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        the Gridiron >> the Red Zone >>  Eagles Offseason Report
        
(Message started by: Philly on Mar 3^rd, 2006, 10:28pm)

Title: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Mar 3^rd, 2006, 10:28pm

Some big news in Eagle-land. Apparently the Eagles were poised and ready to sign former New Orleans Saint center/guard LeCharles Bentley today. The opening of free agency, however, was pushed back until Monday, so the deal will have to wait.

Bentley is one of the most-coveted offensive linemen available this off-season. Aside from Steve Hutchinson (Seahawks) who is a restricted free agent and would require the signing team to give up draft picks as compensation, there really aren't any other linemen in this class. Bentley is still very young 26 and has racked up a nice cadre of accolades in his early career. As a rookie, he was named SI Offensive Rookie of the year as a guard. In 2003, he earned a Pro Bowl invite as a guard. In 2004, he moved to center and was an alternate to the Pro Bowl. And in 2005 he was selected to the Pro Bowl again.

Bentley would likely spell the end of Hank Fraley's days as an Eagle. After Fraley was injured in 2005, Jamaal Jackson's play at center was better than Fraley's. Jackson would likely stick around as the second center or could even compete for a position at LG.

If this deal actually happens, as anticipated, on Monday, this off-season will already be more successful than the 2005 off-season.

Title: Re: Eagles Off-season Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 4^th, 2006, 10:07pm

Any rumblings on Mike Anderson??? The word in Philly is that an offer was forthcoming for Anderson's services. Can't find anything in print but was wondering if you caught wind of this?? ?.?.?

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Mar 5^th, 2006, 8:22am

Philly--

I agree that the Bentley signing is exciting. I am thrilled the Eagles are going that way. I have said all along they need to sign one of the top 3 OL out there. However, I would disagree that the Bently signing is more exciting than the T.O. signing last year. Everyone in football was excited about that signing.

And, if the Eagles go after Anderson, that would be great. He would compliment Westbrook well!!!

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Mar 5^th, 2006, 9:04am

The TO signing was 2 years ago DD.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Mar 5^th, 2006, 6:20pm

on 03/05/06 at 09:04:15, BarnabyWilde wrote:

The TO signing was 2 years ago DD.

DOH!!!! I stand corrected!!!

I guess last year was a very forgetable offseason for the Eagles.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 5^th, 2006, 6:28pm

Just got off the phone with a guy with ties in Philly. He insists the following announcements will be made tomorrow:

Bentley deal is done.
Shawn Barber signs.
Jeff Gracia signs (McMahon and Detmer gone).

Nothing "hard" but just thought I'd share it with everyone since it does make sense. ;D

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 5^th, 2006, 6:52pm

CBS Sportsline is now reporting the Eagles did in fact cut Detmer and McMahon and will sign Garcia on Monday.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Mar 5^th, 2006, 10:14pm

on 03/05/06 at 18:28:02, Chumpzilla wrote:

Bentley and Garcia make sense. Both good signings. But Shawn Barber? I hope he comes cheap with his coming off a knee injury last year..... VERY CHEAP!!!

Thanks for the info Chumpzilla!!

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Mar 5^th, 2006, 10:18pm

on 03/05/06 at 18:52:33, Chumpzilla wrote:

CBS Sportsline is now reporting the Eagles .... will sign Garcia on Monday.

It's OK, Jeff (Garcia). T.O. will be gone....

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Mar 6^th, 2006, 2:00pm

I haven't seen anything official regarding Detmer and McMahon, although that could get pushed back until Wednesday now with the new free agency starting date.

I also haven't heard anything concrete regarding Mike Anderson. He's a guy that fans are aware of and would like to see in town, so that might be fueling the rumors.

Shawn Barber is also another rumor, probably because he was an effective player for the Eagles, but I don't think he'll be back because of his age and injury issues since he's been gone.

Finally, Jeff Garcia would be a decent backup for the Eagles (I've never liked him as a QB, but I could live with him as a backup). His name has also been flying through the local rumor mills of late.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Mar 7^th, 2006, 1:34pm

on 03/06/06 at 14:00:51, Philly wrote:

I also haven't heard anything concrete regarding Mike Anderson. He's a guy that fans are aware of and would like to see in town, so that might be fueling the rumors.

Of course unsubstantiated articles like this one could be fueling speculation as well... (scroll to very bottom)

http://www.denverpost.com/sports/ci_3575592

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Mar 8^th, 2006, 7:05pm

on 03/06/06 at 14:00:51, Philly wrote:

Shawn Barber is also another rumor, probably because he was an effective player for the Eagles, but I don't think he'll be back because of his age and injury issues since he's been gone.

Shows how much I know...

http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/PHI/9293138

Eagles re-sign Shawn Barber to a one-year deal.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 8^th, 2006, 8:02pm

on 03/08/06 at 19:05:26, Philly wrote:

Shows how much I know...

http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/PHI/9293138

Eagles re-sign Shawn Barber to a one-year deal.

