Eagles' Offseason in Review: Defensive Edition

It's about that time of the year again—the time where the offseason begins to wind down, mini-camps and OTAs start taking place, and we set our sights on the regular season.

But, before we can try to predict what will happen four months from now, we need to look back on what has changed since the end of the 2008 season.

The Eagles roster has seen a lot of renovation since the playoffs.

The offseason for Philadelphia began with a heartbreaker as the Eagles parted ways with veteran free safety Brian Dawkins.

"B-Dawk" was certainly past his prime; some may even say that he had become a liability in the passing game. Regardless, his presence as a team leader will be missed dearly.

In departing, Dawkins left big shoes to fill.

Fortunately for the Eagles, they have three quality safeties to choose from: Sean Jones, Rashad Baker, and sophomore Quintin Demps.

The winner of this competition, however, remains a mystery.

Free safety is not the only position with question marks surrounding it for the Eagles.

Defensive end is another unknown.  While Trent Cole should have the RDE spot on a lock, the Eagles will have six ends (Victor Abiamiri, Jaqua Parker, Darren Howard, Chris Clemons, Brian Smith, and Jeremy Jarmon) competing for the empty spot on the opposite side, and at least one of them should be competing for their job.

The organization doesn't even necessarily know who will be starting at linebacker, despite spectacular play from their starters last season. While Stuart Bradley and Akeem Jordan both played very well last year, middle linebacker Joe Mays and former starter Omar Gaither are both trying to earn their playing time on Sunday.

Even defensive coordinator has the potential to change—at least for some period of time—this season.

We can only hope that Jim Johnson can return safely from his leave of absence due to the cancer in his spine. Should he be unable to return, Sean McDermott, defensive back's coach, will probably take over the defense and be a suitable temporary replacement until Jim Johnson returns.

McDermott, who has been under Johnson's wing for a decade now, has more than a general knowledge of the Eagles' defense.

But, no matter who starts where, one large question remains: Who can possibly fill the leadership role that Brian Dawkins has left in his wake?

Stuart Bradley doesn't believe that leadership will be an issue.

"A lot of guys are stepping up, not only the level of play on the field, but also their vocal presence," said Bradley.

Asante Samuel is also asserting himself as a defensive leader, PhiladelphiaEagles.com reports.

No matter who plays where, Philly fans are definitely in for a wild ride this season.