** Official ** Eagles 2008 Thread (3 Viewers)

[LILB811]

I'm thinking that March is way more important for 2008 than the draft. I guess that goes without saying, but expect the draft to be about 2009/10 (more later).In free agency, I expect LJ to return at TE but also a WR to come to roost. I don't know if we can get a big name like Randy Moss (Eagles fans should root for the Pats to win, giving him a ring - one more reason to root against the Giants). Moss may want to go to another club that is close and try and put them over the top. Wishful thinking? Maybe, but that's what I have for now....Second choice is a big WR1 who can get off the line. Hackett comes to mind, but I think Bryant Johnson isn't a bad call either. Berrian? I'm not seeing him as an improvement over Kevin Curtis. Maybe I'm wrong (he may have size on him, but not speed I'd say).For once LB is a strength. RB is solid with Westy and CBuck, maybe even Tony Hunt. Special teams, DBs, the lines and depth must improve (esp. front 4 DL push). Maybe Abiamiri contributes, but then again a free agent DT might be a good idea too.As for the draft? I've heard that Philly has a lot of picks, which is good. They did ok last year at the draft, but some DBs wound up on other teams (taken from the practice squad). That can't happen again. Philly needs DB help and I expect a CB/KR/PR threat to be the first pick. That'd be a great start.I expect that the DB depth and both lines depth will be bolstered at the draft in April. May not be sexy, but they are building for the future now in the draft, and building for the Superbowl in 12 months via free agency. McNabb (must stay this year), Westy, BDawkins and LSheppard aren't getting any younger, nor is Runyan. Time to make a push for the playoffs NOW. I expect some skills players to be drafted (a RB, a QB even, and a WR) but the RB/WR must be able to contribute on ST. That's key. The Green Bay set the tone last year and that cannot happen again. Speed and restocking the roster will be the Draft Day strategy.So bring me Hackett and a DT/DE for some inside push and let's grab a nickel / dime corner(s) in April and go for it. Lastly - Mikell >>>> Considine. Thanks for playing.

Jeff, I agree with most of what you say, specifically how damage must be done in free agency instead of the draft. The only disagreement is with LJ Smith and the Wide Receiver situation. Instead of signing LJ and bringing in a mid-level receiver (Hackett, Bryant Johnson - I'd probably be OK with Berrian because of his downfield ability), I'd take that money and throw it at a big name receiver.LJ and Hackett made about $2.5 million combined last year, and no doubt they will be looking for a raise. I think they should go out and get someone like Chad Johnson, Roy Williams, or Javon Walker (despite the injury risk), provided their teams make them available. You know that these guys will make an impact and make things much easier on Curtis and Brown. I also don't think that having Celek and Schobel at TE is really much of a downgrade from LJ, who has caught more than 4 balls once since week 2 of 2006. Is it riskier? Sure. But I think without making a bold move, it will be difficult to think about a Super Bowl.

 

[redman]

I'm thinking that March is way more important for 2008 than the draft. I guess that goes without saying, but expect the draft to be about 2009/10 (more later).In free agency, I expect LJ to return at TE but also a WR to come to roost. I don't know if we can get a big name like Randy Moss (Eagles fans should root for the Pats to win, giving him a ring - one more reason to root against the Giants). Moss may want to go to another club that is close and try and put them over the top. Wishful thinking? Maybe, but that's what I have for now....Second choice is a big WR1 who can get off the line. Hackett comes to mind, but I think Bryant Johnson isn't a bad call either. Berrian? I'm not seeing him as an improvement over Kevin Curtis. Maybe I'm wrong (he may have size on him, but not speed I'd say).For once LB is a strength. RB is solid with Westy and CBuck, maybe even Tony Hunt. Special teams, DBs, the lines and depth must improve (esp. front 4 DL push). Maybe Abiamiri contributes, but then again a free agent DT might be a good idea too.As for the draft? I've heard that Philly has a lot of picks, which is good. They did ok last year at the draft, but some DBs wound up on other teams (taken from the practice squad). That can't happen again. Philly needs DB help and I expect a CB/KR/PR threat to be the first pick. That'd be a great start.I expect that the DB depth and both lines depth will be bolstered at the draft in April. May not be sexy, but they are building for the future now in the draft, and building for the Superbowl in 12 months via free agency. McNabb (must stay this year), Westy, BDawkins and LSheppard aren't getting any younger, nor is Runyan. Time to make a push for the playoffs NOW. I expect some skills players to be drafted (a RB, a QB even, and a WR) but the RB/WR must be able to contribute on ST. That's key. The Green Bay set the tone last year and that cannot happen again. Speed and restocking the roster will be the Draft Day strategy.So bring me Hackett and a DT/DE for some inside push and let's grab a nickel / dime corner(s) in April and go for it. Lastly - Mikell >>>> Considine. Thanks for playing.