;D [smiley=crystalball.gif]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Mar 9^th, 2006, 9:52am

Looks like Shawn Barber will be the starter at WILL while Matt McCoy continues to grow into the position. This could make Keith Adams (scheduled to become a UFA tomorrow) expendible despite his skills as a special teamer.

The Eagles also re-signed Juqua Thomas (DE) to another one-year deal. He joined the Eagles in-season last fall and contributed 19 tackls in part-time duties. Don't expect much else from him. He's an insurance policy at this point.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Mar 11^th, 2006, 1:04pm

on 03/08/06 at 19:05:26, Philly wrote:

Shows how much I know...

Shows how much we all know....Bentley signed with Cleveland and NOT the Eagles. This is BAD news for the Eagles. Supposively an agreement was in place.... this will be interesting to watch.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2364025

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 11^th, 2006, 1:49pm

I think what's killing teams is the two delays in free agency. I truly believe, had the original deadline held, Bentley would be an Eagle. I had a feeling something may be wrong over the last two days. I thought it was weird that the Eagles were contingency planning (talking to Mawae of the Jets) when an agreement was supposed to be in place. ?.?.?

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by sameoldsameold on Mar 12^th, 2006, 5:16pm

Darren Howard and eagles wanna get a deal done

Eagles | Howard hopes to land a deal Published Sun Mar 12 5:02:00 p.m. ET 2006
(KFFL) Rob Maaddi, of the Associated Press, reports free agent DE Darren Howard (Saints) visited the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, March 12, and was to remain in Philadelphia overnight. Howard said he didn't have any other visits planned and hoped to work out a deal with the Eagles. "I like the situation. I like the team," Howard said. "It's a matter of getting a deal done."

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by sameoldsameold on Mar 13^th, 2006, 4:04am

deal done for howard?

Eagles | Team reportedly agrees to terms with Howard Published Mon Mar 13 1:06:00 a.m. ET 2006
(KFFL) Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports a source said the Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to the terms of a six-year contract with free agent DE Darren Howard (Saints). No financial terms were disclosed. Gary Wichard, the agent for Howard, would not confirm the agreement but said he was working on a deal with the team.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 13^th, 2006, 5:22am

on 03/13/06 at 04:04:06, sameoldsameold wrote:

WOW!!! :( I'm impressed with Eagles brass. Lose out on Bentley, lose out on Randle El, lose out on Mike Anderson, Joe Jure is gone. Arguably, the best FA linebacker out there in Witherspoon is gone. La'Roi Glover is signed. BUT Eagles are one of the teams with the most $$$ out there and the best they can muster is Babrer and Howard. [smiley=no.gif] Call me crazy but last time I checked a "ring" wasn't awarded to the team with the most $$$ under the cap. [smiley=furious.gif]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Mar 13^th, 2006, 11:20am

Hey, let's not forget Matt Schobel. The Eagles signed him to complement LJ Smith at TE. (Actually, it's a good signing, but after losing Bentley, it's anticlimactic.)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Chumpzilla on Mar 13^th, 2006, 12:41pm

Just a formality... PhiladelphiaEagles.com is reporting that the Eagles will announce the signing of DE Draren Howard at a 1 PM press conference today.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by sameoldsameold on Mar 13^th, 2006, 5:47pm

eagles trying for WRs...maybe givens next?

Eagles | Team came close to signing Finneran
Mon, 13 Mar 2006 14:40:35 -0800

Steve Wyche, of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reports the Philadelphia Eagles came close to signing WR Brian Finneran, before he decided to re-sign with the Atlanta Falcons.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Tony_O on Mar 14^th, 2006, 12:27pm

It's about time........

Barring unforeseen twist, Eagles to release T.O.By Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com

One way or another, Terrell Owens' tumultuous two-year tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles is almost certain to end Tuesday, likely with the team releasing the exiled wide receiver who played in only seven games in 2005.

The seven-year contract that Owens signed with the Eagles in 2004 stipulates that the team is to pay him a $5 million bonus if he is on the roster for the fifth day of the "league year." Because of the delays necessary to negotiate an extension to the NFL's collective bargaining agreement, the league year began Saturday instead of March 3 as originally scheduled, and that makes Wednesday the due date for the bonus.

If Owens is still on the roster on Wednesday morning, the Eagles are on the hook for the roster bonus. To avoid paying the $5 million, they must release him by the end of league business hours Tuesday -- or no later than 4 p.m. ET Tuesday -- so that he is on the official transaction document disseminated to all 32 franchises.

So barring some last-minute twist, Owens, who is also due a second bonus of $2.5 million later this month, will be released before the afternoon deadline. The end of the Philly-Owens relationship will immediately make him a free agent, and it will save the Eagles $4.54 million in salary cap charges in the coming season.

There is a remote possibility, of course, that Owens could be traded. But most franchises interested in the big-play wideout have been reluctant to invest even a low-round draft choice in a player who figures to be available on the open market. Also, any team dealing for Owens would inherit his current contract, and clubs believe it is a prohibitive deal -- there are five seasons remaining on the contract, which was originally worth $49 million -- that needs to be reworked.

