The Eagles picked up Pro Bowler Jason Peters from the Bills, bolstering a running game already anchored by Brian Westbrook. (By Hunter Martin -- Getty Images)
Pieces Are in Place for McNabb to Deliver Title
The Eagles uncharacteristically were among the most active teams in the offseason, and those moves have elevated the runners-up in the NFC championship game into a strong Super Bowl contender.
Philadelphia signed free agent guard Stacy Andrews and traded three draft picks for Pro Bowl tackle Jason Peters. The Eagles also signed free agent safeties Sean Jones and Rashad Baker and fullback Leonard Weaver. Most recently they restructured the contract of quarterback Donovan McNabb.
"Last year we were just that close. I think we can get over that hump and finish this thing off," McNabb told reporters during a news conference to announce his new deal.
The addition of Peters and Weaver signals perhaps a fresh commitment to the running game. The Eagles just have to hope Pro Bowl running back Brian Westbrook's surgically repaired ankle holds up. Otherwise, they might have to rely on second-round pick LeSean McCoy. Weaver should help in short-yardage situations, which plagued the Eagles last season.
The Eagles added another speedy and shifty wide receiver to go along with DeSean Jackson in rookie Jeremy Maclin, who also excels as a kick returner.
The most notable loss was free agent safety Brian Dawkins, one of the most respected leaders in the lockerroom and the defensive face of the franchise.
-- Gene Wang
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