two very solid years at New Mexico where he ranked 13th in the nation as a senior and earned all-conference honors. Baskett also measured up with some pretty impressive numbers during his combine and pro-day workouts.

2004: 54 catches for 906 yards and 3 touchdowns.

2005: 57 catches for 1,071 yards and 9 touchdowns.

Pro-day results: 4.55 in the 40-yard dash...39.5-inch vertical jump...315-pound bench press...435-pound squat...309-pound power clean...328-pound incline press...32 7/8-inch arm length.

Combine results: 4.50-second 40-yard dash. ... 35-inch vertical jump. ... 9'11" broad jump. ... 4.22-second shuttle run. ... 6.80-second three-cone drill. ... Did not participate in 225-pound bench press.

Baskett's 6.8 second 3-cone would have tied him with Darrius Heyward-Bey at ninth among receivers, his 39.5" vertical would have put him at 5th among receivers again just over Heyward-Bey.

His workout measures up with the best prospects at wide receiver in the 2009 draft class.

Baskett went somewhat surprisingly undrafted, then signed with the Minnesota Vikings and was later traded for Philadelphia Eagles receiver, Billy McMullen.

He enters his fourth season with the Eagles in 2009 at 26 years old. He is signed to a one-year contract.

Baskett has only started in 11 games in his three-year tenure with the Eagles and has been very productive with limited opportunities.

In Baskett's 2006 rookie season, he caught 22 passes for 464 yards and two touchdowns, boasting a 21.1-yard average per catch as he scored twice from beyond 85 yards in that season.

Baskett earned rookie of the week honors twice in 2006.

In Baskett's 2007 season, he caught a disappointing 16 catches for 142 yards and one touchdown. He definitely should have had more opportunity on the field in 2007.

In Baskett's 2008 season, he caught 33 passes for 440 yards including a 90 yard touchdown which was one of his three on the season.

Baskett has made some clutch plays when given the opportunity. Unfortunately for Baskett fans, it's a crowded receiving group that will not likely yield more targets for him in 2009.

What does he do well?

Baskett is a good special teams player, blocks well, moves well, has explosive running ability, good hands, he is a big red zone target and has good instincts to come back to and be aware of his quarterback's situation.

Baskett is what I would describe as a play-maker. Good things happen when the ball moves in his direction and when the ball moves towards him, he moves to the ball.

Exhibit A: 3 touchdown receptions of 85 yards or more in as many seasons.

What does he do poorly?

Not much.

He has been called too stiff, considered to have questionable hands and been called a bit slow at times.

I don't think the charges of suspect agility and hands stick.

In 2008, Baskett caught 64.7 percent of the passes thrown at him with only 4 of his 51 targets being considered drops.

Compare Baskett with two of the best receivers in the League:

Larry Fitzgerald caught 62.3 percent of his 154 targets and was charged with two drops.

Andre Johnson caught 67.6 percent of his 170 targets and was charged with five drops.

These two players are possibly the most reliable weapons in the NFL and Baskett's hands measure just a class below. Receivers like Terrell Owens, Brandon Marshall and Braylon Edwards are elite receivers that average more drops than Baskett.

So I'm not concerned about his hands.

As far as concerns about his agility go, I just don't see it. He's agile enough.

What about his speed? A 4.5 second 40 yard dash is respectable and his three 85 yards touchdowns are proof that he can run. It may take him an extra step to get to top speed, but don't doubt that this guy can move.

How does he fit in with the Eagles in 2009?

Unless something unexpected happens, Baskett will more than likely be a reserve and situational role player.

He can do some things that the other very good 6'0" receivers can not.

Baskett can go up higher for the ball and cover fairly well on special teams.

He would do very well if afforded an opportunity to start across from DeSean Jackson as he adds a new dimension to the Eagles passing offense.

Eagles fans should get excited when Baskett is on the field. He has the potential to break a big play on any down.

DeSean Jackson, Kevin Curtis, Jeremy Maclin, and Hank Baskett are four game-breaking threats who can all be on the field at once.