Owens visited with Denver officials in late January, and the Broncos seem intrigued by him, but owner Pat Bowlen said this week the perceived ardor has been "overblown." It is not believed that Owens made any other visits. He and agent Drew Rosenhaus were granted permission in January to seek potential trade partners.

It does not appear likely, league officials acknowledged last week, that Owens or Rosenhaus have any avenues of recourse remaining for blocking the wide receiver's release. Nor does it appear any such move would be in Owens' best interests, since gaining his freedom will enable him to quickly begin shopping for a new home.

His off-field actions from 2005 aside, Owens is still regarded as a premier playmaker, one who could draw interest from a core group of four or five teams when he is released. With what transpired last season, Owens cannot return to the Eagles.

A 10-year veteran, Owens was suspended twice last season, the first time during summer training camp for a week, then at midseason. He appeared in a career-low seven games and caught 47 passes for 763 yards and six touchdowns.

In November, arbitrator Richard Bloch upheld the Eagles' right to suspend Owens four games for conduct detrimental to the team, and to place him on the inactive list every week after that for the balance of the season. The in-season suspension cost Owens $764,705 of his scheduled $3.25 million base salary for 2005.

The Eagles are also trying to recover $1.725 million, a prorated share of the $8.5 million signing bonus Owens received in '04. The NFL Players' Association has filed a grievance on his behalf in that case. It is not known when that grievance will be heard.

In 10 seasons, Owens, who began his NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers as a third-round pick in the 1996 draft, has 716 receptions for 10,535 yards and 101 touchdowns. He has appeared in 142 games, 128 of them as a starter, and has been chosen for the Pro Bowl five times.

Senior writer Len Pasquarelli covers the NFL for ESPN.com.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Mar 14^th, 2006, 4:19pm

T.O. officially released:

http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/9300482

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Tony_O on Mar 15^th, 2006, 6:26pm

Eagles re-sign McCants
Receiver Darnerien McCants will rejoin the Philadelphia Eagles next season after signing a one-year contract Wednesday.

McCants, 27, played in 12 games for the Eagles last season, mostly on special teams. He caught five passes for 87 yards as a reserve.

A fifth-round draft pick out of Delaware State in 2001 by Washington, McCants joined the Eagles shortly before the 2005 season opener. In 41 career games, he has 58 catches for 774 yards and eight touchdowns.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Tony_O on Mar 15^th, 2006, 6:28pm

Updated: March 15, 2006, 1:29 PM ET
Garcia, Eagles have agreement in principleBy Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com

While a few details still need to be addressed, the Philadelphia Eagles have reached a contract agreement in principle with unrestricted free agent quarterback Jeff Garcia, who arrived Wednesday for an official visit with coaches and team officials.

Details of the contract, which Garcia is expected to sign in the next day or two, were not available.

The Eagles, who are seeking to upgrade the depth chart behind starter Donovan McNabb, will become the fourth different team in four seasons for Garcia, a seven-year veteran and three-time Pro Bowl performer. That stretch of itinerancy aside, Garcia, if healthy, appears to be a very good fit in Philadelphia, given his familiarity with the West Coast-style offense and desire to sign with a winning franchise.

Notable as well is that Garcia enjoyed past success under Eagles assistant head coach Marty Mornhinweg, when the two were together with the 49ers.

Garcia, 36, played for the Detroit Lions in 2005, starting in five of his six appearances and completing 102 of 173 passes for 937 yards, with three touchdown passes and six interceptions. His play was affected by the fact he sustained a broken ankle in the preseason, and then hurried into the lineup when Detroit benched starter Joey Harrington.

The former San Jose State star began his professional career in the CFL, then signed with San Francisco in 1999, and posted five straight seasons of 2,500 yards or more before his release after the 2003 campaign for salary cap reasons. The stretch included three seasons of 3,300 yards or more. Between 2000 and 2001, Garcia threw for 7,816 yards and 63 touchdowns. From 2000 to 2003, he averaged 3,466 yards and 25.5 touchdowns.

It isn't likely that Garcia will ever reach those numbers again. But if he is healthy, Garcia is a far better player than his performances in 2004 and 2005 indicated. With the Cleveland Browns in 2004 and then the Lions in 2005, he started in 15 games and played inconsistently.

For his career, Garcia has completed 1,695 of 2,785 passes for 19,076 yards, with 126 touchdown passes and 71 interceptions.

The Philadelphia depth chart was challenged in 2005 when McNabb was forced out of the lineup by the sports hernia injury that eventually required surgery. Mike McMahon started the final seven games of the season, and Philadelphia was 2-5 with him in the lineup. McMahon and fellow backup Koy Detmer remain under contract, but the addition of Garcia could affect their status.

Len Pasquarelli is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Mar 20^th, 2006, 6:37pm

On the substantive football side... [smiley=footballsmiley.gif] From "The REAL Feed":

Eagles Sign Howard to $30 Million Deal (http://football.about.com/b/a/251460.htm)
About.com: Football (20.03.2006 17:21)
You can cross defensive end off the Philadelphia Eagles' list of needs for this year's NFL Draft. According to a report by ESPN's John Clayton, the Philadelphia Eagles reached an agreement Sunday night with former Saints defensive end Darren Howard...

