Dear Tedy

Posted: February 13th, 2018 | Author: | Filed under: Philadelphia Eagles | 239 Comments »

The Eagles have done a lot of talking in the last week. They won the Super Bowl and are letting everyone know how happy they are. Former Patriots LB Tedy Bruschi isn’t happy about that, specifically Lane Johnson’s comments on the Pats.

Wow. Shots fired.

I can see where current and former Patriots would be angry at that. I don’t blame Bruschi at all for defending his former team and all they’ve accomplished.

https://twitter.com/BosSportsExtra/status/963273000966606849

What a jackass. Instead of simply going on ESPN to tell stories about how the Patriots did have fun, he decided to rip on Johnson and the Eagles. Oh he casually mentioned laughing in meetings and listening to music on planes, but a good, specific story would have carried a lot more weight than a generic “We had a lot of fun” comment.

If Bruschi wants to be mad at anyone, just look at Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. Those guys are the faces of the Patriots and they look miserable a lot of the time. Belichick’s press conferences after a loss or close game are painful to watch. He is a complete jerk to the media. Those guys are just there to do a job and he treats them with such condescension that it’s crazy. Brady is all smiles when his team does win, but won’t shake the hand of the other QB when his team loses. God forbid something goes wrong on the field during a game. Brady will storm off and scream at anyone that talks to him. The man is wildly rich, has a handful of rings and is married to Gisele Bundchen. His smile should be bigger than Max Jean-Gilles’ backside.

I get that these men are ultra-competitive and incredibly intense, but that’s not an excuse for them to act like assholes as much as they do. And listen…I have incredible respect for both. I wish they would lighten up more so they would be more likeable, especially Belichick. He is so brilliant and fascinating. I hate that he’s so miserable on the outside.

Bruschi thought up a clever line about how the Eagles will need more than celebrations, dog masks and trick plays to go back-to-back. I agree. They will need more than that. But what did we just see in Minneapolis. The Eagles won the line of scrimmage. They were the more physical team. They tackled better. They were, and this has to really hurt, the better prepared team. And as for intensity…ask Brandin Cooks which team was hitting harder.

The Eagles were the best team in September, October, November, December, January and February. And they did it all while dancing and smiling. I can’t wait to see what they do in 2018.

Lane Johnson had a much simpler and better comeback for Mr. Bruschi.

*****

In case anyone else out there is unclear on this…

This is all about roles.

The OC is the key architect of the gameplan. He’s gathering data on the opponent and then helping the play-caller to figure out which plays work best for that opponent. Frank Reich was also given control of 2-minute drives so he had to put together the best plays for those situations.

Duce Staley has never put together a gameplan. The Eagles do things in a collaborative way so he’s certainly made play suggestions, but hasn’t led the process. Jeff Stoutland is the coach tasked with planning the running game. I’m sure Staley definitely contributes to this, but Stoutland runs it.

This isn’t an insult to Duce. RBs coaches generally don’t have prominent roles on a staff. Offensive coordinators generally come from QB coaches, WR coaches or OL coaches. That’s just how things have worked the past 40 to 50 years. The real key is to understand protections and the passing game. If you are strong in those areas, you have OC potential.

I could be dead wrong and the Eagles could make Staley the OC. I’m just basing my thoughts on the way things are done on a general basis and what I know of coaches duties from the previous couple of years. Putting Staley in charge of the offense (although still under Pederson) would be a huge jump.

I do think Staley can be a head coach. He is a tough, demanding coach and excellent leader. That may sound crazy that I’d be more comfortable with him as head coach than OC, but I feel that he has the skill set to run a team more than he does to run the offense. Staley is more of a leader than an X’s and O’s guru.

As to the Press Taylor comment above…I don’t get that. Taylor has basically spent most of his life preparing for this opportunity. He played QB in high school and college. He grew up watching his father work as a football coach. He saw his brother play QB. Taylor then became a college assistant and coached QBs. He came to the NFL and learned things from the ground up. He spent the past two years working with Eagles QBs. There is a direct progression in his background that leads him to this role.