It's not likely that we will see too much of this offense with the talent expected at tight end and fullback. Also, Jason Avant figures to get his share of reps as a slot possession receiver.

Baskett has some distractions coming up with his celebrity relationship and his forthcoming fatherhood could either inspire or trouble the young receiver.

He still has to earn a spot on this team. He is not a lock, but he does provide a lot of unique value to this offense and his only verifiable limitation to his production is his opportunity.

We will not know how good Hank Baskett is until he gets 70 to 100 targets in a season and that may never happen for him as an Eagle.

Pizzini's NFL Power Poll: Training Camp Edition

Leo Pizzini — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 21:14:08 -0400

A quick and subjective grade of the 2009 preseason power rankings. Many things will change as rookies and free agents emerge into new roles and veterans fall to injury. Grades and rankings are based on 2008 standings and overall effectiveness, including off-season and draft upgrades. New comers and developments to watch this preseason include: *Tom Brady's return to New Egland. *Donovan McNabb and his retooled offense. *Arizona's new run game with Chris Wells. *Eli Manning's new rookie receivers Hakeem Nicks and Ramsees Barden. *The Minnesota Vikings quarterback shuffle. *Matt Ryan and his nearly complete Falcons offense. *Jay Cutler and Devin Hester in Chicago. *The Packers defense with rookie upgrades BJ Raji and Clay Matthews. *Washington with Albert Haynesworth and Brian Orakpo. *Trent Edwards with Terrell Owens. *An Owens-less Tony Romo in Dallas. *Pat White and the wildcat in Miami. *Little Hercules flying solo in Jcksonville. *Anybody but Dan Orslovsky throwing to Calvin Johnson. *The Bengals rookies, especially on defense. *Byron Leftwhich and Antonio Bryant in Tampa Bay. *Matt Cassel and Dwayne Bowe in Kansas City. Enjoy the power poll and be sure to give your feedback and distastes for consideration in future rankings.

Begin Slideshow

Philadelphia Eagles OTA Wrap-Up with Andy Reid

Leo Pizzini — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 10:43:24 -0400

As the Eagles closed their OTAs, head coach Andy Reid offered some interesting comments about the team.

When asked about the hot-button rookies Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy, and Cornelius Ingram, Reid offered the following comment:

"I think all three of them, I think because the number of reps they got with the first group, I think they are ahead of where I thought they would be."

When Reid thinks about where these players would progressively be, he just groups them in with rookies. So being ahead of schedule on the Andy Reid chart might not be saying as much as we might think.

And there is a lot of posturing in all of Reid's press conferences, so I wouldn't get to high on that statement alone.

Still, it is a positive.

We know Reid usually leaves the defense to the defensive coordinator's discretion, but Reid offered up some good bathroom reading on the secondary and has been active in working with the defensive line—hands on.

He seemed genuinely content with the performance of the cornerbacks, specifically talking about great progress from Jack Ikegwuonu and Ellis Hobbs. If these guys can bring it in 2009, the Eagle secondary is going to be unbelievable.

The most exciting comment Reid made was regarding his confidence in Sean Jones to play both free and strong safety.

I think most Eagles fans want to see the ball-hawk, Jones, do his best to add value with Brian Dawkins' vacancy. Optimism is still pretty high on Quintin Demps, but Jones is a seasoned veteran with a history of making plays in the NFL.

Jones could be an X-factor for the Eagles' defense in 2009 if he can get the nod at free safety, a contradiction to the original assessment.

The mysterious Jon Runyan locker came up, and Reid did not deny or substantiate claims that Runyan would be an Eagle in 2009.

Reid did say, "We'll just see how things go down the road. Right now Jon is working his tail off to recover from that knee... and Jon is doing a great job of getting himself ready to play."

With all the young talent on the offensive line, the tackle position is not quite as deep as guard. Runyan would add great experience, depth, and stability at tackle.