On the BS soap-opera side... [smiley=violin.gif] From "The REAL Feed":

T.O. to tell Philly story in new book (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2377168&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (20.03.2006 18:03)
Terrell Owens is writing a book called "Ineligible Receiver: The Real Story of My Journey from the Super Bowl to the Sidelines." It is due in July.

Did you guys see that interview with Drew Rosenhaus on ESPN Sportscenter today... Sheesh... :-/ This guy is the worst thing that could have happened to Owens... Never mind, your client may really need psychiatric help, Mr. Rosenbucks... Fuckin' moron... Then, he pimps the Owens's book which is his brother is going to pen... What an asshole!!! [smiley=lickmyass.gif]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Mar 24^th, 2006, 7:37pm

Runyan re-signs, off the REAL FEED::

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/03/24/2020.ap.fbn.eagles.runyan.0194/index.html

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Apr 3^rd, 2006, 9:10pm

Here's a REAL nice FANTASY-relevant piece from off "The REAL Feed (http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/newsstand.htm)":

The Eagles should touch ground more in 2006 (http://www.realfootball365.com/nfl/articles/philadelphia-eagles-runningbacks040306.php)
NFL News: RealFootball365.com (03.04.2006 14:01)
They were third from the top and third from the bottom: number three in the NFL in passes attempted and 30th in rushes attempted.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Apr 4^th, 2006, 11:23am

on 04/03/06 at 21:10:18, StegRock wrote:

I'm sure they'll run the ball a little more than last year, when they threw it 63% of the time, but don't expect anything nearing balance. At the scouting combine, Andy Reid was on the record saying he'd like to be closer to 50-50 in the pass-run distribution, however, just a couple days ago he changed that to a 58-42 ratio, pass to run.

Need more proof? The Eagles offensive line will be relatively unchanged from 2005, with the possible exception being that Jamaal Jackson could supplant Hank Fraley as the starting center. At tight end, the Eagles went out and backed up LJ Smith (a pass-catching TE) with Matt Schobel (another pass-catching TE). A couple guys the Eagles have shown particular interest in (on the offensive side of the ball) for the upcoming draft are Florida WR Chad Jackson and USC OT Winston Justice. (Justice is a very athletic OT who excels in pass blocking.)

So don't run out and invest in Eagles running stock. It looks like Westbrook will still get plenty of his points through the air.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on May 18^th, 2006, 5:28pm

The Eagles traded WR Billy McMullen to the Vikings for rookie WR Hank Baskett. Baskett was a highly touted receiver who, surprisingly, went undrafted and was signed immediately by the Vikings. McMullen was a highly touted received who was drafted in the third round of the 2003 draft and has been unable to secure much playing time since then. At this point, it doesn't look like anything to get excited about for fantasy football. But if the Eagles are really shaking up the WR corps (by releasing Todd Pinkston - unlikely - and Greg Lewis - possibility), then Baskett could get an opportunity down the road.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on May 23^rd, 2006, 7:00pm

Retirement announcement from "The REAL Feed":

Eagles DT Paul Grasmanis retires (AP) (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-eagles-grasmanis&prov=ap&type=lgns)
Yahoo! News: Democratic Party (23.05.2006 18:00)
Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Paul Grasmanis retired on Tuesday, ending a 10-year NFL career filled with injuries. Grasmanis joined the Eagles in 2000, and made 126 tackles and 10 1/2 sacks in 54 games in Philadelphia. He played just eight games over the last three seasons, missing most o...

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jun 6^th, 2006, 6:47pm

Might Brian Dawkins be in his final year with the Eagles? He already is... in one sense. Currently atop "The REAL Feed":

Dawkins hopes for special treatment from Eagles (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/06/06/2020.ap.fbn.eagles.dawkins.0503/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (06.06.2006 18:08)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jun 12^th, 2006, 4:20pm

Keepin' their line pieced together... according to "The REAL Feed":

Guard Shawn Andrews signs seven-year deal with Eagles (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/06/12/2020.ap.fbn.eagles.andrews.0112/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (12.06.2006 12:35)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jun 13^th, 2006, 9:42am

A fat contract is a nice reward for slimming down. If he controls his weight, he can be one of the most dominant OGs in the NFL -- he's that good. The Eagles line is shaping up nicely.

LT - William Thomas (Winston Justice)
LG - Todd Herremans (Adrien Clarke)
C - Jamaal Jackson or Hank Fraley
RG - Shawn Andrews (Max Jean-Gilles)
RT - Jon Runyan (Calvin Armstrong)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jun 26^th, 2006, 1:47am

From the OFFICIAL Eagles source available via "the Gridiron Newsstand (http://www.fantasyfootballer.com/newsstand.htm)"...