Interesting that you didn't list Stallworth among the WR's who you indicated you wanted/liked. I thought he looked good in that offense in 2006. Was that an oversight or have you soured on him?

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Interesting that you didn't list Stallworth among the WR's who you indicated you wanted/liked. I thought he looked good in that offense in 2006. Was that an oversight or have you soured on him?

I don't view him as a WR1.He did okay, but again against tougher press coverage IIRC he disappeared.

 

[Cable]

I'm thinking that March is way more important for 2008 than the draft. I guess that goes without saying, but expect the draft to be about 2009/10 (more later).

This, above all else, is why I cannot stand the Eagles current approach to personnel. Why draft someone only to have them sit for 2-3 years? Essentially the Eagles are stating that even though we are an 8-8 (read average) team, 2 or 3 of the top 96 players in college football today cannot do anything to help us THIS year. I realize that the draft is to build for the future, but to ignore present needs is maddening. Not one 2007 rookie made an impact for an 8-8 Eagles team....IF they even made the team.

I'd like a change of philosophy in many ways.

How about they quit BSing us about being only a player or 2 away from contention? That is an insulting, bold-faced, out-right lie. Who do they think they are fooling? Yeah, we just have to replace Reno Mahe and Greg Lewis then we can start building that cabinet for the Lombardi.

How about being aggressive in free agency? In 2007 the Eagles were so slow out of the gate it was like they didn't even know free agency had started. Then when they finally got it together, most teams had finished shopping. They cannot be passive like that again.

Most of all I'd like to see the Eagles go into this offseason with a sense of urgency. Get players that can contribute now in both free agency and the draft.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Jeff, I agree with most of what you say, specifically how damage must be done in free agency instead of the draft. The only disagreement is with LJ Smith and the Wide Receiver situation. Instead of signing LJ and bringing in a mid-level receiver (Hackett, Bryant Johnson - I'd probably be OK with Berrian because of his downfield ability), I'd take that money and throw it at a big name receiver.LJ and Hackett made about $2.5 million combined last year, and no doubt they will be looking for a raise. I think they should go out and get someone like Chad Johnson, Roy Williams, or Javon Walker (despite the injury risk), provided their teams make them available. You know that these guys will make an impact and make things much easier on Curtis and Brown. I also don't think that having Celek and Schobel at TE is really much of a downgrade from LJ, who has caught more than 4 balls once since week 2 of 2006. Is it riskier? Sure. But I think without making a bold move, it will be difficult to think about a Super Bowl.

Don't use prior salary as an indication of talent - at all. Rookies make << first round picks - but I'd take Ryan Grant over Cedric Benson any day.Berrian has downfield ability - if he can get downfield. I don't believe that he can get downfield enough over a full season in the NFC East.Hackett and BJohnson can beat jams, and that's what I want to see. Having a speedster already (KCurtis) doesn't really make me envious of another one. I want (A) hands, (B) size and © ability to beat press coverage from my WR1. Stretching the field is a nice bonus - but that's an elite WR skill (to have all 4 traits).Chad, RoyW and JWalker are all viable WR1s. I don't know if any of them will be available, but if they are the Eagles must be in the running, Hopefully the history of their success in the past 5-7 years sways someone to sign up, even for one year. JWalker might be the right risk/reward for a 1-year deal if he can be a stud and make the postseason then have the chance to sign another deal and/or go elsewhere in 2009.