Regarding Stacey Andrews' and Kevin Curtis' rehabilitation progress, Reid was confident in their readiness for training camp, but he was careful to specify that he did not want to rush their return—predictably wise.

Reid spoke very little about Brian Westbrook's rehabilitation time frame, but he said Donovan McNabb looked good and comfortable as usual.

To summarize Reid's assessment of the OTAs, he seemed very satisfied that all of the new players were able to effectively work through the entire OTA plan and playbook integration.

Nothing but good news from coach Reid, not that anyone would expect Reid to be negative with the new crop of talent and returning veterans—specifically pursuant to a non-contact optional training activity.

With the exception of Westbrook's ankle, the OTAs were relatively injury light, and that is fantastic.

Making lemonade from lemons: Had Westbrook not participated, the issue with his ankle may have come to light without an opportunity for surgery and rehabilitation prior to the regular season, and his 2009 performance would be diminished because of it.

The Eagles cut three players from the roster at the conclusion of the OTAs. Read More: Eagles Cuts

Last minute news break (updated 06-12-09 4:53 PM):

The Eagles released undersized DT Trevor Jenkins to cut the roster down to 80 in preparation for training camp.

My expectations for local punter, Ken Parrish, from East Stroudsburg are put on hold. He will be an Eagle for a little while longer at least.

Philadelphia Eagles Cut Amon Gordon, Walter Mendenhall, Adam DiMichele

Leo Pizzini — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:17:08 -0400

The Eagles have made some room on their roster. They can only carry 80 players into training camp and had 82 signed, with Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy still to go.

The three players released today were injured defensive tackle Amon Gordon, running back Walter Mendenhall, and quarterback Adam DiMichele (who most people didn't even know was at the OTAs).

The Eagles will still need to cut at least one more player heading into camp and I would imagine it to be local punter from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania, Ken Parrish.

The Implications of Amon Gordon's Release

Unfortunately, Gordon required what is definitely a season ending, and possibly career ending, surgery to repair a ruptured achilles tendon. The Eagles were going to need to cut some talented players, but this is not the way anyone wants to see a player depart.

It also looks as though Philadelphia took two rookie free agents to compete for the vacant defensive tackle position.

Jervonte Jackson, 6'5", 300 lb from Florida Atlantic and Trevor Jenkins, 6'1", 287 lb from Middle Tennessee State have an outside opportunity to make the team as a fifth defensive tackle if they can impress.

I would think it likely that these guys represent nothing more than training camp bodies, and if the Eagles really want a fifth tackle, they may very well look to the waiver wire.

For the Eagles to keep just four defensive tackles fits the mold pretty well, as their defensive scheme calls for sliding a defensive end into the interior on passing downs for more quickly developing pressure and pursuit.

The Implications of Walter Mendenhall's Release

I had very high hopes for rookie free agent Walter Mendenhall as an Eagle. Many fans were looking forward to the promise of a 6'0", 225 lb running back, but it is not to be.

Unfortunately, Mendenhall never had an opportunity to strap on the pads and really show what he could do. I must assume that he had a falling out with, or just never really held serious interest from, the coaches.

I have a feeling Mendenhall will be a guy who finds a home and some success in the NFL, but not as an Eagle in 2009. McDaniel will probably sign him in Denver.

Sometimes these guys come around again when the practice squad starts to take shape. I can hold on to my hopes for that.

In the end, what it does mean?

Much to the chagrin of many Eagles fans, it is a much more promising outlook for returning third string running back Lorenzo Booker.

Andy Reid has remained consistently resolute regarding his confidence in Booker's ability. He does fit the mold for Reid's system very well, but his two-yards-and-change average per carry in the 2008 regular season lost him a lot of fan support.

It is premature to dismiss Booker based on his average, when he didn't have a statistically significant number of carries with which to arithmetically average in the first place.

Booker had his moments of shine in the 2008 training camp and preseason, so we will have to see if running backs Eldra Buckley and Kyle Eckel can challenge him in training camp in 2009.

