Who's Filling the Empty Shoes Left With the Philadelphia Eagles ?

If an Eagles fan from five years ago disappeared and returned today, he might not recognize his beloved birds.

The team has undergone some serious changes this 2009 offseason. The most recognizable is the departure of the Eagles' centerpiece: quarterback Donovan McNabb.

But, soon before McNabb's trade, longtime fan-favorite running back Brian Westbrook was released from the dynasty after his injuries defined him more than his performance on the field could.

Now, with two huge veteran players out of the picture, Philly is looking to rebuild with a younger, fresher roster. The Eagles are depending on their developing veterans to give them a leg up in the 2010 season.

First up is returning back-up quarterback Kevin Kolb, who has some big shoes to fill. You can bet that Philly fans are looking for him to carry the weight on his young shoulders.

Kolb, who was drafted by the Eagles in the 2007 draft, saw a rough beginning in Philadelphia. In his second year with the team, Kolb had an opportunity in a game against the Baltimore Ravens, after the infamous benching of McNabb.

Remember what he did with his opportunity? Unfortunately, nerves seemed to get the best of him when he threw an interception to Raven Ed Reed in the end zone, who brought the ball back for a 108 yard touchdown, an NFL record.

2009 treated Kolb better after he got some playing time replacing an injured McNabb. He was the first quarterback in NFL history to throw for 300 yards in each of his first two career starts.

His performance during the 2009 season, and in current practice and training, gives Philly coaches and fans alike hope for the heart of their offense.

Returning for his second season is 21-year-old running back LeSean McCoy, who already has extensive experience in filling big shoes. McCoy stepped up for the Eagles last season when Westbrook's injuries left him unable to play.

Since earning the all-time Eagles rookie rushing record in his game against the Chiefs last season, the Eagles are looking to him to continue his role as go-to running back.

According to Marty Mornhinweg, the Eagles' offensive coordinator, McCoy is perfectly comfortable and confident in his new role.

McCoy himself says he is in better shape, faster, and ready to be explosive on the field. Look for some interesting things to come from the young hopeful.

Some other promising returners such as DeSean Jackson, Brent Celek, and Jason Avant are hoping to excel even further this coming season with an accurate quarterback.

And who could forget about the notorious quarterback Michael Vick? Everyone saw at the post-draft mini-camp how much of an improved player he seemed to be. Vick is a possibility the Eagles will definitely be exploring, but most likely only as a back up to Kolb.

While things in Philly may be pliable right now, one thing is for certain. The open holes in the lineup are promising for some healthy inter-team competition, and we're going to see some intriguing things from this budding Eagles dynasty.