 

[LILB811]

Jeff, I agree with most of what you say, specifically how damage must be done in free agency instead of the draft. The only disagreement is with LJ Smith and the Wide Receiver situation. Instead of signing LJ and bringing in a mid-level receiver (Hackett, Bryant Johnson - I'd probably be OK with Berrian because of his downfield ability), I'd take that money and throw it at a big name receiver.LJ and Hackett made about $2.5 million combined last year, and no doubt they will be looking for a raise. I think they should go out and get someone like Chad Johnson, Roy Williams, or Javon Walker (despite the injury risk), provided their teams make them available. You know that these guys will make an impact and make things much easier on Curtis and Brown. I also don't think that having Celek and Schobel at TE is really much of a downgrade from LJ, who has caught more than 4 balls once since week 2 of 2006. Is it riskier? Sure. But I think without making a bold move, it will be difficult to think about a Super Bowl.

Don't use prior salary as an indication of talent - at all. Rookies make << first round picks - but I'd take Ryan Grant over Cedric Benson any day.Berrian has downfield ability - if he can get downfield. I don't believe that he can get downfield enough over a full season in the NFC East.Hackett and BJohnson can beat jams, and that's what I want to see. Having a speedster already (KCurtis) doesn't really make me envious of another one. I want (A) hands, (B) size and © ability to beat press coverage from my WR1. Stretching the field is a nice bonus - but that's an elite WR skill (to have all 4 traits).Chad, RoyW and JWalker are all viable WR1s. I don't know if any of them will be available, but if they are the Eagles must be in the running, Hopefully the history of their success in the past 5-7 years sways someone to sign up, even for one year. JWalker might be the right risk/reward for a 1-year deal if he can be a stud and make the postseason then have the chance to sign another deal and/or go elsewhere in 2009.

I really did not mean to imply anything with prior salary. For the veteran free agent players, however, the salary that they demand on the open market is indicative of talent and prior performance. For that reason, I think it would be wiser to invest the same money they'd be spending on 2 players (LJ and another WR) on 1 more talented WR, provided one is available. I think this would give the team a better chance to win.Hackett and Bryant Johnson if brought in would be going up against the top corner for most other teams. Can they beat jams against the best? I don't know. I want the same 3 things as you do from the WR1 spot, I'm just not sure that any of the free agent WR's will be able to bring that to the table if they are slated as a #1 receiver.

 

[scratcher]

Just a little fuel to the fire.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports the Ravens are "seriously considering" pursuing Donovan McNabb in an offseason trade.Mortensen says any deal would have to include the Ravens' No. 8 overall pick, which the Eagles could use on a wideout, defensive end, or offensive tackle. Mort also confirms that, while it may seem awkward, re-acquiring Derek Anderson is a distinct possibility for Baltimore. It is pretty clear that the Ravens intend to upgrade their quarterback situation this offseason.

 

[LTsharks]

Just placed the franchise tag on LJ, so it looks like he will be back next year.

LJ Smith Franchised

 

[Lehigh98]

Just a little fuel to the fire.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports the Ravens are "seriously considering" pursuing Donovan McNabb in an offseason trade.Mortensen says any deal would have to include the Ravens' No. 8 overall pick, which the Eagles could use on a wideout...

I think the Eagles must realize they suck at picking WR's high by now.

 

[redman]

Just a little fuel to the fire.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports the Ravens are "seriously considering" pursuing Donovan McNabb in an offseason trade.Mortensen says any deal would have to include the Ravens' No. 8 overall pick, which the Eagles could use on a wideout...

I think the Eagles must realize they suck at picking WR's high by now.

That just means they're due.

 

[phillyfan72]

Just a little fuel to the fire.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports the Ravens are "seriously considering" pursuing Donovan McNabb in an offseason trade.Mortensen says any deal would have to include the Ravens' No. 8 overall pick, which the Eagles could use on a wideout...

I think the Eagles must realize they suck at picking WR's high by now.

That just means they're due.

Even if that deal goes down, which I don't think it will, I don't think they pick a WR at #8. They hardly ever pick a WR that high and if they do get that pick, I think they use it on a CB or S.

 

[ThePassion]

I just cannot see the Eagles moving McNabb and then trying to rebuild with Kolb as the guy in 2008. That would be a major shocker and a bad decision in my opinion. They have to ride the McNabb train for one more year... have to! They have too many older core players that will be gone in the next few years to say let's move on and start over. The Oline is solid but in a year or so it will be without Tra and Runyan... what about Bwest??? The Eagles cannot expect another 4 solid years out of that guy. The D does appear to have some youth but Dawk is also on his way out after a year or two.

