So I'm a Fan of the Eagles on FB.. Right bold news I get it hold your breath there is more.. The team released it's first depth chart! OMG What could this possibly reveal in terms of the foundation for our roster and the Armageddon that is bound to ensue from our imminent super bowl run?!? None! But I'm going to examine it anyway and make dashingly great calls on things that make me a)happy or b)sad.

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This should probably be a fanshot or something smaller but I haven't seen it brought up anywhere else yet and just wanted to get some clarification on it. If we can lock down the two seed and advance beyond that point what are the chances Stew could come back this year with 4-6 weeks of rest. I know he was diagnosed with a dislocated elbow but I haven't heard anything about him going on IR. What is the turn around time for an injury like that? Does it even make sense for him to replace Chaney if we are unsure of how much he will be back at i.e. 75% 80% etc. Anyway sorry if this is in the wrong spot but just wanted to get some more info on this situation and see if anyone could lend a hand. Thanks in advance.

Honest question I wanted to throw out there. I went to my first game at the Vet when I was ten. I know that you can take kids younger but let me give you a quick rundown of my situation and get some opinions. First off I am serving in the United States Navy and have just recently finished a 3 year tour in Italy. We are in the Philly area on leave until I head down to Jacksonville, FL for a 4 year tour there. I recently got lucky and was able to get season tickets but will only be able to goto the Season opener (great enviroment shitty outcome) and now the Redskins game on Oct 3. I took my wife to the first game and we noticed a lot of younger kids at the game. I mean real young. We have a 14 month old son but thought the noise would be too much for him. I dont know when I will get another chance to take him to a game as my job sends me on deployments rather frequently. So how young is too young to goto an Eagles game. What is the age range that people generally start taking their kids to games?  Thanks for the advice in advance.

So before the offseason started I had Washington pretty much pegged as the 4th place team in the NFC East. Then they added a legitimate big time Head Coach, traded for a huge upgrade at QB, and drafted the most NFL ready LT in the draft. Still this made me think of them as 4th best team. They have one decent WR in Santana Moss who is a not a true #1. Kelly and Thomas haven't proven themselves in their first two years, Cooley is a monster but he is coming back off a serious injury, and although Davis had some promising looks at the end of last year he will still have to beat out Cooley to get any significant playing time. All of this pretty much had me convinced they weren't a serious threat for a playoff spot. Then I get up this morning to check out ESPN and see this little nugget...

 

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5306133

 

Now I am not saying that Jamaal Brown will return to form after his injuries last year but think about what this means for the Skins. They now have two legit tackles, which are upgrades to an abysmal offensive line. If they play even remotely decent the line should be 10x better than last year. They added what I like to call the tiresome three at RB. Larry Johnson, Willie Parker, and of course Portis. Now are all of those guys past their primes? Ya I believe so, but in Shanahan's zone blocking scheme you cant tell me one of those guys wont excel, namely Portis who I still think has something in the tank or Parker who really hasn't been in the league that long. If even one of their young WR steps up their offense could actually do something. Not to mention their defense is ALWAYS good. Not a turnover machine, not a smothering sack monster, but consistently year in and year out they are a top 10 D. Put all that together and the Redskins actually might do something this year, or it could just be preseason and I am so bored I start looking for things to worry myself about. Right now I say they manage 9-7 but that is just my greed talking, I want the third round pick in McNabb's deal. What do you think?

Poll

How do you think the Redskins will finish next year?

25%

Less than 8 wins, they have a lot of rebuilding to do.

46 votes

35%

8-8, an average team nothing to take too seriously.

65 votes

29%

9-7, They are just good enough to give us a better draft pick.

55 votes

9%

10-6 or better, they have made enough changes this year to seriously compete.

18 votes

184 votes | Poll has closed

Go buy this book. Right now. This is the first time in my life I have ever been so moved by a piece of literature that I have publicly called for others to go get it. For those of you who don't know what I am referring to it is a book that was recently published about the life and trials of an avid poster on EMB by the name of Tom McAllister. The story is more complex than just his obsession with the Eagles but I have to say it is by far one of the most emotionally stirring books I have ever read. I don't want to sound like some kind of sissy but there were literally parts in the book where I got the chills. I think it might have to do with reading about something you have experienced yourself that gives you a new perspective. I just wanted to say that after reading this book I really think everyone who has any emotional connection to the Eagles, at all, should go out and get a copy. I know it has been plugged by every big Eagles blogger already, but I wanted to add my voice to theirs after I finished it. Just as a disclaimer I have no relationship with this guy at all beyond the loyalty we share to the Birds but this really was a truly moving piece of literature and one that I am sure a lot of Eagles fans can truly relate to. I added the link in Amazon if anyone is motivated enough to go give it a look. If anyone wants to post on here to talk about the book I would be down with that as well.

