Like Many, Eagles Fan Is Torn Between Team Loyalty and Public Opinion

Admit it, your heart sank to the floor the moment you found out the Philadelphia Eagles signed convicted felon Michael Vick.

It doesn’t make you a bad fan.

I currently reside in Chicago , and I got no fewer than 12 text messages the moment the story broke.  The common question was, “Are you going to be a Bears fan now?” 

I am a self-proclaimed animal lover, and I have a big problem with anything concerning death and the mistreatment of any living creature.  The thought of what Vick did sickens me to the very core.  

At the same time, the Eagles are my team.  It would speak volumes about my loyalty if I tore down the Midnight Green flags hanging in my bedroom and packed up my jersey collection.

So what is an Eagle fan to do? 

It seems to be a no-win situation either way.  On one hand, you want to trust the judgment of such a highly-respected organization. On the other, you will be chastised by the public for “condoning” the past behavior of a single player. 

That is just how it works.

So this is exactly why I am staying put.  Just like with any other decision, choices made while emotions are high are rarely the correct ones.  And while I will certainly not be donning the No. 7 any time soon, I think it’s only fair to let the guy try to earn his redemption. 

For all we know, he could never see a single snap all season.  His first preseason game promises to be a circus, as fans and protesters alike will be lining up to see what becomes of this man on the football field.

To some people, the fact that I have not renounced my association with the Eagles means I am sympathizing with Vick.  I have been criticized on a consistent basis since the announcement, even though I have not made a statement either way.  

Any neutrality in the situation seems to evoke a passionate response from either side.

I am not sure I will ever get to the point where I will be rooting for Vick’s personal success, but I will always be hoping for the best for the Eagles.  If Andy Reid believes that this is a move that will bring them in that direction, well, I think it’s worth a look.

I am not saying we should be his biggest fan.  I am merely suggesting that everyone just take a step back and observe the situation for a bit before making a decision.

This drama will be long forgotten come February.  The Eagles are poised to do some real damage this year and I, for one, can’t wait to see it.  

Eagles ready to contend despite subpar preseason.

Okay, Eagles fans, let’s all collectively take a deep breath.

Feel better?  

I know we can be a passionate bunch, but the preseason is no reason to get tied in a knot. The Lions went undefeated last preseason for goodness sake. It means nothing.

Injury has been a dirty word for those who reside in Philly, as it seems whenever I turn my head I am reading about another Eagle going down.

It’s still going to be okay.

Points worth mentioning:

• DeSean Jackson has looked amazing as of late, and his touchdown catch against the Colts was flawless. As we have been reading since the beginning of camp, no one can cover him. He is going to be an impressive receiver lined up for another breakout year.
• LeSean McCoy seems to look as good as everyone says. It is very encouraging to see how similar he is to Westbrook. It’s great to have another rushing, receiving, and blocking threat on the team.
• The O-line has huge potential, although there is a huge question mark hanging over them, as injuries have taken its toll on one of our perceived strengths entering this season.
• On defense, the loss of Stewart Bradley was a shot to the heart. Andy Reid seems to have faith in Joe Mays and Omar Gaither, although certainly neither will be Bradley.
• Jeremy Maclin has been less than impressive after his holdout. In my opinion, Demps should stay in his slot as kick returner until Maclin has had some time to adjust. It is definitely not a position in need.
• Whether I’d like to admit it or not, the potential contribution of Michael Vick will be an important factor for this team. He could play in his first game this Thursday.

The Eagles Have Options

With all effort being put towards solidifying the O-line this offseason, most fans think it’s time to start finding a new home for the ball once it leaves Donovan McNabb’s hands and the line of scrimmage.

Let’s discuss the options:

1. Trade (potentially) a first and third-round pick for Anquan Boldin. 

The thinking here is that he is already an established WR and would be the perfect powerful complement to a small and speedy DeSean Jackson.  He would be the receiver with the size that would allow him to fight for those extra few yards, and a big target for McNabb. 

The downside to this would be the loss of the Eagles’ final first-round pick and two picks overall.  The Eagles love their draft picks, so while other teams may all but give their draft picks away, it is very hard for Philly.  Plus, they would have a write up a new contract for Boldin, which after the Jason Peters trade probably doesn’t sound very appetizing to the front office.

2. Package draft picks to move up in the draft (if needed) to choose Knowshon Moreno.

Taking a “wait and see” approach to whether or not Moreno will be around at number 21 may cost the Eagles dearly—or it could very well pay off for them.  It’s a gamble.  Moreno is projected to be taken at the mid to late first round, but he could go sooner. 

Moreno would be perfect for the Eagles.  I believe I’ve been through this before, so I won’t repeat myself (too much).  He is a dominate, Westbrook-like player who is an all-around threat.  In the past two seasons, he has made 53 catches. 

3. Take Brandon Pettigrew with the 21^st over all pick.

If you ask Brent Celek, he will tell you the Eagles will take Moreno and then he will assure you that they are not in need of a TE.  I beg to differ.  Celek really did show signs of his potential last year when he replaced LJ Smith, but his blocking leaves something to be desired. 

Brandon Pettigrew is being touted as the only complete blocking and receiving tight end in the draft.  Having him on the line would only help the team and add depth to a position that has been lacking.

4. Trade a second or third round pick for Tony Gonzalez from Kansas City.

A deal was this close to being finalized last year, but it fell apart at the last minute.  Even last year, the Eagles recognized their need at this position.  Granted, Gonzalez is 33 and probably only has a few years left in him, but I think a third round for him would be a great deal for a player that would make an immediate impact on the team. 

The guy can block, and he can catch.  He had a great season last year where he caught 96 passes.  He is an established player and would be a great fit for the Eagles for a few years.

In my dream world, the Eagles would find a way to get Moreno and Gonzalez, but in reality, any of these scenarios would make Philadelphia a better team overall and a bigger offensive threat on a team that already has a terrifying defense. 

Most of the major holes in the team have been filled, and I think it’s about time they add a little excitement to the mix.

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