Bwest and Donovan have to be a part of the puzzle for the birds to be successful next year... how successful those two can be really depends on what Management does in the offseason though.

Go get a WR, go get another Safety, get a DE and lets make a run.

Maybe as a young Eagles fan I am just trying to hang on to the McNabb Reid Era, but I don't see why you do not give it one more year with McNabb. After all, Kolb will be there waiting if all goes wrong anyway.

PS

I want an Eagles #85 Johnson jersey...

 

[renesauz]

For those trying to bash the Birds, saying how "far away" they are, I have a question.

How often does a team finish top ten in offensive yards gained, defensive yds allowed, and NOT have a playoff caliber team? They finished 8 - 8 with what, in hindsight, was one of the toughest schedules in the NFL last year, if not the toughest.

The Eagles were inconsistant last season, but not bad...not by a long stretch. They really are just a couple of playmakers away. Kolb may or may not be the future, but he can't be the present...the team is just TOO CLOSE!

LJ Smith will be overpaid this season...but there is nothing better in free agency, and the draft will give us nothing to work with THIS YEAR. With all of the available cap space...I have no poblem with franchising LJ.

The draft will be about 2 years down the road....CB's and safeties to provide depth now, and replace Dawkins in a year or two.

FA should be about upgrading DE if possible, WR if possible. Who is out there that can help????

 

[Slider]

If the Eagles trade McNabb and sign Fitzgerald they would be smart and just fine next year. This is clearly the time to move McNabb. I saw a rumor over on KFFL about Fitz. Nothing concrete though.

 

[phillyfan72]

I just cannot see the Eagles moving McNabb and then trying to rebuild with Kolb as the guy in 2008. That would be a major shocker and a bad decision in my opinion. They have to ride the McNabb train for one more year... have to! They have too many older core players that will be gone in the next few years to say let's move on and start over. The Oline is solid but in a year or so it will be without Tra and Runyan... what about Bwest??? The Eagles cannot expect another 4 solid years out of that guy. The D does appear to have some youth but Dawk is also on his way out after a year or two. Bwest and Donovan have to be a part of the puzzle for the birds to be successful next year... how successful those two can be really depends on what Management does in the offseason though.Go get a WR, go get another Safety, get a DE and lets make a run.Maybe as a young Eagles fan I am just trying to hang on to the McNabb Reid Era, but I don't see why you do not give it one more year with McNabb. After all, Kolb will be there waiting if all goes wrong anyway.PSI want an Eagles #85 Johnson jersey...

, except for the #85 jersey.This is exactly what the Eagles should do. Go for one more run with McNabb and co. and sign a free agent or 2. DJ Hackett would be nice to see in an Eagle uniform. I would love to have Fitzgerald but I think his contract would be too much as his cap # in Arizona next year is huge. I don't even want to entertain Chad Johnson, we don't need another T.O. Go get a solid receiver, a DE opposite Cole, and a safety and have a good draft and we will be very competitive next year.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Philly needs DB help and I expect a CB/KR/PR threat to be the first pick. That'd be a great start.

Yeah. The more I think about it, the more I'd like us to take McKelvin.

 

[Zoomanji]

If the Eagles trade McNabb and sign Fitzgerald they would be smart and just fine next year. This is clearly the time to move McNabb. I saw a rumor over on KFFL about Fitz. Nothing concrete though.

And who throws the ball to Fitz if the move McNabb? Feeley? Kolb isn't ready.I'd rather have a Pro-bowl QB than a guy who is essentially a rookie.

 

[renesauz]

If those down on McNabb are right, and he gets hurt again, we will have lost nothing but whatever he'd have garnered in a trade, and they'll still get to see Kolb play.

This is really a win/win situation for the Eagles. There are much much worse things that can happen to a team then to have two starting caliber QB's. (And that's assuming Kolb is starting caliber...hardly a given!) I just can't see any real good reason to let McNabb go.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB.

As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

 

[Snotbubbles]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

 

[Cable]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

The problem with that is that all of our starters are fairly entrenched, the exception being Herremans at LG, and I think the Eagles will give Jean-Gilles every chance to win the LG spot. What quality OLineman is going to come here to be a backup for at least a year? Or better yet, would the Eagles pay big money for a free agent to be a backup? We needed some of those 4th-7th round projects to develop.

