Shocking Oversight

I have to admit, I'm kind of amazed that Mr. Positive missed the opportunity to mention that the chances of Brian Dawkins returning after the 2008 season are at least somewhat enhanced by the fact that there's not a single other safety on the roster who's proven he's a legitimate NFL starter. 

Maybe he's turning over a new leaf?

Comments

[BrianS]

I hope they extend him. I can't imagine #20 on another team.

[Me]

It really all comes down to how he plays. Given that there's really not a big-time name sitting behind him waiting to take the field, if he bounces back this year they'll figure out a way to make it work.

It was only a year ago that Jim Johnson was talking about how Dawk hadn't lost a step and was still a great player in this defense.

If he struggles again this year, with injuries or otherwise, then the decision will end up being to retire or move on.

No one wants to see that.

[Cornelius]

What are you talking about? Mikell played well last season. Andy Reid said he was playing at a pro bowl. AR doesn't say that kind of thing often.

[Me]

You're right. This is what Reid said:

"Quintin Mikell is another one. Quintin, by the end of the season, was playing at a Pro Bowl caliber level as a safety. We knew what a great special teams player he was. He became an even better safety."

He also extolled the play of J.R. Reed:

"J.R. Reed. You need those kind of guys on your football team. Guys that have been though some adversity, have overcome the adversity and cherish every day that they have to play this game."

http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=14921

A couple things there, however. The first is that the Eagles still need a guy who can play the free safety position, should Dawkins retire.

The second is that when it comes to Mikell as a starter, I'm not convinced. I think the guy is great playing situationally. He's very good in the box and down by the goal line. I'm just not as convinced about his ability to play in space.

I saw a few plays last year where he may or may not have been at fault in the coverage not being there (it's not always easy to tell what the scheme is on TV). I have a feeling that teams are going to target him this year -- because with Samuel/Sheppard/Brown and a (hopefully healthy) Dawkins out there they have to go somewhere -- and I'm not sure he's going to hold up.

Remember too that Mikell ran a 4.58 coming out of college.

I guess we'll know for sure in a few months, but if you're looking for realistic areas of concern, the SS position has to be up there.

[Cornelius]

Of course only time will tell but Mikell deserves the benefit of the doubt based on his performance.

Andy said Sheldon can play anywhere in the secondary. They have the option of moving him to free safety in 2009.