Taylor might fail, but it won’t be because he had the wrong background.

_

239 Comments on “Dear Tedy”

  1. 1 Masked Man said at 8:28 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Charles Haley refers to Cowboys as “losers”

    Posted by Darin Gantt on February 13, 2018, 6:53 AM EST

    http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/02/13/charles-haley-refers-to-cowboys-as-losers/

  2. 2 SteveH said at 8:36 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Haley gets at the heart of what makes the Cowboy’s so amazingly hateable – that they think they’re great just for putting on the jersey, instead of what they win.

  3. 3 A_T_G said at 9:35 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I’ll take any former Cowboy talking bad about the team, but Charles Haley isn’t the most stable of sources…

    “Once in a team meeting, Haley came back from the bathroom, pulled down his shorts, wiped his ass, and threw his poopy toilet paper at 49ers linebacker coach John Marshall.”

    “…Haley would stroll up to an unsuspecting teammate, whip out his phallus, and repeatedly stroke it in his face. Players initially laughed it off. But Haley refused to stop.”

    http://larrybrownsports.com/football/charles-haley-penis-masturbation/269742

  4. 4 SteveH said at 10:16 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    He used to do it during team meetings too. Dude is a legit lunatic, it’s a miracle he hasn’t been locked up.

  5. 5 ChoTime said at 10:49 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    During the same event I met Nick Foles and Deion Sanders, I saw Charles Haley. He had an aura of menace around him that none of the other players had. I steered clear.

  6. 6 xeynon said at 8:35 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Bruschi thought up a clever line about how the Eagles will need more than celebrations, dog masks and trick plays to go back-to-back.

    I disagree with the assessment of this line as “clever”.

    Yes, you need more than that to win, but as you pointed out, the Eagles had more than that. LeGarrette Blount trucking three Patriots defenders on his way to a 21 yard TD behind a crushing Celek block wasn’t a trick play. Corey Clement putting Duron Harmon on the ground with a stiffarm on a 55 yard catch and run wasn’t a trick play. The Eagles averaging over 6 YPC and not letting the Patriots lay a finger on Foles all night wasn’t the result of trick plays.

    Lane and the boys whooped the collective ass of the Patriots front 7 up and down the field in that game. The Eagles’ backs and receivers abused their secondary. I’m sure that’s gotta hurt a proud throwback guy like Bruschi, but it’s the reality.

  7. 7 Julescat said at 9:04 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Eagles need more than celebrations, dog masks and trick plays?

    should our coaches now start secretly taping the other teams’ practices?

  8. 8 Masked Man said at 9:05 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    …cameras and microphones and secret spy guys…

    lol

  9. 9 RobNE said at 9:30 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    his argument seems to be you can’t have fun and win, which is a stupid argument. Even given the “look at the one example I am giving you” is kind of small sample size? And then oh yeah, we had lots of fun (no real examples given). It’s a twofer piss poor defense. Plus, actually feeling like you needed to defend the Pats rather than just sit back and admire your rings is so beautiful. Yet again, they need affirmation from others.

  10. 10 sonofdman said at 10:34 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I love how Bruschi says that it takes “serious practices” and “goal setting,” as if the Eagles did not take their practices seriously and did not set goals. Lane’s whole point is that you can do the hard work required to win while still having fun.

  11. 11 bill said at 10:21 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I read “clever” as Tommy being sarcastic.

  12. 12 Mac said at 10:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Here’s a line from a song written by one of my favorite bands: Black Eyed Sceva: “Cleverness, I suspect, does not reflect intelligence.”

  13. 13 SteveH said at 8:43 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    If Tom Brady and Bill Belichick were more likable I’d be out of a hobby.