"Buckhalter's Road To Recovery (http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/homeNewsDetail.jsp?id=50541)"

Is there really any hope here... for a prosperous NFL career??? ...of ever having an impact on the fantasy gridiron??? Mind you, this is coming from a once staunch Buckhalter believer.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jun 26^th, 2006, 8:58am

I follow the Eagles fairly closely and I don't have any idea what to think about Buckhalter. I thought that they'd release him last year, but they instead signed him to a two-year deal before he got injured again. The Eagles didn't go out and get another big back in the draft or FA, so they must think he's OK again (although I've heard them talking positively about Thomas Tapeh - a hybrid RB/FB type who also has spent most of his Eagles' days injured). Honestly, from a fantasy perspective, I'd stay away from both of them.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 18^th, 2006, 2:26pm

Just putting this where it belongs...

Justice is "officially" on his way to Philly... according to "The REAL Feed":

Briefs: Eagles sign second-round pick (http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/story/9558901/rss)
CBS SportsLine.com NFL News (17.07.2006 20:06)
Monday's NFL news briefs: Second-round draft pick Winston Justice signed a four-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday, leaving only their first-round pick unsigned heading into training camp.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 20^th, 2006, 4:07pm

Rewarding their BIG [smiley=spchef.gif] boyz... according to "The REAL Feed":

Eagles reward OL Jackson with five-year extension (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2524690&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (20.07.2006 02:06)
The Philadelphia Eagles are one of the best teams in identifying good, young offensive linemen and locking them up for the future, and on Thursday night, they made center Jamaal Jackson their next star of the future.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 21^st, 2006, 9:25am

on 07/20/06 at 16:07:18, StegRock wrote:

Not sure where ESPN gets their information, but it's a seven-year deal. It looks like Fraley's tenure may have come to an end.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 21^st, 2006, 9:33am

The Eagles opened camp and immediately put three players on the PUP list (meaning they can return at any time).

Correll Buckhalter is still rehabbing from last year's knee injury and isn't ready to go yet (big red flag, fantasy owners!). Jason Avant had a minor scope job done last month and should be ready to go before long (although I think he could end up on IR this year since he won't press for a starting role anyway). Jeremy Bloom is still recovering from a sore hamstring and had an MRI to check it out yesterday.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Jul 21^st, 2006, 10:49am

on 07/21/06 at 09:33:02, Philly wrote:

As you have stated in your previous posts, I think Buckhalter is a bonus anyway. Everything I have read is that it will be Westbrook, Moats, and Bruce Perry from Maryland as the 3rd down back.

What is interesting is that I am reading the Eagles will be more commiited to the run. (yea, sure) If that is truly the case, who is it going to be?

I personally really like Perry. I had the chance to watch hom play frequently at Maryland. I would not be surprised if you see him emerge as the #2 guy and the primary 'runner' for the Eagles. As a matter of fact, I had a post on the Eagles thread last year (before he got hurt) telling people to watch for him.....

I guess we will see..... I just have a hard time picturing the Eagles actually committed to the run.....

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 21^st, 2006, 11:10am

Andy Reid is on the record as stating that the Eagles will run more in 2006. However, the one truth in sports is that everyone lies.

Anyway, the Eagles did run the ball more towards the end of the season (especially after Fraley went down), so maybe it will happen.

I see it shaking down this way.

#1 Brian Westbrook - Will get about 50% of the carries.
#2 Ryan Moats - Will get about 20-25% of the carries and Westbrook will split out wide when Moats is in the backfield.
#3 Thomas Tapeh - Yes, I've heard two different people inside the organization speaking glowingly about him off the record. I loved him at U of Minnesota (although that could be a system offense more than talented RBs???). He can run, catch, and block. I see him getting about 10% of the carries, esp. goal-line and short yardage.
#4 Reno Mahe / Donovan McNabb - They'll eat the other 15% of the carries.

Bruce Perry - they like him, but I don't see him being part of the offense unless someone goes down with injury.

Correll Buckhalter - I think they part ways with him once he's healthy enough to pass a team physical.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 22^nd, 2006, 6:23pm

Injury [smiley=injury.gif] update on the skier kid (re)turned football player... He's a late bloomer... :D with a sore hammy... according to "The REAL Feed":

Hamstring injury could have Eagles' Bloom missing time (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2526992&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (22.07.2006 12:11)
The hamstring injury that landed fifth-round draft choice Jeremy Bloom on the physically unable to perform list for the start of Philadelphia Eagles' training camp is more severe than anticipated.

[smiley=snowjob.gif]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 27^th, 2006, 7:45pm

Brown key to success of the passing game... according to this source "The REAL Feed":

Pasquarelli: Eagles need Brown to catch on (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp06/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2531167&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (27.07.2006 15:35)
Things are calmer at Eagles camp with Terrell Owens gone. But his absence has left the Eagles with a hole at WR that they need Reggie Brown to fill.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 28^th, 2006, 11:48am

Injuries...

Ryan Moats - sidelined a couple weeks with an apparent sprained knee ligament.

Todd Pinkston - still unable to practice with recovery from Achilles injury from '05.