 

http://www.amazon.com/Bury-Me-My-Jersey-Football/dp/0345516516/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1276100508&sr=1-1

OK so we all are seeing the comparisons fly the blogs and websites about how Kevin Kolb is the next Aaron Rodgers or some other illogical leap of faith. If he is great news for us but here is what I think a lot of people are losing in the translation.... The 2008 Packers are not the 2010 Eagles. The Packers had a horrible O-line that year, their defense perfected the "give em 7 technique".  There was an article recently on ESPN by Clayton (sorry no link) where he stated if Kevin Kolb is as good as Aaron Rodgers was in his first year the Eagles can be expected to go 5-11 or 6-10 at best. I just want to put this out there that no matter how closely Kolb may play to Rodgers in his first year, it is not a one man sport. This Eagles team is much better than the Packers were in Rodgers first year. The defense is suspect in a few positions (FS,RCB,LB (depending on how Bradley comes back and Sims and Fokou turn out). but we have arguably one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL. If I was a first year starting QB in the NFL there are probably only 5 more squads I would rather start for. Our O-line is, for the most part, a proven quality squad. Center is a concern but we dont know how that plays out until it does play out. Anyway I just wanted to put my 2 cents out there. The Kevin Kolb = Aaron Rodgers comparisons are ridiculous and the more I see them the more I think we need another HGH story. So I pose this question to my fellow Bird fans... Is the comparison legit? Should it be the Packers vs. the Eagles, or is the NFL sports world just bored with the off-season and looking for a cheap story to print. The slow news days are killing me can't wait for the season to get here.

 

 

EDIT 29MAY : Found the link least anyone didn't think the Clayton comment was reliable...

JohnClayton 5 worst Offseasons article

Poll

What's the real deal with Kolb vs Rodgers??

5%

Kolb is Rodgers' clone you Fool!

13 votes

16%

They are two different players there is no logical reason for comparing them.

37 votes

18%

We need to compare teams not players (Eagles vs Packers)

42 votes

12%

The slow offseason is making the media reach for stories!

29 votes

45%

For your viewing pleasure "Cowboys suck"

103 votes

224 votes | Poll has closed

This post is just my gut feeling. I dont have any stats to back it up. I dont have a year long analytical spreadsheet that breaks down how good/bad McNabb is when the weather is 10 degrees below the yearly average in Alaska. This is just me saying after 10 years of McNabb I am finally ready to give up. I am not a McNabb hater, in fact I have supported him sincerely since he joined the team. Maybe Kolb is the answer, maybe he isn't. But I do know that I am tired of 70 yard bombs or 3 and outs. I know that I am tired of incompletions on 4 yard crossing routes because the QB can't lead the WR at all. I know that I am tired of being the most hypocritical west coast offense in the NFL because our QB has a laser rocket for passes over 25 yards but can't hit the broad side of a barn from 5-10. Maybe we start Kolb and go 6-10 next year. Maybe we start Kolb and go 12-4. At this point I dont really care I just know that I am ready to stop losing with McNabb. I hope I get proven wrong but at this point I just do not see that happening. So be angry about this post if you want, call me a hater and tell me I am overreacting to the loss, but I just think that after 10 years of McNabb at the helm I am finally ready to lose a different way. McNabb is the best QB to ever wear the Eagles uniform, he is most likely a hall of fame candidate, but I say bring on Kolb.

Cowboys 20 Eagles 16. Nothing to add except good game. Cowboys game to Philly and put it on us in our home stadium. For all the smack talking that went down this week I just wanted to get back on BTB and say nice one guys that was a hard fought game and you guys earned the win. You will hear alot of talk this week about bad calls from the refs, turnovers, miss opportunities. I wont pull any of that out. Cowboys earned the win and congratz. See you all in Dallas for week 17 to see who gets the division title.

First off let me say that I am just as pist off about yesterdays game as the rest of you. Maybe even a little more so. I live overseas and had to stay up until almost 2am to watch that horrid game. But I do know this...every year the same thing happens. The Birds come out against a team we should roll and find a way to hand them the game. Andy is always going to pass first. At a couple times a year he will pass first, second, and third. Way too many 3rd and 10+ today. But the fact of the matter is this happens every year and every year we still see the Eagles in the playoffs challenging for a title. I am glad this happened against the Raiders. We have three straight divisional games coming up that the Eagles need to win. Would you have rather we laid an egg against the Redskins? If people are honest with themselves they realize this needed to happen to us for the team to get it's head out of it's @$$ and start playing good football. That is why this team is great in November and December every year... we take an unimaginable loss to a horrible team and turn it into momentum. Eagles will still be a 10-6 or 11-5 team and they will still make the playoffs. Furthermore I wouldn't be surprised at all if we take these next three games to jump on top of the NFC East. Keep it together guys 1 game doesn't make a season.