  14. 14 FairOaks said at 8:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Looks like Tommy was posting a new article as I was posting this on the previous thread, so repeating:

    The Patriots ran the “Philly Special” against the Eagles in 2015. Pederson was not here, but Taylor sure was. Guess Chicago also used it in 2016, but… I think the Patriots took it right from Clemson, since that is what Brady called the play. The Eagles won that 2015 game.

    http://dailysnark.com/wow-patriots-ran-philly-special-eagles-2015/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXuZSj9BtJg

  15. 15 Stephen E. said at 4:26 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I love how Byron Maxwell pulls up even though he could have legally hammered Brady just before he could go out of bounds. No self-respecting defender should pass up an opportunity to hit the QB. Guess he was afraid the officials would manufacture a penalty.

  16. 16 mojo said at 11:04 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Can you blame him?

  17. 17 P_P_K said at 9:05 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    No one can argue that the Eagles are way cooler than the Pats. Same for the fans.

  18. 18 ChoTime said at 10:54 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I think some people can argue that Patriots fans are cooler than Eagles fans, but I won’t dissent with the first point.

  19. 19 Ray888 said at 9:28 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Duce’s path forward is along the leadership route rather than the x’s & o’s route. RB coach to OC just isn’t common. Duce is a leader, is well respected w/i the team, and is someone an organization would want to retain. Appointment as assistant HC is the career ladder for Duce. It’s the perfect OJT for a future head coach. It’s been done on other teams and will advance his prospects for HC consideration in the future.

  20. 20 RobNE said at 9:28 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I am so here for the whiny Pats takes and them trying to defend we are too fun, we listened to the radio sometimes! I mean, this makes it even more worthwhile.

    I hope this story just goes on and on and on and on….

  21. 21 D3FB said at 8:38 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    This one time at training camp Bill let us all say one knock knock joke if we ran 50 gassers!

  22. 22 Forthebirds said at 9:33 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Aside from watching the Eagles celebrate, the next best thing was watching Brady walk off the filed with his balls deflated.

  23. 23 P_P_K said at 10:19 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Testiclegate.

  24. 24 RC5000 said at 9:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I don’t know if they’ll make Duce assistant head coach because they could go outside but Taylor at QB coach is fine. I don’t really think comparing Duce to Taylor is appropriate. Obviosly it’s an emotional reaction that Groh could be OC and not Duce but Press Taylor isn’t causing that. It would be due to Doug liking Groh at OC.

  25. 25 SteveH said at 10:17 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I’m still flu ridden and in a bad mood so I’ll finish Tommy’s title: Dear Tedy, Fuck You

  26. 26 Philadelphian said at 10:24 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    As far as Duce goes, I guess the question should be what move would be beneficial to him and the Eagles without losing him?

    As far Lane Johnson is concerned I doubt if he came up with this issue off the top of his head. With both Blount and Long, who Johnson appears to be close with, coming from the Patriots organization, it wouldn’t surprise me if he heard many behind the scene stories from them.

  27. 27 Julescat said at 10:41 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I have an off topic question.

    when you see Doug Pederson on the sidelines or walking off there is a huge guy that seems to be standing next to him. is that a bodyguard or assistant coach? see pic below

    https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/phillytrib.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/5/80/58061174-ef95-51d8-992a-09ed9985dc26/5a62473fd818b.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800

  28. 28 Eagles4Life said at 10:51 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    He is his Andy Reid ghost figure constantly reminding him not to F things up during the game! 🙂

  29. 29 Buge Halls said at 11:01 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Security – he’s been there for a long time

  30. 30 Dave said at 11:05 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I believe that is Dom DiSandro, Vice President of Team Security.

    https://twitter.com/LesBowen/status/793849734800826368

  31. 31 Julescat said at 1:06 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I bet he could write a great book on his experiences some day

  32. 32 Dave said at 1:33 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Absolutely.

    If I remember correctly, he was always with Andy during his tenure with the team too. I’m pretty sure that when a high profile free agent or high draft pick arrived at the Philly airport, Dom could be seen escorting them to Nova Care.