William "Tra" Thomas - has yet to practice this spring

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 28^th, 2006, 4:18pm

More troubled NFL players... from "The REAL Feed":

Eagles' Gaffney faces handgun possession charge (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2532587&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (28.07.2006 14:31)
Eagles wide receiver Jabar Gaffney was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a handgun following a traffic stop last month, county prosecutors said Friday.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Jul 29^th, 2006, 5:29pm

As noted above, Reggie Brown is key to saving the Eagles' passing game. Well, he just injured his hamstring... Currently topping "The REAL Feed":

Eagles WR Reggie Brown injures hamstring in training camp (http://www.duluthsuperior.com/mld/duluthsuperior/sports/football/15153868.htm)
Duluth News-Tribune: Football (29.07.2006 17:05)
Reggie Brown, expected to battle for the Eagles' No. 1 receiver position this year, injured his hamstring in practice Saturday. INTERACTIVEBLOG: PanthersPODCAST: DolphinsLATEST HEADLINESJaguars veteran RB Taylor hurting againRoaf says he's quitting; Hawk, Davis signCowboys agree to terms with 1s...

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 30^th, 2006, 10:01pm

on 07/28/06 at 16:18:46, StegRock wrote:

Nothing serious to worry about here -- at least according to Andy Reid. Gaffney was stopped for a traffic violation and when he was retrieving his info from the glove compartment, police noticed a handgun. Gaffney was licensed to carry a concealed handgun in the state of Texas. He had just moved here to NJ and thought (incorrectly) that the license was still OK. Well, it wasn't. But this was a first offense and it is unlikely that he'll get anything but a short probation time and then have his record cleared of any wrongdoing. This will not affect his role on the team at all.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 30^th, 2006, 10:02pm

on 07/29/06 at 17:29:01, StegRock wrote:

Brown tweaked his hamstring in the morning practice on Saturday and left practice. He did return for (and take part in) the afternoon practice the same day, so this shouldn't be a concern.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Jul 31^st, 2006, 1:28pm

I posted a couple updates on the Eagles Report page...

Here's more of the skinny:

Reggie Brown is OK. He was held out of Sunday's practice, but early reports from training camp this morning indicated he was back on the field today. I don't see this as a lingering concern as early camp hammies tend to get tweaked fairly often.

LJ Smith returned to practice. He had missed some time with a sprain of the shoulder AC joint. He's had shoulder issues in the past, so this should raise a small red flag. Matt Schobel is struggling some in camp, although he (reportedly) looked very good in Sunday's practice.

Brod Bunkley is still MIA. His agent is really starting to annoy the Eagles as he's showing no indications of urgency and doesn't seem to want to make himself available to the Eagles for negotiations.

Hank Baskett is the rave of camp so far. Part of it is his good play, and part of it is the fact that he's getting opportunities that will disappear once Todd Pinkston returns.

Jason Avant is on the practice field for the first time during training camp. He really shouldn't be on anyone's fantasy radar any time soon.

Brian Westbrook is having his best camp of his career. Ryan Moats is still nursing a sore knee, but it shouldn't be a long-range concern and he'll return as the #2 RB. Correll Buckhalter and Thomas Tapeh are practicing, but lightly. Bruce Perry is making a statement about his wanting to be on the team.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 1^st, 2006, 6:39pm

A rarity this year... From "The REAL Feed":

Eagles rookie Bunkley remains unsigned (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/08/01/2020.ap.fbn.eagles.bunkley.0492/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (01.08.2006 18:09)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 2^nd, 2006, 2:13pm

Phil, I gotta off-the-beaten-track question for you... Given my being a UHer and, therefore, a fan of my UH Rainbow Warriors, I think highly of Timmy Chang. Last night, during the sports report on the news, I came to learn that he is in Eagles camp. I know you are good at scouting, especially when it comes to the young guys lookin' for a shot. Have you heard...??? How is Timmy lookin'? Is there any chance he beats out Koy and makes the team? Is there any hope for the kid, period? Despite his being a product of a (college) system and schedule, you'd kind of think that there would be a place in the NFL for the ALL-TIME LEADER in yards passing,... no? [smiley=shrug.gif]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 2^nd, 2006, 5:10pm

on 08/02/06 at 14:13:00, StegRock wrote:

Unfortunately Chang is really nothing more than a training camp arm for the Eagles -- someone to help run drills and such. For example, a couple days ago while the 1st-3rd team offenses were running offensive drills, Chang was working with the linebackers on a pass-coverage drill. He's a system QB without NFL prospects. I know he bounced around a few NFL practice squads last year without sniffing an NFL roster. I imagine he might do the same this year before heading to the Great White North.

If you're looking for a Hawaii QB with a better shot, look no further than current Rainbow Warrior slinger Colt Brennan. He's legit.

Do you get a chance to go to any of the UH games?

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 2^nd, 2006, 7:13pm

I didn't last year... We're going to this year,... at least one... And, yes, I've heard the hype about Brennan here...