Hopefully, Booker is not lingering around strictly because of the investment of the 2008 fourth round draft pick.

I am going to give Andy Reid and company the benefit of the doubt here, as they have been amazing this off season, and I'm sure Booker is much better than his 2.5 yard per carry average would otherwise indicate.

Who is Adam DiMichele and Where Did He Come From?

I think this guy snuck past security and found his way onto the practice field wearing a Ron Jaworski jersey or something. That's the rumor, at least.

O.K., that's not true, but local Temple Owl alumni Adam DiMichele's stay with the Eagles didn't last very long. No big surprises here, but it would have been nice to find a young diamond in the rough at quarterback to challenge for a back-up role—especially a local kid.

Make Room For LB Fokou and G Fanaika, Who Will Go?

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:40:16 -0400

Tuesday, the Eagles continue signing their late round draft picks to four year deals. The biggest part of the story is not the agreement of terms with these players, but rather the ramifications to the rest roster.

I'm going to be quite honest when I confess to having had my doubts about Moise Fokou's and Paul Fanaika's opportunity to make this football team because of the preexisting depth at that position.

The Offensive Line with Guard Paul Fanaika

Paul Fanaika is a good looking guard selected in the sixth round from Arizona State. There is no doubt that he has the potential to be a solid NFL player, but how does he fit in with the Eagles?

The Eagles will almost certainly keep no more than 10 offensive linemen and a long snapper. This is what the current offensive line profile looks like:

T: Peters, Andrews, Dunlap, Topou, Justice, Patrick

G: Andrews, Herremans, Cole, Jean-Gilles, Fanaika, McGlynn, Gibson, Reynolds

C: Jamaal Jackson

LS: Dorenbos

If the Eagles have to cut this group of 15 true linemen down to 10 for the 53 man roster they will put some respectable talent out on the open market.

Peters, Andrews, Andrews, Herremans and Jackson are all but guaranteed to be Eagles in 2009. Now Topou and Fanaika are really in the mix, having been buttoned up for four year deals.

Cole and Jean-Gilles are productive veterans alternating at right guard in the absence of Stacy Andrews from group workouts. It is unlikely the Eagles are interested in parting ways with these players without substantial trade value exchanged in return.

If the rookie draftees make the team, the Eagles will only be able to keep one of the following offensive linemen (unless someone new can long snap):

T King Dunlap
T Winston Justice
T Chris Patrick
G Mike McGlynn
G Mike Gibson
G Dallas Reynolds

Dunlap has been getting rave reviews from Juan Castillo and Andy Reid since he was selected in the seventh round of the 2008 draft. I think it is unlikely that he will be cut or traded as he really has little value on the trade market and the Eagles are thin at true tackles.

The depth chart at offensive line for 2009 may look like this:

LT LG C RG RT

Peters Herremans Jackson Andrews Andrews

Dunlap Fanaika Cole Jean-Gilles Topou

There is some additional flexibility in this offensive line with Herremans and both Andrews brothers being capable tackles and Cole playing guard and center very well.

If Topou and Fanaika make the team, Winston Justice and Chris Patrick would appear to be gone.

Justice never mentally recovered since he gave up a ton of sacks in Osi Umenyiora's breakout game against the Eagles. The coaches never really looked at Justice again either.

Patrick made the active roster at the end of last season. He's a big young Cornhusker that seems destined for another team in 2009 unless he clears waivers and finds a spot on the practice squad.

Dallas Reynolds is a rookie free agent from Andy Reid's favorite school, BYU, where Reynolds played center and Reid played guard and tackle. Expect Reynolds on the practice squad if he clears waivers.

Here is where the cuts would hurt most of all.

The Eagles are deep at guard, but these other guys have been championed by the coaching staff as really good looking prospects much like Dunlap.

McGlynn was a fourth round 2008 draft pick. Gibson was a sixth round 2008 draft pick.

These two players are young and talented prospects. I definitely would not expect Fanaika or Topou to make the cut over McGlynn.