    This is what I think of every time I see Dom…

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kf37UQXcNY

  33. 33 Tdoteaglefan said at 1:27 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Thanks, I’ve been wondering that for a while too. I’ve noticed him in almost every eagles clip online…on the field when they were getting hyped to meek mills before the NFC championship, behind pederson on the sidelines, behind the podium at the parade. which makes sense since he’s head of security

  34. 34 Dave said at 1:34 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I remember seeing him at training camp in Lehigh University right next to Andy.

  35. 35 sonofdman said at 10:46 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    A Patriots player named Marquis Flowers responded to Lane Johnson by saying “Five Super Bowls is more fun than one.”

    http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/02/12/marquis-flowers-five-super-bowls-is-more-fun-than-one/

    The funny thing is that Marquis Flowers was only on the Patriots in 2017, so he has won precisely zero Super Bowls!

  36. 36 Ryan Rambo said at 10:50 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Good call! Lol Donkey of the Day goes to……

  37. 37 Stephen E. said at 4:33 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    So he’s basically like a millennial Cowboys fan?

  38. 38 sonofdman said at 12:35 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    LOL

  39. 39 Ryan Rambo said at 10:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    BB is an asshole…..cut the guy less than 24 hours before the SB and basically gave zero reason why. Dude had all his family and friends down to watch the game and BOOM. Glad the Giants won!

    http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1053812-tiquan-underwood-the-man-the-new-england-patriots-cut

  40. 40 Buge Halls said at 11:01 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Did the same thing with Butler this year, only he basically cut him at game time!

  41. 41 Dave said at 11:01 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    The Patriots offered Underwood a ticket to the game, but he declined. He watched from his hotel room in Indianapolis, rooting for the team that had just released him.

    Belichick promised Underwood a Super Bowl ring if the Patriots won, but they were upset, 21-17, by the Giants. Underwood had to settle for an AFC Championship ring. He was re-signed by the Patriots two days after the Super Bowl.

    “Coach Belichick kept his word and said he would do that and he delivered,” Underwood said.

    http://www.nj.com/rutgersfootball/index.ssf/2015/02/tiquan_underwood_and_alex_silvestro_recall_when_th.html

  42. 42 Ryan Rambo said at 11:20 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    By all accounts, Underwood is a classy guy that takes the high road every opportunity. i wouldn’t take the ticket either. He earned the right to be there as a PLAYER. not a spectator. Who wants a freebie ring? Yeah, Bill tried to make it “better” but its still a shit move IMO. #fuckBill

  43. 43 Dave said at 10:57 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Lots of players are going to get overpaid.

    Browns- $110M
    Colts – $77M
    49ers – $74M
    Jets – $73M
    Bucs – $60M
    Texans – $56M
    Titans – $49.4M
    Vikings – $49M
    Redskins – $48M
    Lions – $44M
    Bears – $41M
    Rams – $40M
    Bengals – $35M
    Saints – $31M
    Bills – $29M
    Broncos – $26M
    Giants – $24M
    Chargers – $23M
    Cardinals – $22M
    Panthers – $20M
    Raiders – $19.9M
    Cowboys – $19.1M
    Packers – $16.93M
    Jaguars – $16.90M
    Seahawks – $14M
    Patriots – $13M
    Falcons – $12M
    Ravens – $10M
    Dolphins – $8M
    Steelers – $7M
    Chiefs – $12K
    Eagles – ($9M)

    https://twitter.com/NFL_Stats/status/963420645978705920

  44. 44 A_T_G said at 11:24 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    The Chiefs have 12K. LOL.

  45. 45 Ryan Rambo said at 11:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Lol they can sign a used Honda.

  46. 46 Dragon_Eagle said at 1:05 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    If the used Honda can manage a game clock, it would be a good signing.

  47. 47 A_T_G said at 1:33 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I think Hondas can have timing belt issues. A dangerous combination when paired with Reid.