 

[ThePassion]

Well to address the post above, I'm not sure where you are going with this... Thomas and Runyan have another year in them that is for sure, they are not spring chickens but if the Birds make a run for it they will be depending on another year out of those two guys without a doubt. You can't plan for injury.

This goes along with my train of thought that they have to make one last push with McNabb. If it fails oh well you have Kolb AND THEN you start to build around him. There will have to be a lot of change once Kolb takes over.... I mean I figure he will need two years to get up to speed. In that time you will lose a lot of older key guys like Runyan and Thomas and Dawk and you will need to be relying on the Birds ability to draft. This is when you start bringing in new linemen (no need to sign someone to backup Tra or Runyan, let a draft pick or one of the young kids we already have do this for now).

I tend to think about Denver a few years back. They were a playoff caliber squad and had Plummer with Cutler waiting to take over. They got rid of Plummer to give the kid a chance and he had done well but they have not made it to the playoffs or far into the playoffs with Cutler (not exactly sure if they've even made it but thats not the point)... in the mean time they have had to begin a transition and bring in new guys and rely on their younger players to step up as their old core moves on (Al Wilson/Rod Smith).

Kolb is an unknown at this point... McNabb has the potential to take the Birds to the Super Bowl, I believe that is a fact. So let's roll the dice with 5 one more time. We've seen what he can do when healthy and when surrounded by the right players.

I just hope Andy steps up to the plate.

 

[Slider]

If the Eagles trade McNabb and sign Fitzgerald they would be smart and just fine next year. This is clearly the time to move McNabb. I saw a rumor over on KFFL about Fitz. Nothing concrete though.

And who throws the ball to Fitz if the move McNabb? Feeley? Kolb isn't ready.I'd rather have a Pro-bowl QB than a guy who is essentially a rookie.

They have a better record without McNabb than they do with him the last few years. Pro Bowl?

 

[ThePassion]

If the Eagles trade McNabb and sign Fitzgerald they would be smart and just fine next year. This is clearly the time to move McNabb. I saw a rumor over on KFFL about Fitz. Nothing concrete though.

And who throws the ball to Fitz if the move McNabb? Feeley? Kolb isn't ready.I'd rather have a Pro-bowl QB than a guy who is essentially a rookie.

They have a better record without McNabb than they do with him the last few years. Pro Bowl?

Who has a better chance of making the pro bowl next year? McNabb or Kolb?

 

[Slider]

If the Eagles trade McNabb and sign Fitzgerald they would be smart and just fine next year. This is clearly the time to move McNabb. I saw a rumor over on KFFL about Fitz. Nothing concrete though.

And who throws the ball to Fitz if the move McNabb? Feeley? Kolb isn't ready.I'd rather have a Pro-bowl QB than a guy who is essentially a rookie.

They have a better record without McNabb than they do with him the last few years. Pro Bowl?

Who has a better chance of making the pro bowl next year? McNabb or Kolb?

About even. Who has a better chance at throwing +60% or QB'ing 16 games?

 

[Novice2]

I don't even want to entertain Chad Johnson, we don't need another T.O.

Yes the Eagles do need another TO. The Eagles FO just needs to stop being cheap ### and pay star talent star $. Thrash/PinkstonCurtis/BrownWR combos will not do the job.

 

[Slider]

I don't even want to entertain Chad Johnson, we don't need another T.O.

Yes the Eagles do need another TO. The Eagles FO just needs to stop being cheap ### and pay star talent star $.

The Eagles being cheap is the most tired BS of the last 10 years. yeah they should have kept TO over McNabb but they didn't. Other than that, they won with whoever they lined up at WR.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

The problem with that is that all of our starters are fairly entrenched, the exception being Herremans at LG, and I think the Eagles will give Jean-Gilles every chance to win the LG spot. What quality OLineman is going to come here to be a backup for at least a year? Or better yet, would the Eagles pay big money for a free agent to be a backup? We needed some of those 4th-7th round projects to develop.

Runyan wanted to retire last year and Thomas could easily be cut for a 26 year old Jordan Gross. If the Birds dont do something this year or next they are in trouble.