It's not very logical for a 2008 fourth round draft pick (McGlynn) to lose a job to a 2009 seventh round draft pick (Fanaika), so accordingly, I am going to assume that the Eagles will find a way to keep McGlynn on the active roster.

Gibson may be a prospect for the 2009 practice squad if he clears waivers.

The Linebackers and Rookie Moise Fokou

The Philadelphia Eagles linebackers are rich with talent. Read More

Fokou looked like a long shot to make the team as a seventh round selection despite his impressive season at Maryland in 2008.

He is a little bit undersized, but will provide good competition as a weak side linebacker with Omar Gaither and Akeem Jordan.

The Eagles will likely keep six linebackers on the 53 man roster for 2009.

Stewart Bradley, Chris Gocong and Joe Mays are fairly secure in the jobs at linebacker.

Either Omar Gaither or Akeem Jordan should be assured a position as well.

Gaither should find a home with the Eagles again. He does a nice job on special teams and can play any of the linebacker positions.

Akeem Jordan also serves a nice role as a coverage linebacker where his presence can be highly correlated to the more successful and productive defense of the second half of 2008 despite his lack of generating turnovers.

Special teams linebackers Tracey White and Tank Daniels don't seem to fit the roster build any more if Fokou can play special teams. There just is not enough room to keep seven linebackers without some kind of big roster move.

Charleston Hughes may have an opportunity on the practice team, but not much else.

The depth chart at linebacker may look like this:

WILL MIKE SAM

Akeem Jordan Stewart Bradley Chris Gocong

Moise Fokou Joe Mays Omar Gaither

Fokou, Mays and Gaither would have to do whatever job the Eagles may have expected from Tracey White and Tank Daniels on special teams.

What are the Eagles going to do with all their excess players?

The Eagles may be able to create another stock pile of draft picks for 2010 if they can deal some of their depth at linebacker, defensive back, receiver and offensive line away to other interested teams.

One more shocking blockbuster trade using their discretionary players may seem unlikely but not out of the question.

Without Sheldon Brown, What Does It All Mean?

Leo Pizzini — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:52:15 -0400

What does Sheldon Brown's OTA absence mean to the Eagles' 2009 regular season?

Andy Reid offered a comment that he wanted Brown at the OTAs, but continued further to say that Brown was working with his own agenda. Reid added that the opportunity is good for the new and young cornerbacks to gain experience through repetitions.

He did not comment on how Brown's absence ultimately figures into his 2009 game plan.

Sheldon Brown has offered no further comments on his disgruntlement or on his absolute intentions at this point in regards to his absence in the OTAs.

First, note that Brown was within his contractual rights to stay home.

Fellow cornerback Asante Samuel is not participating in the final week of the OTAs, either.

That aside, Brown looked to be in a proper state of mind to play football during the mandatory mini-camp. He apologized to the fans and his teammates about his pre-draft outbursts, but the Eagles needed him at this OTA and his absence greatly discounts his apology.

I'm not going to knock Sheldon Brown's game as others have done since the bickering began (Brown Underrated?), but I will suggest that this latest upheaval is even more reminiscent of the 2008 Lito Sheppard season.

What Can Be Done?

The good news is that the potential of the other cornerbacks and the trade value of Sheldon Brown is more than noteworthy.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Brown get traded in a package that includes an Eagles' wide receiver or offensive lineman for a veteran at a needed position or a second or third round draft pick.

The Eagles will need to rid themselves of at least one quality receiver and offensive lineman by the start of the regular season.

If Brown goes in a trade prior to a disappointing season on the bench, his trade value will be much higher. I know the Eagles do not like to have their hand forced by a player, but what one wants and what is best are often mutually exclusive events.

If Brown comes in and plays the position the same way he has in the past, there is no better option in my opinion for the Eagles.

Throwing Sheldon a bone would not be such a bad thing.

Worst-Case Scenario

Considering a worst-case scenario, Eagles' fans have to feel good about the prospects of Ikegwuonu, Hobbs, and Hanson as starting nickel and dime cornerbacks.