  48. 48 Ryan Rambo said at 2:03 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Ba Da Bing!

  49. 49 BlindChow said at 12:57 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Does that include Alex Smith?

  50. 50 A_T_G said at 2:01 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Probably, because the trade hasn’t officially happened yet. That’ll get them a little room.

  51. 51 Buge Halls said at 11:00 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    As I said in another story, I can see Duce being promoted to something like Assistant OC or Offensive QC but not right to OC. He doesn’t have the experience – he needs to work his way into designing the game plan – he can’t just step into it. Now I’m just waiting for some jackass to play the race card!

  52. 52 RC5000 said at 11:10 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Giants hired Mike Shula as OC.

  53. 53 Donald Kalinowski said at 11:12 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    How should I feel about this?

  54. 54 A_T_G said at 11:15 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Apathetic.

  55. 55 or____ said at 8:46 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    See above

  56. 56 or____ said at 8:46 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Is he a better o line?

  57. 57 Mac said at 11:12 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Lane Johnson just worked his butt off to become one of the best OTs in the game, and his team flat out sucker punched “the dynasty” right in the mouth in 2018’s greatest sporting event… He went on to say that he had fun in the process… then he goes one step further and says what everyone has been thinking throughout the whole Brady/Belichick dynasty days… that they’re not having fun.

    Fun: enjoyment, amusement, or lighthearted pleasure
    -or-
    F is for friends who do stuff together, U is for you and me, N is for anywhere and anytime at all down here in the deep blue sea.

    A sadist does not understand the word fun. The rest of the world looks at what a sadist calls fun and the response is… ewwwwwww or yikes!

    Based on the reaction the Pats team has when the lose, I don’t think we’re dealing with a team/leadership that is into masochism.

    And they clearly don’t have the lighthearted bravado that comes from the sheer joy of playing the game for the sake of the game, or the enjoyment that comes from knowing you and your comrades gave it your best and the other team just happened to be better on that day.

    As I recall, Tedy was renowned for being one of the leaders of the Pats locker room who would routinely “call guys out” and “do the dirty work” of motivating the defense so that Belichick could hover above that low brow stuff.

    Conclusion: either Tedy is a sadist, or he is just so gosh darn stupid that he doesn’t even understand what “fun” is.

  58. 58 Bert's Bells said at 11:20 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Damn, great burn by Lane.

  59. 59 A_T_G said at 11:22 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    The whole thing is a giant straw man argument. Lane never said it would be easy, or even that he expects to win again next year. He said he would rather not win again than give up having fun to do so.

  60. 60 Ryan Rambo said at 11:26 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    True. Players notice how they are treated on other teams and realize it could happen to them. See Malcolm Butler.

  61. 61 A_T_G said at 11:45 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Absolutely, but my complaint is that Tedy makes the argument that Lane is wrong if he thinks winning again will be easy.

    Having fun doing something does not mean it is easy. One would expect that a person who made a living playing a game would know that better than anyone.

  62. 62 Ryan Rambo said at 11:50 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Nope. Not at all. Hard work is hard work. Period. I agree that the Patriots are absolutely fear based. I think it even takes a while for ex Patriot players to feel truly comfortable expressing their own opinions in the media.

  63. 63 Mac said at 11:59 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Tedy would probably love the opportunity to show Lane what his version of fun is.

  64. 64 RC5000 said at 11:26 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/963448044019703809

  65. 65 Fufina said at 11:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    This i find hugely worrying. We have lost 2 really good coaches, with extensive X’s and O’s experience who both played a big role in making the game plan.

    I don’t have a problem bringing in Taylor as the QB coach, Eagles know what he is bringing to the room and he apparently is a creative thinker and contributed to the game plan. But we should be replacing Reich/Flip’s experience in the organization and during game days.

  66. 66 Mac said at 11:58 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    No need to worry. Doug listened to Tedy’s comments, and realized that the Eagles must adopt the Patriot Way; therefore, Reich/Flip will both reject their coaching offers and come back home to Philly.