 

[Cable]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

The problem with that is that all of our starters are fairly entrenched, the exception being Herremans at LG, and I think the Eagles will give Jean-Gilles every chance to win the LG spot. What quality OLineman is going to come here to be a backup for at least a year? Or better yet, would the Eagles pay big money for a free agent to be a backup? We needed some of those 4th-7th round projects to develop.

Runyan wanted to retire last year and Thomas could easily be cut for a 26 year old Jordan Gross. If the Birds dont do something this year or next they are in trouble.

Agreed, however Gross will be franchise tagged or signed long term by the Panthers. He's not hitting the market. The Panthers starting LT Travelle Wharton is also a UFA, he's young with and has starting experience. I doubt he'll be available though as Carolina would be smart to re-sign him also. They have the cash.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

The problem with that is that all of our starters are fairly entrenched, the exception being Herremans at LG, and I think the Eagles will give Jean-Gilles every chance to win the LG spot. What quality OLineman is going to come here to be a backup for at least a year? Or better yet, would the Eagles pay big money for a free agent to be a backup? We needed some of those 4th-7th round projects to develop.

Runyan wanted to retire last year and Thomas could easily be cut for a 26 year old Jordan Gross. If the Birds dont do something this year or next they are in trouble.

Agreed, however Gross will be franchise tagged or signed long term by the Panthers. He's not hitting the market. The Panthers starting LT Travelle Wharton is also a UFA, he's young with and has starting experience. I doubt he'll be available though as Carolina would be smart to re-sign him also. They have the cash.

Can the Panthers afford Peppers and Gross? Carolina Panthers Salary Cap Room $6.05 M There are currently 35 players under contract.They can only tag one so it could be interesting. But I am not 100% sure the above number is correct.

 

[ThePassion]

If the Eagles trade McNabb and sign Fitzgerald they would be smart and just fine next year. This is clearly the time to move McNabb. I saw a rumor over on KFFL about Fitz. Nothing concrete though.

And who throws the ball to Fitz if the move McNabb? Feeley? Kolb isn't ready.I'd rather have a Pro-bowl QB than a guy who is essentially a rookie.

They have a better record without McNabb than they do with him the last few years. Pro Bowl?

Who has a better chance of making the pro bowl next year? McNabb or Kolb?

About even. Who has a better chance at throwing +60% or QB'ing 16 games?

That is crap.... come on Kolb has no chance of making the pro bowl. There is no way to predict that either qb could play all 16 games, so throw that out the window.

 

[Cable]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

The problem with that is that all of our starters are fairly entrenched, the exception being Herremans at LG, and I think the Eagles will give Jean-Gilles every chance to win the LG spot. What quality OLineman is going to come here to be a backup for at least a year? Or better yet, would the Eagles pay big money for a free agent to be a backup? We needed some of those 4th-7th round projects to develop.

Runyan wanted to retire last year and Thomas could easily be cut for a 26 year old Jordan Gross. If the Birds dont do something this year or next they are in trouble.

Agreed, however Gross will be franchise tagged or signed long term by the Panthers. He's not hitting the market. The Panthers starting LT Travelle Wharton is also a UFA, he's young with and has starting experience. I doubt he'll be available though as Carolina would be smart to re-sign him also. They have the cash.

Can the Panthers afford Peppers and Gross? Carolina Panthers Salary Cap Room $6.05 M There are currently 35 players under contract.They can only tag one so it could be interesting. But I am not 100% sure the above number is correct.

I could be wrong, but I thought 2008 was the contract year for Peppers? Carolina is cutting vets like Mark Wahle and Dan Morgan. Others will be cut too. What about moving Jean-Gilles to LG and have Herremans as the '6th man' in 2008 and eventual starting LT for 2009? Justice may be a better RT than LT. We could use some quality depth at OLine.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

I am looking for the Eagles to reload this season. I would like to see our offensive players signed in FA/trades and look to the draft to add depth to our defense. The offense needs help right now simply because nobody knows how much longer McNabb will be an effective QB. As others mentioned I would love to see two safeties and a CB added. I would also like to see another LB and a DE. I really hope this draft leans heavily on the defensive side of the ball.

What about offensive line? Thomas and Runyan are no spring chickens.

We have sunk a fair amount of picks over the years into our O line so I would like to see the Birds get a body or two in FA. I would love to see them sign Jordan Gross (OT Panthers) or Ryan Lilja (G - Colts).

