Say It Isn’t So, Philly!

Say It Isn’t So, Philly!
Most NFL Owners Meetings are generally known for releasing the upcoming season’s schedule and rule changes. This meeting, however, produced a bombshell announcement...the Philadelphia Eagles placed star QB Donovan McNabb on the trading block. Wow, I didn’t see that coming! I also didn’t see the Eagles trading McNabb to division-rival Washington Redskins! Are you kidding me?

During Andy Reid’s press conference, the Head Coach/Executive VP of Football Operations stated how much McNabb meant to the Eagles organization. Reid also discussed how important Donovan’s feelings/wishes were in the process. If you read between the lines, then you understand that McNabb did not want to be traded to cellar-dwellers Oakland or Buffalo. Well, it looks like a quick trip down I-95 was A-OK with the Pro Bowl QB, but, how will Philly fare long term? In return for McNabb, the Eagles receive the 37th pick (2nd round) in the 2010 draft, along with either a 3rd or 4th round pick in 2011. I realize football is a high-stakes business, however, it is likely the Eagles will really regret this move.

The addition of Michael Vick to the nest may have lead to McNabb’s inevitable departure. While the Eagles have stated they were willing to part with any of their three quarterbacks, Vick and McNabb were the likely trade candidates. Both are proven entities in the league and have trade value. In what was seen as a rouge and uncharacteristic move by the Eagles, Vick was brought in as a “Wildcat” type player, in order to bring a much needed new element to what is typically a one dimensional and uninspiring offense. Looking back to last year’s preseason, McNabb may have planted seeds of doubt to his longevity in Philly when he didn’t seem to be on board with Vick having a place in the offense. Remember the “cut it” gesture McNabb made towards offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg during Vick’s inaugural game as an Eagle? Very telling.

Many of my friends are Eagles fans and they discuss the fate of their team very passionately. At the end of every season, they contemplate why Andy Reid is still the head coach, whether Donovan will elevate his game, and how Philly will get back to the Super Bowl. Prior to the end of the past season, Eagles Owner Jeffrey Lurie decided to give Reid a contract extension, much to the chagrin of many fans. One fact which was somewhat overlooked was that McNabb has not signed a contract extension. Fans assumed that since Philly finally has three good receivers in DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and Brent Celek in the fold, McNabb would be given a chance to mentor them for several years. With the addition of RB LeSean McCoy, this is the best Eagles offense since the departure of Terrell Owens. Now, although he has played sparingly and is generally untested, Kevin Kolb is now the face of the franchise. Good luck with that!

Throughout this whole drama-filled day, the person I feel for the most is Redskins QB Jason Campbell. Let’s be clear, I’m not a Campbell fan. However, I do feel bad for him because during his Redskins tenure, Campbell has played under numerous offensive coordinators, probably one new coordinator every year. His supporting cast has been suspect at best. The ‘Skins offensive line had numerous problems, which translated into a whole lot of sacks and flat out terrible plays. Jason Campbell must now know that his playing days in Washington are quickly nearing an end. Campbell may end up in Oakland, Carolina or Buffalo. Time will tell.

The NFC East is the best division in football by far. With the shift of QB’s in the division, the drama has heightened...I can’t wait for the season to begin!


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