Philadelphia Eagles Release Veteran DE Darren Howard, WR Kevin Curtis

The Philadelphia Eagles personnel office was busy Thursday, announcing roster cuts that included veteran wide receiver Kevin Curtis and defensive end Darren Howard.

Howard had been with the team since 2006, when he was signed as an unrestricted free agent.

Since joining the Eagles, he recorded 21 1/2 sacks, including 5 1/2 last year, his best season in 2008 recording 10 sacks.

He was rotated in at left end, using the scheme set up by the late defensive coordinator, Jim Johnson.

Eagles head coach Andy Reid was complementary of Howard following the news of the defensive end's release.

"Darren Howard has been one of our most productive and versatile members of our defense in the last couple of years," said Reid. "He is nothing but a solid player, leader and person on and off the field."

Kevin Curtis' injury filled campaign with the Eagles is also over.

Curtis joined the team in 2007 from the St. Louis Rams. His first year with the Eagles was exceptional, as he collected 77 receptions for 1,110 yards, including a 200+ yard game against the Lions where he scored three touchdowns.

Unfortunately, he only caught 39 passes the last two seasons.

He battled injuries for the past couple seasons, while recovering from knee injuries and a sports hernia: an injury that has also plagued QB Donovan McNabb.

Curtis was likely released due to the great play of the Eagles' up-and-coming wide receivers, DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin, who would be much more affordable to keep on the team.

The Eagles have also announced some jersey number changes, including; LeSean McCoy who will change his number from No. 29 to 25, and former Penn State receiver Jordan Norwood will change from No. 84 to 19. New players, safety Marlin Jackson will wear No. 28, and DE Darryl Tapp will wear No. 91.