Ok so I got extremely bored and wanted to share my thoughts on the season this year. I'll give my game by game breakdown on who I think we should take a win from and who we will probably drop a game to.

 

Week 1 @ Carolina - I think this game is going to be easier than advertised. I know Carolina was a beast last year but in the history of their franchise they yet to put together back to back winning seasons. Beason and Stewart will play but they are both banged up and I have to look at it like this.. Are two injured great players better than two healthy average players? I don't know the answer to that but I know it is a close call. Our offense is way too explosive for the secondary of the Panther's and I fully expect the Westbrook/McCoy combo to get some huge chunks of yardage. Steve Smith is a monster, but unless he ends up one on one with Macho Harris I like our chances. I think we have a close first half and then catch the defense wearing down in the second half with a couple big plays. Eagles win this one 27-10 and yes David Akers misses a 40 yard field goal.

Week 2 New Orleans - This game is simple either we dominate on offense and have a shoot-out or we dominate on defense and have a blow out. We obviously win a blow out... I don't think we take a shoot-out. I'll call this one a toss up but for sake of arguement let's say Eagles 31 Saints 34.

Week 3 Kansas City - If Matt Cassel is healthy, we beat them anyway. The Chiefs are doing some nice things to turn their franchise around, and it will be great if we see Rynuan on the field with them as well. In any case if the Eagles are the Super Bowl contenders I think they are we have to win these kinds of game. Eagles 24 Chiefs 10.

Week 5 Tampa Bay - Another franchise that is looking for an identity. I think Derrick Ward is a better back than people realize. The problem is I think that Tampa's O-Line is as bad as we all think. Eagles 24 Tampa 7.

Week 6 @ Oakland - Call me crazy but I call this a trap game. The Raiders defense is way better than people know and their running game is dangers enough that Russell shouldn't have to make plays just manage the game. Zach Miller is a great TE and can be an awesome safety blanket to the young QB. Again this is the type of game the Eagles need to win to prove they are for real. With the Skins game coming up next week I think we get our first weak game of the year from the squad. Regardless the Birds barely pull this one out and win it. Eagles 17 Raiders 14.

Week 7 @ Washington - Let's be real last year the Skins swept the Eagles. How did they manage that? Great Defense. What do the Skins have this year, an even better defensive unit. It's in DC and the crowd will be hyped. Eagles drop an ugly game. Eagles 10 Skins 17.

Week 8 New York - This one is short and sweet. Eagles are pist about the loss to the Skins, they stack 8 in the box and make Eli beat them. He doesn't. I also think by this point in the season we are noticing that Jacobs cannot carry the load a full year by himself. Luckily for the Giants Bradshaw is proving to be almost as good as G-men fans think he is. Desean shows up big in this one and the Eagles take it. Eagles 28 Giants 17.

Week 9 Dallas - The team is exhausted after two tough matchups with divisional foes. The Cowboys are still heated over a 44-6 butt whooping the year before. What does that spell? A big time let down game from the Birds. Cowboys win a sloppy one with some key mistakes in the 4th quarter by the home team. Eagles 20 Cowboys 24.

Week 10 @ San Diego - The Eagles come into San Diego completely ready to tear someone's head off. Too bad they are still worn down after 3 divisional games in a row and a cross country trip. Too much talent on the Charger's squad means a loss for the Eagles and the fans rejoice at yet another midseason slump. Eagles 14 Chargers 31.

Week 11 @ Chicago - McNabb returns to his hometown with the Philly fans on his back and the media calling for Vick to take the helm. What does he do except show why he is one of the best Qbs in the league. McNabb has a huge night on an aging Chicago D and gets this team primed for another last season playoff push. Eagles 34 Chicago 21.

Week 12 Washington - The Skins enjoy a nice cross country affair by going straight from the Cowboys to the Birds. The Eagles remind the Skins that we are still a team to be recokned with and lay down the smack with a brutal defensive battle. Eagles 17 Skins 7.

Week 13 @ Atlanta - Philly defense does what it does best as McDerrmont takes over right where JJ left off. Punishing inexperience QBs with brutal blitz packages. Maclin breaks the starting roster for the first time this season but Desean reminds him why he is the #1 WR on this team. Eagles take a close into the 4th quarter and then put the finishing touch on Atlanta with a defensive TD. Eagles 31 Atlanta 20.

Week 14 @ New York - After three tough wins in a row the Eagles go into the Meadowlands looking flat. Jacobs has his first game back from his annual 2 game injury vacation and buts the smack down on our depleted linebacker corp. Giants win a close game but control the clock throughout. Eagles 20 Giants 28.

Week 15 San Francisco - Coach Singletary is on track to lock down the Niners first division title in years. Too bad he doesn't let the Eagles know that. I am at the game to watch the Birds dominate the niners in every aspect. McCoy has his first 100 yard game as Westbrook gets a breather in. Eagles 38 Niners 21.