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 4^th, 2006, 4:46pm

First-rounder (did I get that right? ;)) in... according to what's topping "The REAL Feed":

First-round pick Bunkley ends holdout (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/08/04/2020.ap.fbn.eagles.bunkley.1st.ld.writethru.0294/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (04.08.2006 16:35)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 5^th, 2006, 8:21am

on 08/04/06 at 16:46:32, StegRock wrote:

Of course he was a first-rounder... just because he held out, that doesn't change things... Did you not like the selection the Eagles made?? [smiley=shrug.gif]

Anyway, this is great news for Bunk and the Eagles, but he's already way behind. Fortunately he's a big workout guy, so he should be in decent shape -- making it easier to get into playing shape. I also hope he's had his nose stuck in the playbook. Jim Johnson runs a very complicated defense, even for the DTs. Fortunately the Eagles hired a new D-line coach (Pete Jenkins) out of retirement this year and all the D-linemen are raving about how wonderful he is to work with and what a great teacher he is.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Aug 5^th, 2006, 11:38am

on 08/05/06 at 08:21:14, Philly wrote:

Of course he was a first-rounder... just because he held out, that doesn't change things... Did you not like the selection the Eagles made?? [smiley=shrug.gif]

I think what Steg is referring to was he stated earlier that the Redskins signed thier first round pick, which was actually a 2nd rounder, but their overall first pick and someone corrected him. Stop being so defensive of your 4th place divisional team, you whiny bitch. ;)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 5^th, 2006, 4:56pm

on 08/05/06 at 11:38:15, BarnabyWilde wrote:

I think what Steg is refering to was he stated earlier that the Redskins signed thier first round pick, which was actually a 2nd rounder, but their overall first pick and someone corrected him. Stop being so defensive of your 4th place divisional team, you whiny bitch. ;)

[smiley=laugh.gif] [smiley=hellyeafunny.gif] [smiley=LMFAO.gif] [smiley=sinister.gif] [smiley=rollinwithlaughter.gif]

You guys are cracking me up here today... [smiley=bow.gif]

(And, yes, [smiley=yes.gif] Jim, you are right about what I was referring to.)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DirkDiggler on Aug 5^th, 2006, 8:20pm

on 08/05/06 at 11:38:15, BarnabyWilde wrote:

I think what Steg is referring to was he stated earlier that the Redskins signed thier first round pick, which was actually a 2nd rounder, but their overall first pick and someone corrected him.

[offtopic] And this is the SECOND time that incident has been referrenced. Heaven forbid that it was corrected and the correct facts were pointed out. [smiley=awwgee.gif] I know no one else around here would want to ensure the actual fact was pointed out. ;) (sarcasm intended)

And, I thought it was important to mention that the Redskinds gave up their 1st pick for Campbell....(who has done nothing)

With all that being said, I got the message the first time, dont need a second and third mention.

Now back to the Eagles.........
[/offtopic]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by BarnabyWilde on Aug 5^th, 2006, 8:35pm

I only pointed it out (without mentioning any names, mind you) so that whiny Eagle lover can get the story straight. Don't you start whining too. :)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 6^th, 2006, 11:08pm

Dawkins ain't goin' anywhere... according to "The REAL Feed":

Eagles agree to two-year extension with Dawkins (http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.asp?c=sportsnetwork&page=nfl/news/ABN4034448.htm)
The Sports Network: NFL (06.08.2006 21:05)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 7^th, 2006, 1:55am

RB injured during Hall of Fame game... according to "The REAL Feed":

Oakland wins preseason opener; Eagles' RB Perry hurt (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=260806021&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (07.08.2006 01:07)
Visit ESPN.com for the complete story.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 9^th, 2006, 7:57am

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook has a "mild" foot sprain that he suffered during the game on Sunday night. He was wearing a protective walking boot after the game. The foot is not the same one that caused him to miss four games last season. Westbrook will not play against Cleveland tomorrow night.

This is a real concern for Westbrook owners. He played only one series (and looked fantastic) on Sunday night and couldn't escape unscathed. Let's hope that it is only a minor injury that will heal with a little inactivity and time.

(The Eagles signed RB Marty Johnson - late of the Broncos and NFLEL - to add depth during camp.)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 14^th, 2006, 6:08pm

Defense takes a hit... McDougle injured... AGAIN... according to "The REAL Feed":

Eagles DE McDougle out with broken ribs (http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.asp?c=sportsnetwork&page=nfl/news/ABN4035577.htm)
The Sports Network: NFL (14.08.2006 17:12)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 15^th, 2006, 10:40pm

Here we go... Westbrook injured again and OUT for the rest of the preseason... From "The REAL Feed":

Eagles' Westbrook (foot) likely to miss rest of preseason (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2550626&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (15.08.2006 21:10)
Andy Reid on Monday told the Philadelphia Inquirer that star running back Brian Westbrook will likely sit out the rest of the preseason as he recovers from the sprained left foot he suffered in the Aug. 6 preseason opener against Oakland.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 19^th, 2006, 1:52pm

Westbrook's sprained foot is not too serious, but Big Red is just being very cautious (especially with Buckhalter slow to return, Moats still injured, Perry concussed, and no one else to really carry the ball much). I think the Eagles just want to make sure that he's 100% for the opener... he really doesn't need the preseason work.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 19^th, 2006, 5:52pm