Hanson was fantastic in 2008, playing the outside cornerback in nickel packages. Sheldon Brown covered the slot position in the nickel most of the time.

Hobbs was charged with surrendering a lot of touchdowns in New England, but he is unquestionably an improving, young, and talented cornerback with NFL game experience and big play making ability.

Ikegwuonu looks the part. He played the part well in college, but we can only get a better feel for what he can do in the NFL after the Eagles strap up in full gear.

Trae Williams and Dimitri Patterson have also been around the league and may offer up some surprises when camp starts.

When it's all said and done, Eagles fans should feel very good about the defensive backfield regardless of the disposition of the Sheldon Brown conflict.

Final Thoughts

The OTAs are not much of a help to Sheldon. If he is psychologically ready and continues his offseason conditioning, it's all good as far as his game is concerned.

If Sheldon is not ready for this season with the Eagles, the young prospects may need to step their game up a bit.

The youngsters are all more than capable and full of promise.

There is a little bit to worry about, but not much. I am hopeful that Brown will play well for the Eagles, but if the coaching staff senses a diminished performance forthcoming—trade him now and bring in the new class.

Jeremy Jarmon: Future Eagles Left Defensive End?

Leo Pizzini — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 16:59:12 -0400

The Eagles are going to work out a left defensive end on Tuesday. Jeremy Jarmon will miss his senior year at Kentucky do to a violation of the NCAA banned substance list.

Jarmon claimed to be a squeaky-clean guy and offered the explanation that he was taking a supplement he did not know contained a banned substance. He was told to stop taking the supplement, but at that point it was too late.

The inflexibility of the NCAA regarding their substance abuse policy has been widely criticized specifically regarding the Jeremy Jarmon ban.

In just three season, Jarmon became the No. 3 all-time sack leader in Kentucky history, with 17.5 sacks recorded.

Jarmon will become NFL eligible in the 2009 supplemental draft.

The left side of the defensive line is one of the question marks going into 2009 for the Eagles.

Jarmon is a natural left end, but how could Jarmon figure in to the picture at defensive end for the Eagles?

It's doubtful that he is ready to start in the NFL, and his 2009 senior year output for Kentucky is and will always be a projection.

Victor Abiamiri is a very good-looking defensive end. Jaqua Parker and Chris Clemons have also played the position well.

If I were to take a stab at the current prognosis at left end, I would expect Abiamiri to start and shift inside to tackle on passing downs, with Clemons coming in to play left end to get better edge pressure.

Right now, the Eagles look to return six defensive ends from last year. Trent Cole, Darren Howard, Jaqua Parker, Victor Abiamiri, Chris Clemons, and Brian Smith were all on the active roster.

Obviously the Eagles can't keep seven defensive ends. With the injury to defensive tackle Amon Gordon, they will more than likely keep six, not five.

Still, one end would need to go away in order to make room for Jarmon.

It's hard to imagine the Eagles using one of their 2010 draft picks in the supplemental draft for any player, let alone a defensive end.

Nonetheless, if Jarmon is as impressive as he may be in the private workout on Tuesday, the Eagles may make a move for a new face on defensive line.

Who Will Not Get Traded to Make Room for Jeremy Jarmon?

Trent Cole is a lock. The rest of the roster is trade-able or cut-able.

Victor Abiamiri should be a locked in player. He's a young end drafted in the second round of 2007. Abiamiri is just now getting his opportunity to show what he can do on the field.

He hasn't been overly impressive yet, but optimism is high on what he may bring to the field in 2009.

Abiamiri will get another season or two to emerge before the Eagles look to dismiss a second-round draft pick entering his third NFL season.

Who Might Be Cut or Traded To Make Room for Jeremy Jarmon?

Clemons has been an interesting defensive end. He was signed as a free agent and showed a solid ability to get to the passer in 2008, something everyone looks for in a left end.

Clemons registered four sacks in 2008 with the Eagles and eight sacks in 2007 with the Raiders, while only starting two games in those seasons. In 2009, he is entering his sixth NFL season.