Week 16 Denver - Weapon X returns to Philly. Informs media he regrets his decision to leave and wishes he were back in Eagles Green. Philly loads up in the box and watches as Kyle Orton self destructs. Buckhalter comes in and has a nice game after replacing an injured Moreno. The home crowd gives him a standing ovation. Eagles 21 Broncos 13.

Week 17 @ Dallas - This game all depends on how the division is racking up at the time. Personally I would love to see nothing more than another 44-6 thrashing but to be realistic I see the Eagles in a comfortable spot in the Wild Card race and the Cowboys struggling for the last spot. Andy Reid does his thing and rests some starters. Dallas takes out the Eagles 2nd stringers and their fans brag about it til our ears bleed. Eagles 14 Dallas 28.

 

Eagles end the season 10-6 lock up the first wild card spot and redeem their lose to NY by beating them in the playoffs on their way to their first SB win. Ok this part is pretty biased but give me a break I have high hopes for the year.

Other notables for the season:

Wesbrook has a 1000 yard season again combined with 600 yards recieving.

McNabb wins MVP w/  4200 yards 33TDs and 13 INTs

Desean Jackson hits 1000 yards but only amasses 4TDs

Our biggest Redzone threat? Weaver w/ 6 TDs inside the 20.

 

Ok pulled all of that out of no where so enjoy disagreeing if you like. Thank God it's Football season again!

 

E-A-G-L-E-S   EAGLES!!!!

 

Im seeing alot of write ups on the other NFC East sites.. yes I troll but for me it makes sense to keep an eye on what the competition is up to. One thing Ive noticed is that alot of these fans seem to either not understand football.. or not care what simple logic would tell them. I like to think there are two kinds of Bird fans out there. Optimist and pessimist. You guys know what I'm talking about one guy screams "Go McNabb" during the game the other screams "You're a bum McNabb". Substitute a variety of curse words as needed and that is the simplest way I can break it down, if you've been to the games you know what I'm talking about. Anyway some of these fans from other teams are calling for the G-men or Boys to go 13-3, 12-4, etc. I have a hard time for the G-men pushing 11-5 but at least that seems possible. Further more everyone seems to think just becasue the media thinks the Eagles will be good this year that means they'll go 7-9. Even as a self proclaimed optimist I still see the Birds going 10-6 / 9-7. So are fans for the other NFC East teams just hard headed or do I not have a grasp of the teams in this division? Let me hear what you guys think because I just cant figure this one out. I thought the Beast was a close, physical division where everyone split games and best and worse case scenarios weren't that far off for each team. Maybe I need to upgrade my homerism.

Poll

Who has the biggest homer fans in the NFC East?

6%

Giants

9 votes

19%

Eagles

28 votes

43%

Cowboys

62 votes

4%

Redskins

6 votes

26%

We are all full of it

38 votes

143 votes | Poll has closed

I know it is a one in a million shot but Matt Mosley over on ESPN has an interview with Maclin in about 2 hours (1pm EST) and is taking suggestions for questions off of the comments. Take a look at what people have already posted and if you catch this in time you may get a chance to throw one at him.

 

http://myespn.go.com/blogs/nfceast/0-10-116/Your-chance-to-ask-Jeremy-Maclin-a-question.html?post=true

Leroy climbs Hill as top free agent

Leroy Hill | Seahawks | Interested: 49ers? Dolphins? Chiefs? Colts? Broncos? Browns? According to what Seattle Seahawks general manager Tim Ruskell indicated during a press conference - as reported by Mike Sando on his NFC West blog - Leroy Hill's franchise tag was lifted for two reasons. One, the team wanted the flexibility to sign Hill to a long-term deal, and the contrived framework of the franchise tag was seen as limiting in this regard. Two, the team just made Aaron Curry the highest-drafted linebacker since 2000, when the Washington Redskins took LaVar Arrington with the No. 2 overall pick, and this gave the team some depth in the linebacking corps if things didn't work out with Hill at all.

According to Sando, Seahawks coach Jim Mora spoke with Hill on Sunday morning, and the linebacker seemed "shook up" and "disappointed" at the team's decision to withdraw the tag. It's possible that Hill's agent Todd France may be able to draw some nice offers from other teams, but the original offer that the Seahawks made of $36 million over six years is unlikely to be matched, and the $8.3 million tender Hill would've earned under the franchise tender is a pipe dream at this point.

