The Philadelphia Eagles made big changes this offseason. Running back Brian Westbrook, right guard Shawn Andrews and cornerback Sheldon Brown are not wearing green this time around.
But the most noticeable absence is undoubtedly that of the Eagles’ quarterback of the lasts eleven seasons, Donovan McNabb.
The Eagles made a bold move in trading McNabb to a division rival, Washington Redskins team.
During McNabb’s tenure with the Eagles, he led them to four NFC East Division championships, five NFC Championship Games, and one Super Bowl appearance.
McNabb was the face of the Eagles for eleven seasons, and it’s easy to forget how the young Syracuse prospect began his career. In 2000, he set the record for rushing yards by a quarterback in a season with 629. McNabb slowly morphed into a pocket passer, declining in yards rushed in each of his next five seasons.
The veteran quarterback will be remembered for leading the Eagles to the playoffs year after year but, sadly, never getting them a Super Bowl victory.
This season, the Eagles have the relatively inexperienced Kevin Kolb at quarterback. His back-up, the dangerously athletic Michael Vick, has proven himself. Also on offense are three very young but scary players: Running back LeSean McCoy and wide receivers Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson.
Each of these players help make up the quick strike dynamic of the Eagles’ offense.
The Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) have a promising season ahead of them. This year, winning any division game will be a dogfight (Sorry Vick, I know you’re finished with that).
The Cowboys (0-2), Redskins (1-1) and Giants (1-1) all are expecting playoff spots, while a maximum of two of the four teams will be in this December. With the combination of a steady quarterback, and a few play makers rising to their full potential, the Eagles are quietly in the hunt for an NFC East Division championship.