Brian Smith was the 2008 third-round draft selection of the Eagles. I don't think the Eagles are ready to move away from Smith yet.

Smith has not taken an NFL regular season snap, but his speed burst has been impressive. He may be an option to play a hybrid end or linebacker position if he is unable to gain bulk.

Who Would Likely Get Cut or Traded To Make Room for Jeremy Jarmon?

Darren Howard had a career year registering 10 sacks, but he is the oldest defensive end with a noteworthy contract size, and could easily be considered dispensable.

Jaqua Parker started most of 2008 at left end for the Eagles. If the Eagles are comfortable with Abiamiri and Jarmon, they could definitely take that direction over Parker.

Both of these players could merit a fourth or fifth round trade value if the timing is right.

The Eagles also signed rookie free agent from Penn State, Josh Gaines. Gaines' best opportunity with the Eagles in 2009 might be the practice squad.

Final Thoughts at Left Defensive End

I really don't see the Eagles making a move for Jeremy Jarmon.

Then again, they are bringing him in for a private workout right away.

If Jarmon fits the bill for Any Reid and company and they pull the trigger on a deal, I would expect to see Parker or Howard shipped off for a 2010 draft pick.

The Eagles Agree to Terms with Rookie Draft Picks Harris, Topou, Gibson

Leo Pizzini — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 13:54:01 -0400

The Eagles have agreed to terms on four year deals with CB Victor "Macho" Harris, OT Fenuki Topou, and WR Brandon Gibson.

Victor Harris makes all the sense in the world.

He provides special teams value, is flexible enough to play safety and cornerback, and was an electric stand out at Virginia Tech.

The Harris signing is going to put a lot of pressure on safety prospects Rashad Baker and Reshard Langford.

Cornerback Jack Ikegwuonu may also be caught in the pinch, although that seems unlikely.

There is a fair chance that the Eagles keep 10 defensive backs instead of nine (9) and that could bode well for the safeties.

The defensive backfield becomes a bit clearer barring injury and may end up looking as follows:

CB: Samuel, Brown, Hobbs, Hanson, and Ikegwuonu.

S: Mikell, Demps, Jones, and Harris.

Baker and Langford still have an outside chance of making the team.

I like Langford's opportunity to make the practice squad if he clears waivers.

I don't think Baker will be an Eagle, although he has looked very good up to this point in the OTAs.

Considering Sheldon Brown's most recent absences, he may be on the trading block after all.

The signing of OT Fenuki Topou from Oregon is also interesting. It is a pretty good indicator of Winston Justice's fate.

Justice was not getting rave reviews from anyone.

It also shows the consensus that Jon Runyan is not planning on returning at this point, at least as an Eagle.

Topou is a good looking offensive tackle that the Eagles took with their third fifth-round pick.

The ultimate offensive line picture remains unclear.

There is tremendous depth and talent at the guard position, but tackle looked relatively weak in terms of depth other than the heralded improvements by King Dunlap and the flexibility of the Andrews Brothers and Todd Herremans to play both tackle and guard.

McGlynn and Gibson really get put on the press here. These guys have shown great potential and are well liked by the coaching staff. Somebody will have to go, and the Eagles needed more depth at tackle than guard.

The Eagles may have kept only nine offensive lineman, but with Andy Reid's love of the trenches and this signing of Topou, I expect to see 10 linemen on the roster.

Here's a picture of what the offensive line may look like.

T: Jason Peters, S. Andrews, King Dunlap, and Fenuki Topou.

G: S. Andrews, Todd Herremans, Nick Cole, Max Jean-Gilles, Mike McGlynn or Mike Gibson.

C: Jamaal Jackson.

The signing of sixth round selection, wide receiver Brandon Gibson blows my mind a bit.

This has sweeping implications.

Someone definitely has to go if Gibson is on the roster.

Baskett and Brown are the veterans at the bottom of the depth chart as most see it.