But there's no doubt that Hill will have some suitors. At just 26, and coming off an 84-tackle season in 2008, he will draw interest from a few teams with the cap space and the roster need at outside linebacker. The Miami Dolphins waited until the seventh round to grab an outside linebacker and they may show some interest in Hill. On the other hand, before the draft weekend, Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland instructed Jason Taylor that they would negotiate with him after the draft if the team didn't select a pass-rusher. Officially, Ireland tells the Palm Beach Post that the team has yet to discuss a Taylor signing, but since the only player taken by the team at either linebacker or defensive end was seventh-rounder J.D. Folsom, there's a strong possbility that Taylor returns for his farewell tour in Miami, and this might take the 'phins out of the Hill sweepstakes depending on Taylor's compensation.

Staying in the AFC, the Cleveland Browns need an upgrade to the outside linebacker position and the team waited until the fourth round to address the need with Kaluka Maiava. Given that the team traded out of the fifth overall pick, they won't have to commit a large amount of money to their recent draftees, and would be able to make a sizable offer to Hill if necessary. It was a bit surprising that the Denver Broncos didn't wind up with an outside linebacker amongst their draftees, and they too might have some cap space left depending on the type of packages they offer their dual first-rounders. Other AFC teams expected to give France a call are the Indianapolis Colts and Kansas City Chiefs, although the Colts' likelihood of signing Hill is more remote given their usage of the Tampa 2 defensive scheme, which Hill would have to learn from scratch.

Finally, in spite of recently extending Parys Haralson through 2013, the Seahawks' NFC West rival San Francisco 49ers could sniff around Hill in the coming days. The team has a force at inside linebacker in 24 year-old Patrick Willis, and a Willis-Hill tandem would give the Niners a great core to build around.

There are questions about Hill's character that stem from an offseason incident where he was found asleep at the wheel in the Atlanta area, and investigating police officers found him to be possession of marijuana. This may impact the payday Hill will receive on the open market, but he is certain to be signed somewhere soon.

 

 

Ok so no mention of the Birds in there but would anyone not be happy if we got him. Love what Andy & Co. did in the draft this weekend but the primary focus was offense and Secondary. I think our LB corp is pretty talented but the only bonified star in the making I truly see there is Bradley. What do you think guys would it be worth it to go after Hill?

From ESPN insider, Enjoy.

1. Detroit Lions (Record: 0-16): Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia

Top three needs: QB, LOT, DE
Stafford is the very clear choice for Detroit. Among the three players the Lions have said they are negotiating with Stafford is at the top, Jason Smith would be the next choice if negotiations with Stafford broke down, and Curry is a long shot. The Lions definitely want a deal in place with the top pick before the draft, and they definitely hope it's with Stafford.

 

 

2. St. Louis Rams (2-14): Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

Top three needs: OT, WR, MLB
Smith has the athleticism and tenacity of a premier starting left tackle, which is priority No. 1 for St. Louis after it parted ways with Orlando Pace during the offseason. If Smith is on the board, it's hard to imagine the Rams going in any other direction.

 

 

3. Kansas City Chiefs (2-14): Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest

Top three needs: Rush LB, DT, 3-4 DL
Here's where it starts to get interesting. This pick is suddenly much more valuable given the fact that Sanchez is projected to come off the board at No. 4, but it remains to be seen whether any team will pay the huge price it would take to get ahead of Seattle. Curry is without question the best available player, but does he fit what the Chiefs are looking to do defensively as they move to a 3-4 look? I think Curry is just as valuable inside in a 3-4 as he is outside in a 4-3, but the one thing they don't get for certain is an impact pass-rusher off the edge. I think Kansas City goes with Curry, but if the Chiefs go in a different direction it will likely be OT Eugene Monroe.

 

 

4. Seattle Seahawks (4-12): Mark Sanchez, QB, USC

Top three needs: OLB, OT, S
The Seahawks are clearly looking for the heir apparent to current starter Matt Hasselbeck, who has dealt with nagging injuries recently but likely has two or three more years in him. There are also questions about stud LT Walter Jones, who is coming off a serious knee injury, but selecting Sanchez will allow Seattle to eventually hand the reins from one franchise quarterback to another.

 

 

5. Cleveland Browns (4-12): B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

Top three needs: OLB, WR, CB
Raji is the best player on the board at this point and would provide the Browns with a stout nose tackle in their 3-4 defense. He has the size and strength to anchor against double-teams in the running game and the burst and quickness to collapse the pocket and get to the quarterback as a pass-rusher.

 

 

6. Cincinnati Bengals (4-11-1): Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

Top three needs: OT, C, RB
Monroe is the best pure pass-blocker in the draft, and he makes sense for a team that has had trouble staying healthy up front and has invested significant money in QB Carson Palmer.

 

 

7. Oakland Raiders (5-11): Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

Top three needs: OT, WR, DT
We rate Crabtree as the top receiver in the 2009 draft, but Raiders owner Al Davis is in love with speed and gives Maclin the edge here. Maclin is one of the most explosive players in the draft and fills one of Oakland's biggest needs, and while he is a bit raw as a receiver and route-runner, his speed is impressive and he can also contribute in the return game.