But, isn't it indicative of his "proclivity" for injury??? I know that down through the years I've ultimately been a big proponent of pointing out the unpredictability of injuries (that's a point on which I'm slowly evolving away from,... at least to a more middle-ground position), but I think that is what most of us are concerned about in this case as opposed to this injury itself... [smiley=shrug.gif]

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 19^th, 2006, 9:53pm

There's no doubt that there is a history of injuries with BWB... he hasn't played a full season in his 4 years in the bigs. But when he's on the field (and he's really not off the field that much - on average about 2 games a season), he's an outstanding option for performance leagues.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 24^th, 2006, 11:25pm

Pinkston finally to make preseason debut... according to "The REAL Feed":

WR Pinkston set to make preseason debut for Eagles (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/08/24/2020.ap.fbn.steelers.eagles.0693/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (24.08.2006 15:38)

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by DB on Aug 25^th, 2006, 5:16pm

Hey Philly, what's the dilly on Ryan Moats? Does this guy have value?... which is to say does he get the ball if Westbrook goes down? Steven Davis? Maybe that will become apparent tonight. ?.?.?

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 26^th, 2006, 8:29am

The wildcard will be Buckhalter. Moats will likely become the feature back if BWB goes down, but he won't be a workhorse. If you look at his best game last year, he rushed for 110 yards and a couple TDs, but he did it on only 11 carries, so he's not going to be a featured feature back.

Davis, if he doesn't sign with anyone before the season starts, is an option. The Eagles won't sign him before then because it would be too risky to guarantee his salary for the season with his injury issues.

So I'd venture a guess that the top 3 Eagles RBs will be BWB, Moats, and Buckhalter (who has appeared to be healthy thus far). I wouldn't bother drafting Moats unless you already own Westbrook.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Callie on Aug 28^th, 2006, 4:50pm

Eagles make deal for Stallworth (http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/5913516)
Fox Sports(08/28/06)
The Philadelphia Eagles, long looking for help in the receiving corps, have finally found their man.

Does this kill Baskett's hopes?

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by PrimeTime on Aug 28^th, 2006, 5:33pm

Assuming Stallworth can learn the offense quickly and assume the #2 WR role, then Baskett will move to #3 or #4 depending on where Lewis ends up. I would certainly be leery of drafting Baskett now.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 28^th, 2006, 5:46pm

Essentially, the Eagles now have two #2 WRs in Donte Stallworth and Reggie Brown. I could see Baskett remaining the #3 and Lewis being #4. I would not be surprised to see either Pinkston or Gaffney (or both?) on the cut list next week. Avant has played well enough to make the team. Bloom will end up on IR, and McCants is likely gone too.

The Eagles still need a big receiver (a role that neither Brown nor Stallworth can fill), so Baskett has a place on this team and could be a red zone target this season. I wouldn't count on him for big numbers this season, but he'll be involved.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by cwhams on Aug 28^th, 2006, 6:38pm

Good bye Mr. Pinkston. :'(

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by StegRock on Aug 30^th, 2006, 4:52am

Comings and goings... An anticipated #1 [smiley=pimpin.gif] enters while an Olympic skier [smiley=snowman.gif] departs (but at least isn't cut)... From "The REAL Feed":

Stallworth expected to fill No. 1 receiver spot for Eagles (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/football/nfl/wires/08/29/2020.ap.fbn.eagles.stallworth.1st.ld.writethru.0685/index.html)
SI.com: NFL (29.08.2006 21:13)

Eagles place Olympian Bloom on IR (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2565415&campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines)
ESPN: NFL (29.08.2006 17:31)
The Philadelphia Eagles placed fifth-round draft pick and former Olympian Jeremy Bloom on injured reserve Tuesday after he missed most of training camp with an injured hamstring.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 30^th, 2006, 9:53am

Pinkston Odd Man Out? (http://phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/99-08302006-704946.html?referrer=email)

Joel Segal (a good buddy of Len Pasquarelli at ESPN) indicated that the Eagles have told him that he can shop Pinky around to see if there are any buyers. Len/Joel indicated that at least three teams are interested, however I doubt that is true.

I'd look for Pinkston to be cut following the final pre-season game this Friday.

Title: Re: Eagles Offseason Report
Post by Philly on Aug 30^th, 2006, 4:26pm

Pink(y) Slip for Eagles WR (http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/PHI/9628125)

Todd Pinkston has been cut, less than 24 hours after the team told him that he and his agent could seek a trade. Despite Len Pasquarelli's insistence that at least three NFL teams were clamoring for the services of this future Hall of Famer (sarcasm intended), the Eagles were content to take nothing in return and merely waived him.

The Eagles also signed former Eagle QB AJ Feeley to a two-year deal. The Eagles originally drafted Feeley and then traded him prior to the 2004 season for a 2nd round pick. Now they get him back and still have the player (Reggie Brown) they drafted with the pick. This signing also signaled the end of a long ride for Koy Detmer. The writing was on the wall when the Eagles signed Jeff Garcia in the off-season and then had Dirk Johnson serve as holder for field goals, formerly a task that Detmer specialized in.