2008 NFL Preview > Philadelphia Eagles Preview

2008 Philadelphia Eagles Football Preview

Head Coach: Andy Reid

2007 Record: 8-8

Key Additions: OLB Rocky Boiman, RB Lorenzo Booker, DE Chris Clemons, G Mike McGlynn, WR DeSean Jackson, DT Trevor Laws, CB Asante Samuel

Key Losses: DE Jevon Kearse, CB William James-Petersen, RS Reno Mahe, OLB Takeo Spikes

There have been rumblings out of Philadelphia that if the Eagles fail to make the playoffs again both Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb could be in serious trouble. The Eagles drafted quarterback Kevin Kolb with their first selection in the 2007 draft and McNabb was not pleased that the team did not feel a sense of urgency to fill other pressing needs. Also, some media outlets questioned last year whether Andy Reid’s personal situation may have hindered his ability to coach the team, a somewhat nefarious claim, but one that was made nonetheless.

2008 Philadelphia Eagles Offense:

McNabb’s knee should be back to full strength this season after tearing his ACL nearly two years ago, which should allow him more mobility to escape the rush this season. The oft-injured quarterback must prove that he can stay healthy for a full season. Unfortunately for the birds, top wide receiver Kevin Curtis had surgery this past week on a sports hernia and his availability for the start of the regular season is in doubt. All Pro running back Brian Westbrook will continue to delight Eagles fans with his versatility as both a runner and receiver. Tight End L.J. Shelton is looking to rebound from a sub par performance in 2007. The Eagles offensive line struggled to protect the passer last year and allowed 49 sacks, an abominable number, especially for a west coast offense that emphasizes short, quick passes. Also, guard Shawn Andrews’ status for the season is in flux, as he recently admitted that he has been battling depression for the past year. Tackles Tra Thomas and Jon Runyan are getting older, and provided Andrews is feeling healthy enough to play, the Eagles could opt to move him to tackle and start a younger guard such as rookie Mike McGlynn or second year player Max Jean Giles. Reggie Brown is a solid number two receiver but could be pushed by 2 nd round draft pick DeSean Jackson in the future.

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2008 Philadelphia Eagles Defense:

The Eagles defense was the team’s strength last year, especially its capability against the run, which can be attributed foremost to the play of a pair of former first round defensive tackles: Broderick Bunkley and Mike Patterson. Trent Cole registered a career high 12.5 sacks last season from position at right end. The linebacking unit is comprised of starters Chris Gocong, Stewart Bradley, and Omar Gaither, a no-name but underrated group. The secondary features big name talent such as Asante Samuel, the team’s prized offseason acquisition addition, Sheldon Brown, and Brian Dawkins, who will turn 35 in October and was hampered by a neck injury last season. Displaced starter Lito Sheppard has asked to be traded.

2008 Philadelphia Eagles Special Teams:

DeSean Jackson could provide the Eagles with some big plays on punt returns. Lorenzo Booker is penciled in as the starting kick returner. Place kicker David Akers is back for his 10th straight season in Philadelphia.

2008 Philadelphia Eagles Expectations:

With a solid defense and a fully healthy McNabb, the Eagles are prime contenders to challenge for a playoff spot in the NFC. However, McNabb’s health and consistency are vital to the Eagles success and possibly even his long term future in Philadelphia. Fortunately, McNabb has arguably the best supporting cast around him since Terrell Owens sniveled and pouted his way out of the city of brotherly love. Lastly, good luck to the NFL in imposing its new fan conduct policy at “the Link.”

2008 Philadelphia Eagles Prediction: 2nd place in the NFC East

By Glenn Katzman
ProFootball-fans.com Staff Writer

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