 

 

8. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11): Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

Top three needs: WR, CB, DT
There has been a lot of talk in recent weeks about the Jaguars trading out of this spot and giving another team a shot at Sanchez, but with Sanchez slotted fourth in this projection, that scenario is out. Crabtree offers great value and a good fit here with his blend of size, hands and body control, and he would give QB David Garrard a legitimate weapon on the outside.

 

 

9. Green Bay Packers (6-10): Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

Top three needs: 3-4 OLB, 3-4 DL, OT
We've had DE/OLB hybrids Aaron Maybin and Brian Orakpo in this spot recently, but they are sliding a bit. Smith makes sense here because Packers OTs Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton are aging and have dealt with injury, and Smith has bounced back from the disastrous start to his pre-draft preparation and now offers good value here.

 

 

10. San Francisco 49ers (7-9): Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

Top three needs: ROT, QB, S
The 49ers want a right tackle who can step in and contribute right away, and Oher is a mauler as a run blocker who could do just that. The team would like to move current LT Joe Staley back to the right side, and this scenario will allow Oher to get used to blitz pickups and the speed of the NFL game before moving to the left side.

 

 

11. Buffalo Bills (7-9): Brian Orakpo, DE/OLB, Texas

Top three needs: Rush DE, C/G, TE
Orakpo is the top-rated DE/OLB hybrid in this draft and we think he is a better fit at end in a 4-3 alignment, which makes him a great fit for the Bills. His strength and burst off the edge will be a welcome addition for a defense that got only three combined sacks from Chris Kelsay and Aaron Schobel last season.

 

 

12. Denver Broncos (8-8): Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

Top three needs: QB, NT, 3-4 DE
The interesting thing with Denver is that on paper, the Broncos need a quarterback. But even if Sanchez were to fall to the Broncos here, I don't expect them to pull the trigger. This pick is all about the D-line for the Broncos. If Raji somehow slips, they'll cash in and grab him. If not, Denver will take the best five-technique DE (interior DE in a 3-4) in this year's class.

 

 

13. Washington Redskins (8-8): Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn State

Top three needs: DE, ROT, strongside LB
There are three angles with the Redskins and this pick. One: If Sanchez falls, they take him. Two: They could mortgage their future and send draft picks to move up to take Sanchez. I'm not convinced they'll do it, but it certainly wouldn't be against owner Dan Snyder's style. Three: Assuming Sanchez is gone, they go either with an offensive tackle or a defensive end. In this case, Maybin is the best value on the board between those two positions, and his quickness and agility off the edge would give the Redskins versatility at the position opposite Andre Carter.

 

 

14. New Orleans Saints (8-8): Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

Top three needs: OLB, FS, RB
The Saints have been rumored to have their eye on Jenkins' former teammate Beanie Wells, but Jenkins is the safer pick here. He has the versatility to play both corner and safety but would fit best at free safety on a New Orleans defense that is in desperate need of playmakers on the back end.

 

 

15. Houston Texans (8-8): Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee

Top three needs: SS, NT, rush DE
Ayers is a one-year wonder, but he has good size and can get up the field after the quarterback. Adding him to the mix with DE Mario Williams and DT Amobi Okoye would present big problems for opposing protection schemes.

 

 

16. San Diego Chargers (8-8): Chris "Beanie" Wells, RB, Ohio State

Top three needs: ROT, RG, SS
The running back situation in San Diego is not as good as you might think. LaDainian Tomlinson has dealt with nagging injuries recently, Darren Sproles was given the franchise tag during the offseason and Michael Bennett is an aging backup who won't carry much of the load, so this is a good luxury pick for the Chargers. Wells would provide them with a big back who can keep Tomlinson fresh and allow Sproles to remain in a complementary role, and he would also provide some certainty for the future.

 

 

 

17. New York Jets (9-7): Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State

Top three needs: QB, WR, TE
The price to move up and get Sanchez is likely too steep for the Jets now that he's projected to go No. 4 overall, and there are enough questions about speedy wideouts Darrius Heyward-Bey and Percy Harvin to take them here. Freeman would definitely be a reach at this point given questions about his instincts and consistency, but his size and rifle arm could be enough to overshadow any concerns and push the Jets to make a desperation move. Quarterback talent drops off significantly after Freeman, and at this point he is New York's best chance to fill that need.

 

 

18. Denver Broncos (from 9-7 CHI) (8-8): Everette Brown, DE, Florida State

Top three needs: QB, NT, 3-4 DE
The Broncos will look to continue to upgrade their defensive front seven with this pick, and Brown could help fill out the rotation of perimeter pass-rushers. The wild card here could be a running back. If Beanie Wells starts to fall, the Broncos could look to take advantage and snag the Ohio State product because he's a perfect fit for Denver's zone-blocking scheme.

