Eagles Have Promising Season: Nothing To Fear But Fear Itself

The 2009 Eagles have everything it takes to reach and win the Super Bowl.  Only internal problems and injuries could clip the Birds’ wings. 

The Eagles only need health and happiness for a successful season.  Philly relies so much on Brian Westbrook that the team needs him healthy. 

Westbrook’s one of the most dynamic playmakers in the game, but Philadelphia’s more prepared for his absence than ever with the addition of rookie running back LeSean McCoy. 

As far as the team’s happiness goes, the Eagles need Sheldon Brown to suit up and shut up. They also need Donovan to be happy.  He is reportedly working on a new deal. 

The Eagles should be fine unless…

A prolonged holdout for Sheldon Brown during training camp could turn into a big distraction. In the secondary, the Eagles need the veteran corner. 

Philly uses many nickel and dime formations.  Even though Ellis Hobbs is on the team, the Eagles need all the depth they can get at corner. 

Brian Westbrook tweaked his ankle this week, which bothered him all season. The Eagles will not reach the Super Bowl without No. 36. 

Donovan McNabb can look like one of the best in the game at times, and sometimes the coaching staff believes he should not be playing.  McNabb wants a new contract, and, if he does not get a new deal, then an unfocused and upset quarterback could disrupt the team’s goals. 

The offensive line is rebuilt.  Jason Peters and Stacy Andrews should replace John Runyan and Tra Thomas, but you don’t know how well they will mesh together until they face live action. 

The unfortunate situation of defensive coordinator Jim Johnson is another thing that could derail the Eagles.  Johnson’s on a leave of absence while he receives treatment for melanoma.  Philly had the No. 1 defense in the NFC last season.  Without the captain of the ship, Johnson, and the team’s defensive leader, Brian Dawkins, it will be tough for the defense to be as stout as last year. 

Overall, the only thing that could prevent the Eagles from a deep playoff run is a horrible streak of bad luck.