The problem with that is that all of our starters are fairly entrenched, the exception being Herremans at LG, and I think the Eagles will give Jean-Gilles every chance to win the LG spot. What quality OLineman is going to come here to be a backup for at least a year? Or better yet, would the Eagles pay big money for a free agent to be a backup? We needed some of those 4th-7th round projects to develop.

Runyan wanted to retire last year and Thomas could easily be cut for a 26 year old Jordan Gross. If the Birds dont do something this year or next they are in trouble.

Agreed, however Gross will be franchise tagged or signed long term by the Panthers. He's not hitting the market. The Panthers starting LT Travelle Wharton is also a UFA, he's young with and has starting experience. I doubt he'll be available though as Carolina would be smart to re-sign him also. They have the cash.

Can the Panthers afford Peppers and Gross? Carolina Panthers Salary Cap Room $6.05 M There are currently 35 players under contract.They can only tag one so it could be interesting. But I am not 100% sure the above number is correct.

I could be wrong, but I thought 2008 was the contract year for Peppers? Carolina is cutting vets like Mark Wahle and Dan Morgan. Others will be cut too. What about moving Jean-Gilles to LG and have Herremans as the '6th man' in 2008 and eventual starting LT for 2009? Justice may be a better RT than LT. We could use some quality depth at OLine.

Well I havent seen enough foot speed from Heermans to think he could make the move to the most important spot on the O line. I really think they need to sign a younger vet to take over that position. That is unless they believe Winston can be the man.

 

[zadok]

My thoughts on FA:

(* = unlikely to leave)

CB

A. Samuel

M. Trufant

D. Florence

C. Carr (Restricted - Undrafted)

S

G. Wilson

K. Hamlin

M. Williams

M. Doss

DE

T. Suggs *

J. Allen *

J. Smith

C. Canty (Restricted – 4th)

M. Rucker

DT

A. Haynesworth *

C. Williams (GB)

WR

R. Moss *

DJ Hackett

A. Davis

R. Williams (Trade)

J. Walker (Trade)

TE

D. Clark *

LB

L. Briggs

K. Dansby *

OL

A. Faneca

J. Gross *

M. Starks

M. Wahle

F. Womack

R. Lilja

#1 Priority to me would be Samuel. Hackett and one of those O-linemen would be sweet.

 

[zadok]

It bums be out that LJ Smith will be paid top 5 TE money when he is nowhere near a top 5 TE. I say give Celek a chance and spend the money elsewhere.

 

[zadok]

Draft thoughts:

A KR/PR/WR combo would be ideal in the 1st, but DeSean Jackson will likely be gone by pick 19. I don't like Mario Manningham. Give me Limas Sweed if you're going WR with that pick. The biggest need on the team is CB, IMHO. Lito can't stay healthy and we don't have a legit 3rd corner. Unless a top FA is signed at that position, I would want a top CB (preferably doubling as a KR/PR) at #1.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

It bums be out that LJ Smith will be paid top 5 TE money when he is nowhere near a top 5 TE. I say give Celek a chance and spend the money elsewhere.

He's getting Top 5 TE 2007 money, which may not end up as Top 5 $$, but close enough.Regardless, their options weren't good enough for 2008 to not keep him.I like the move, more so because it tells me the FO is thinking that 2008 is a critical year, which it really is. As long as they have that mentality, they should be very active and looking to make big waves in FA.If FA ends and there's not 2 or more good signings, it'll be a long, long year.

 

[ThePassion]

It bums be out that LJ Smith will be paid top 5 TE money when he is nowhere near a top 5 TE. I say give Celek a chance and spend the money elsewhere.

I like the move, more so because it tells me the FO is thinking that 2008 is a critical year, which it really is. As long as they have that mentality, they should be very active and looking to make big waves in FA.

I like that thought - didn't really see it that way but I likey.

 

[Zoomanji]

Draft thoughts:A KR/PR/WR combo would be ideal in the 1st, but DeSean Jackson will likely be gone by pick 19. I don't like Mario Manningham. Give me Limas Sweed if you're going WR with that pick. The biggest need on the team is CB, IMHO. Lito can't stay healthy and we don't have a legit 3rd corner. Unless a top FA is signed at that position, I would want a top CB (preferably doubling as a KR/PR) at #1.