 

 

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7): Brian Cushing, OLB, USC

Top three needs: QB, DT, OLB
The Buccaneers wil pass on somewhat-undersized DT Peria Jerry because they are trying to get bigger and more physical in the front seven than they were in the scheme of former defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin. While Cushing has limitations in coverage he fits the bill in terms of size and strength at the point of attack, and he has the versatility to play inside if needed.

 

 

20. Detroit Lions (from 9-7 DAL) (0-16): Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi

Top three needs: QB, LOT, DE
New coach Jim Schwartz will rotate his defensive linemen throughout a game, and current DTs Grady Jackson and Chuck Darby are on the down side of their careers. Jerry would fit well in that rotation as a one-gap penetrator who can create havoc in the middle.

 

 

21. Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1): Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

Top three needs: WR, RB, TE
Offensive tackle is not a need area after the Jason Peters trade and Moreno is a tremendous value at this point in the first round. Moreno's versatility makes him a good fit in Philly as the short-term complement to Brian Westbrook and long-term replacement for him.

 

 

22. Minnesota Vikings (10-6): Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland

Top three needs: QB, ROT, C
There are questions about Heyward-Bey's route-running and hands, but he was the fastest player at the combine and his speed would provide a downfield threat for an offense that needs to prevent defenses from ganging up on RB Adrian Peterson.

 

 

23. New England Patriots (11-5): Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

Top three needs: OLB, strongside ILB, CB
If Jenkins falls, don't be surprised to see the Patriots take advantage of that and select him. His versatility fits perfectly in New England. But if he's not there, Matthews has "Patriots" written all over him. Matthews' best football is still ahead of him, he has great NFL bloodlines, he can play multiple roles on defense and he will be a special-teams demon from Day 1.

 

 

24. Atlanta Falcons (11-5): Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma State

Top three needs: DT/NT, OLB, S
Atlanta really wants to target defense with this draft, but there isn't a player close to Pettigrew's value at this point. Assuming the Falcons don't bring in a veteran between now and the draft, they have to go with the only first-round TE in this year's class if he's available.

 

 

25. Miami Dolphins (11-5): Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

Top three needs: CB, WR, NT
Davis is perhaps the best cover corner in the draft and a top-15 talent, but he has fallen a bit due to concerns about his work ethic and consistency. Still, he makes perfect sense for a team that made the playoffs last year but needs a playmaker in the defensive secondary. Davis is a great value at this point, and on a team with strong leadership in the front office, and the locker-room character concerns are not as significant as they might be for other teams.

 

 

26. Baltimore Ravens (11-5): Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers

Top three needs: WR, CB, ILB
Britt is the perfect fit in Baltimore with his combination of size, hands and better-than-expected top-end speed. He would provide another reliable option for QB Joe Flacco and add to a receiving corps that has struggled to stay healthy and counts on big contributions from aging veteran Derrick Mason.

 

 

27. Indianapolis Colts (12-4): Percy Harvin, WR, Florida

Top three needs: DT, WR, OLB
The Colts are most likely to use this pick on a defensive tackle or wide receiver, and while WR Hakeem Nicks is worth the pick, he does not have the type of speed Indy looks for in its pass-catchers. That means Harvin is the pick, and questions about his durability and attitude are worth the risk at this point in the first round.

 

 

28. Buffalo Bills (from 12-4 CAR through Philadelphia) (7-9): Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

Top three needs: DE, C/G, TE
Buffalo traded away Jason Peters to get this pick, and Britton will help fill the void left by Peters' departure. Britton has good size and good feet and will fit in nicely with the Bills' offense.

 

 

29. New York Giants (12-4): Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina

Top three needs: WR, strongside LB, OT
There's a lot of speculation about Braylon Edwards being traded to the Giants, which would cost New York this pick. But there hasn't been a deal yet, and if the Giants hold on to this pick and don't bring in a veteran, Nicks is a no-brainer. He's big, has exceptional hand-eye coordination and is ready to contribute for Eli Manning right now.

 

 

30. Tennessee Titans (13-3): Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC

Top three needs: WR, DT, MLB
Tennessee's biggest need is at wide receiver, but that has been the Titans' biggest need for the past half-dozen years and they haven't used a first-round pick on a receiver yet, so why start now? The Titans would like to move Stephen Tulloch to the outside where his lack of size is not as much of an issue, and Maualuga would give them a big downhill thumper who can stop the run in the middle and showed underrated pass-rush skills at the Senior Bowl.

 

 

31. Arizona Cardinals (9-7): Donald Brown, RB, Connecticut

Top three needs: RB, OLB, LOT
Brown lacks exceptional breakaway speed, but he's instinctive, tough and versatile enough to contribute on all three downs in the NFL right now. Arizona doesn't have to take a running back here, but it would be wise to take advantage of Brown being there, especially with an aging Edgerrin James and a still-unproven Tim Hightower as the only two backs on the roster.

