S Parker Released, Westbrook, Laws, Abiamiri Cleared for Practice

Bob_Q — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 17:28:04 -0000

More photos » by Rich Schultz - AP

4 months ago: Philadelphia Eagles safety Byron Parker (28) breaks up a pass intended for wide receiver Jason Avant (81) during the morning session of NFL football training camp at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa. on Friday, July, 31, 2009. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)

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Earlier today, the Eagles announced the release of former CFL star safety Byron Parker to make room for the signing of controversial quarterback Michael Vick on the 80-man preseason roster. Parker was fighting for a spot at one of the team's more crowded positions, but saw reps at cornerback as well. The 28-year old safety had only one tackle in Thursday's game against the New England Patriots.

Parker plans to rejoin his former team, the Toronto Argonauts, and report for practice after the team returns from its bye week. This should be a blessing to the struggling Argonauts, since Parker has racked up 18 interceptions and six touchdowns in three seasons with the team.

Parker's release leaves the Eagles with five players at safety: Quintin Mikell, Quintin Demps, Sean Jones, Rashad Baker and Reshard Langford (Macho Harris is officially listed as a cornerback). Mikell is the only guaranteed starter of the group, so expect to see a heated position battle lasting until the final week of preseason.

On a lighter note, Andy Reid announced that Brian Westbrook will be participating in a limited amount of practicing this afternoon. Trevor Laws, Victor Abiamiri, and Matt Schobel have all been removed from the injury report, allowing them to return to the practice field.

Sitting out today will be Brent Celek (shoulder), Trent Cole (shoulder), Shawn Andrews (back), Kevin Kolb (MCL), Jason Peters (quad), Todd Herremans (foot), and Brian Smith (concussion).

Stewart Bradley and Cornelius Ingram have returned from successful surgeries and are back rehabbing at the NovaCare Complex. Both players suffered torn ACLs during training camp and are expected to miss the entire season.

SB Nation - Byron Parker

S Parker Released, Westbrook, Laws, Abiamiri Cleared for Practice