Baskett offers a contribution on special teams and a size-to-speed ratio otherwise not present.

Brown is built in the model of Maclin, Curtis, (the oldest receiver on the team) and you could stretch it to Jackson and Avant as well.

Injuries and otherwise ineffective play kept Brown unproductive in 2008.

Neither Brown or Baskett warrants much trade value, a fifth round pick at best. If the Eagles kept all of these receivers, that would make a ridiculous seven on a roster that has been widely speculated to only carry five in 2009.

Brandon Gibson could be a real talent at wide receiver, I am just surprised that he may be bumping Baskett or Brown from the roster.

In 2008, Gibson was the lone star at Washington State.

He does not have great size or tremendous speed, but he is definitely a receiver with very nice hands and a great sense of how to play the position.

Walther Football ranked Gibson as the 14th best receiver prospect in the nation despite his average productivity in his senior year.

I can only imagine that the Eagles keep six receivers, not five with this development, and the picture may look like this:

WR: DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Kevin Curtis, Jason Avant, Hank Baskett, and Brandon Gibson.

An afterthought is if Jeremy Maclin is winning the confidence of the coaching staff as a starter, Curtis, Avant, Baskett, and Brown may all be considered tradeable.

Although Curtis seems highly unlikely, he has the only promising trade value.

Considering these deals, there are some players that the Eagles will likely look to trade or release, and that list may include: Winston Justice, Mike McGlynn, Mike Gibson, Sheldon Brown, Hank Baskett, and Reggie Brown or more.

The Eagles' official roster stands at 79 men. They are only allowed to carry 80 into camp and LeSean McCoy, Jeremy Maclin, Cornelius Ingram, Paul Fanaika, and Moise Fokou have not yet signed, so they don't count.

They would bring the Eagles to 84.

One more free signing before players must be cut to make room.

Andy Reid and Rick Burkholder Provide a Brian Westbrook Injury Update

Leo Pizzini — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:26:28 -0400

The Philadelphia Eagles front office has been minimizing Westbrook's ankle injury as a minor procedure that is of little or no concern.

Westbrook's agent offered a statement that the procedure is only being performed because he has time enough to heal before the season commences.

The overwhelming impression of Westbrook's situation in the locker room is a complete return to form.

The final estimation to full recovery is only discernible well after the procedure and into the rehabilitation process. Worst case scenario is a need for a second clean out that may or may not be elective.

Despite the positive expectations from the franchise and players, the Eagles will take nothing for granted as they prepare for 2009.

Today, the day of his surgery, the Eagles issued an official statement on PhiladelphiaEagles.com.

Athletic Trainer, Rick Burkholder said that the surgery was not able to be completed arthroscopically, but was still a minor procedure. He expressly stated that it was an optional surgery that is of little concern.

The bone spurs were a secondary injury relating back to his ankle sprain in September of 2008. Over time the spurs developed and caused scar tissue that was causing pain and swelling when Westbrook positioned himself on the balls of his feet.

Burkholder did not offer up any official return-time estimates, but stated that Westbrook was in the best shape of his career and he expects him to be primed for productivity in 2009.

Burkholder also commented on the resiliency and toughness of Westbrook as a factor that should expedite his return time. He inferred a return to practice estimate to be sometime between training camp and the beginning of the season.

Regarding his cardiovascular conditioning, Burkholder minimzed concerns by offering the idea that following his minor off-season procedures, Westbrook will be in the best shape of his recent career.

Andy Reid also offered comments regarding his comfort level with the successful return of Westbrook.

He did not allude to any interest or initiatives in acquiring a veteran running back at this time, but admittingly recognized that there were some viable options and that more could emerge on the waiver wire as the team cuts begin.

Reid seemed genuinely optimistic regarding the abilities of Booker, McCoy and Weaver to play what roles are required of them despite expressing some concerns for their pass blocking.

Overall this is a good prognosis. Westbrook is out of surgery and reportedly had no unexpected complications.

Looks like Westbrook will be ready to go in time for week one.