 

 

32. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4): Max Unger, C, Oregon

Top three needs: OT, CB, 3-4 DE
Cornerback could be a possibility here, and Alphonso Smith, despite his lack of ideal size and top-end speed, has the playmaking skills and toughness to fit well in Pittsburgh. But this is the time for the Steelers to develop young talent along the offensive line, and Unger's size, strength and versatility are better suited for what Pittsburgh looks for in an offensive lineman, and give him a slight edge over Alex Mack and Eric Wood.

Thought I would post this for discussion. Here is what McShay has our Birds taking in each round we have a pick. If you have insider here's the link to the full draft for each team.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nfl/draft09/insider/columns/story?id=4085612

21. Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1): Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia

Top three needs: WR, RB, TE
Offensive tackle is not a need area after the Jason Peters trade and Moreno is a tremendous value at this point in the first round. Moreno's versatility makes him a good fit in Philly as the short-term complement to Brian Westbrook and long-term replacement for him.

(53)

Philadelphia Eagles

Cornelius Ingram

TE

Florida

(85)

Philadelphia Eagles

Brooks Foster

WR

North Carolina

(121)

Philadelphia Eagles

Mike Mickens

DC

Cincinnati

(141)

Philadelphia Eagles (from Cleveland)

Nic Harris

OLB

Oklahoma

(153)

Philadelphia Eagles (from NY Jets)

Curtis Taylor

SS

LSU

(157)

Philadelphia Eagles

Brandon Gibson

WR

Washington State

(194)

Philadelphia Eagles

Ryan Palmer

CB

Texas

(195)

Philadelphia Eagles (from Minnesota)

Seth Olsen

OT

Iowa

(230)

Philadelphia Eagles

Henry Melton

DE

Texas

First off I have a huge man-crush on Moreno so I'm solid on the first round pick. Secondly I am in the we need another TE boat so I'm ok with the Ingram pick. I kind of got sold on Coffman after reading some posts on here but a TE to supplement Celek is needed no matter the case so that pick makes sense. After that it seems to me like he just went with the bread and butter "Eagles need a WR" approach. Honestly I see RD 1 and RD 2 going RB and TE but after that I really think we take a CB. With the Sheldon stuff going down right now it only makes sense to add more depth to the position. I don't like the Linebacker and Safety picks but I also am bias and think our LBs are going to be set for awhile and that Demps is our solution at FS. Reid is notorious for his LB/DE hybrid picks in the later rounds so I can't argue with another one of those. Just some quick thoughts let me know what you guys think, overall I would say this draft would get about a B- for me and that is mostly just off the first two rounds.

 

 

I posted this in another fan post but decided I should seperate it because it was kinda off topic in that post. Just throwing this out there for people to give me their gut feelings on (no math needed). We all know Andy and Marty split play calling but last year especially I felt like I could tell the difference. Maybe it was all in my head and I simply imagined Marty called the plays when we won but if you paid close attention last year during the playoff push a lot of times Andy would be on the sideline with nothing in his hands. During those times I felt like we ran the ball a greater amount and presented a generally more balanced offense. During some random stretch in any given game the Birds would start to falter on offense and punt two to three times in a row. Sure enough when the camera would cut to Reid he would have his clipboard back in his hand. When the offense got rolling again the clipboard would be gone on the next shot. Maybe it was some delirium in my head but I really thought I could tell from the play selection when Marty was calling the shots vice Reid. What do you guys think… besides that Im crazy?

First off let me say I have way more faith in our WR core after this past season but like everyone else I can't help but get excited about the addition of a true big time possession wideout. So I was more than happy to read this article on NFL.com about the current situation in Cincy.

Indications are that Cincinnati won’t be able to keep him off the open market, an NFL source said Thursday. Cincinnati, where Houshmandzadeh has spent his entire eight-year career, will try to sign him to a long-term deal before free agency starts Feb. 27. However, at this point, things do not appear promising.

Cincinnati could apply the franchise tag on Houshmandzadeh, 31, to restrict his ability to leave, but it does not appear they plan to do so. Franchising Houshmandzadeh would cost them $9.88 million against the 2009 salary cap. Houshmandzadeh also told the Dayton Daily News that he would boycott offseason workouts and be unhappy if the team designated him with the franchise tag.

 

http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/02/12/bengals-not-likely-to-tag-houshmandzadeh/

Sounds like a good thing to me. Let's be honest with ourselves for a minute though, will the Eagles get either Housh or Q? Probably not. But the going rate for Q seems to be the equal to the Roy Williams deal last year and we know the Eagles won't match that. The Eagles could get Housh for just straight up cash money while at the same time holding onto all their stockpiled draft picks. OT, TE, pace changing RB?? No problem, you can get your big name WR and still find them in the draft.