Atlanta Falcons matchup preview: Philadelphia Eagles
Oct 13, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford (8) directs the offense against the Houston Texans during the first half at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
Is Sam Bradford the answer?
FB: The Eagles weren’t far from a playoff berth in 2014. Have they addressed their biggest needs to one step further this season?
AD: As I mentioned, they still have a hole at safety. Their only legitimate options at the position are rookie Eric Rowe, who will reportedly start off his career at cornerback, Jaylen Watkins and Earl Wolff. Watkins doesn’t have any NFL in-game experience at the position and Wolff can’t stay healthy. Not addressing the position in the free agency or the draft looks like a big mistake right now.
Then there’s the right guard spot. Former starter Todd Herremans was released, although he wasn’t nearly as good as he used to be. But there aren’t any real promising replacements on the roster besides 30-year old Allen Barbre who has just 7 games of starting experience. Besides that, the “cupboard is bare,” as they say.
FB: What are your expectations for the Eagles in 2015?
AD: My expectations for the Eagles in 2015 are completely reliant on the quarterback position. If Sam Bradford can somehow stay healthy, I honestly believe the sky is the limit for this team under Kelly’s watch. But if Bradford injures himself once again, which is entirely possible, this team could be looking at another year of missing the playoffs. I believe Kelly can get the best out of his players but not having Bradford on the field significantly lowers this team’s ceiling.
FB: As you said, Bradford’s health is the biggest concern, but assuming he’s healthy is he the answer at quarterback?
AD: I’m completely sold on the idea of Bradford being the team’s answer at quarterback. He’s never been surrounded by the weapons the Eagles currently have on offense, nor the offensive line talent they have upfront either. If Bradford can stay healthy, I believe we’ll finally see the potential he’s always had put on full display. But it’ll ultimately come down to whether or not he can stay on the field, which Kelly’s sports science theories can hopefully help.
Next: Looking ahead to the Week 1 clash