I like the KR/PR/WR combo idea. Maybe they will draft one of those instead of another lineman in the 1st.Do you really think CB is more important than Safety at this point? I would look at a S first.And I really hope they aren't the team that overpays for Assante.

 

[zadok]

Draft thoughts:A KR/PR/WR combo would be ideal in the 1st, but DeSean Jackson will likely be gone by pick 19. I don't like Mario Manningham. Give me Limas Sweed if you're going WR with that pick. The biggest need on the team is CB, IMHO. Lito can't stay healthy and we don't have a legit 3rd corner. Unless a top FA is signed at that position, I would want a top CB (preferably doubling as a KR/PR) at #1.

I like the KR/PR/WR combo idea. Maybe they will draft one of those instead of another lineman in the 1st.Do you really think CB is more important than Safety at this point? I would look at a S first.And I really hope they aren't the team that overpays for Assante.

We need a S, no doubt. But not with the 1st pick. A 3rd CB would see a lot of playing time. A 4th S would not. Look at this this way; say Lito or Dawkins get hurt. Would you rather see Brown and James at CB or Mikell and Considine at S? FWIW, I think it was Sal Pal who said the Jets and the Eagles were interested in Samuel. I love the guy.

 

[Zoomanji]

Draft thoughts:A KR/PR/WR combo would be ideal in the 1st, but DeSean Jackson will likely be gone by pick 19. I don't like Mario Manningham. Give me Limas Sweed if you're going WR with that pick. The biggest need on the team is CB, IMHO. Lito can't stay healthy and we don't have a legit 3rd corner. Unless a top FA is signed at that position, I would want a top CB (preferably doubling as a KR/PR) at #1.

I like the KR/PR/WR combo idea. Maybe they will draft one of those instead of another lineman in the 1st.Do you really think CB is more important than Safety at this point? I would look at a S first.And I really hope they aren't the team that overpays for Assante.

We need a S, no doubt. But not with the 1st pick. A 3rd CB would see a lot of playing time. A 4th S would not. Look at this this way; say Lito or Dawkins get hurt. Would you rather see Brown and James at CB or Mikell and Considine at S? FWIW, I think it was Sal Pal who said the Jets and the Eagles were interested in Samuel. I love the guy.

I don't think they would be drafting a 4th safety, it would be a #2. Considine can't play. Mikell may be OK but they can do better. They would be drafting a starter IMO.Samuel doesn't make sense. Who goes to the nickle spot? Lito or Brown? They are both starters IMO. Samuel just isn't a need. (on top of it, I don't think his me first attitude would be a good fit on that D either.)Agree to disagree on him.

 

[zadok]

Agree to disagree on Considine too.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Do you really think CB is more important than Safety at this point? I would look at a S first.

The problem is that there looks to be only one safety worth taking in the first round, Kenny Phillips, and he's very likely to be gone by 19.Last year was the year to take a safety high. Why we didn't take Weddle, I dunno.

 

[zadok]

Sign Crumpler and rescind the tag on LJ.

Thoughts?

 

[Zoomanji]

Sign Crumpler and rescind the tag on LJ. Thoughts?

If the Falcons don't want him, how much could he have left?

 

[zadok]

Sign Crumpler and rescind the tag on LJ. Thoughts?

If the Falcons don't want him, how much could he have left?

He closed out the season well...

 

[TheLastDispatch]

I'd like to see Reid gone.

As much as I love McNabb, I'd also like to see him gone.

Bring in a big name WR (probably not gonna happen) and lose the overpaid rust on the D-line.

Could use some LB help too.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I'd like to see Reid gone. As much as I love McNabb, I'd also like to see him gone.Bring in a big name WR (probably not gonna happen) and lose the overpaid rust on the D-line.Could use some LB help too.

Downside is WAY too steep to ditch Reid, don't you think?LBs are a strength, not sure what you're seeing.Takeo, Omar Gaither, Gocong, even Bradley came on later in the year. I like that group.

 

[zadok]

lose the overpaid rust on the D-line.Could use some LB help too.

If the overpaid rust means Kearse and Howard, your wish may very well come true. And I agree with Jeff, the LBs actually look like a good up and coming bunch for once.