    J/K our team isn’t a bunch of a**holes.

  67. 67 BlindChow said at 12:48 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Yeah, they had a system which apparently worked well enough to get them a Lombardi, but now they’re going to just eliminate a key coaching position?

    Feels like maybe they wanted to elevate one of the two, but didn’t want to hurt the other guy’s feelings…

  68. 68 RobNE said at 2:48 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    no immediate plans may mean we are going to take our time. RELAX.

  69. 69 Masked Man said at 5:05 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Can the guys get a week off first?

  70. 70 D3FB said at 8:32 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I read this as they are going to involve Duce and Groh more, probably bring in an old head to be AHC, as well as a couple new lower level guys and see how things work out.

  71. 71 Spooonius said at 8:09 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Doug can do no wrong. I’m ok with however he decides to handle this.

  72. 72 Gary Barnes said at 11:30 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I cannot stand Kraft, Brady or Belichek or any of the Pats like Tedy who is one of the most smug and insufferable blowhards around.

    That said, Lane’s comments were also idiotic and served no purpose besides running one’s mouth. You just beat the Pats in the SB and proved you are the best. Let that speak for you loud and clear – why denigrate it with a moronic claim?

    I do not want the Eagles to become the Cowboys, blowhard braggarts who make us look bad and do not represent our city well. We just knocked the massive chip off our shoulders by winning the trophy – why are we looking to add another one? Does Lane need this to stay motivated? Is this part of staying a “hungry dog”? Be classy and smart, STFU and enjoy your off season.

  73. 73 bushisamoron said at 11:52 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    Tommy- I take exception to your statement regarding your respect for Belichek. The WORST offense in sports is to cheat. It is worse than choking, not trying your best, throwing teammates under the bus, etc. He is a cheater and the problem with that is that you do not have a true sense of his accomplishments had he not cheated. You also do not know that he is not cheating now or how else he cheated in the past. Also, think for a minute about the players, coaches and front offices that were the victims of his cheating. Financially, they suffered. Reputations suffered, jobs were lost, etc. And Brady had two guys who deflated footballs to make them more to his liking. No respect for either guy. None

  74. 74 Fufina said at 12:01 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    If your not cheating, your not trying…. Belicheck is widely considered the greatest coach in NFL history, doesn’t seem like cheating has cost him much. Getting caught is costly but the rewards generally are greater than the risks.

  75. 75 bill said at 12:56 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    “If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.” I love saying that to teachers and principals. I’m gonna raise my kids the New England way, and woe to the teachers that try to give them a zero!

  76. 76 Dave said at 12:58 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    https://i.imgflip.com/24hsc0.jpg

  77. 77 ChoTime said at 7:28 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I think just about every player is trying to cheat in a certain sense–grabbing jersey, picking, pushing off, etc.

  78. 78 Anders said at 2:50 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    In generel sports fans are kidding them self if they take the high horse regarding cheating. EVERY PLAYER AND TEAM IN SPORT CHEATS!

    Im sorry to say, but your favorit player most likely took or are taking some kind of PED (yes that includes the likes of Brian Dawkins)

  79. 79 Corry said at 11:58 AM on February 13th, 2018:

    I wonder what Chris Long and LeGarrette Blount have told Lane about their experiences in New England.

    “The beatings will continue until the morale improves.”

  80. 80 Masked Man said at 5:03 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    “Wipe that smile off your face, soldier!”

  81. 81 D3FB said at 8:16 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Lunch has been canceled due to a lack of hustle

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LH62Jd5qCj0

  82. 82 Bob Scatchard said at 12:20 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    A winning while having fun culture has been around for years…and is sustainable…just look at the Penn State Wrestling Program, Six national titles in the last 7 years…and 5 returning national champion wrestlers.

  83. 83 P_P_K said at 2:17 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Cael has done a remarkable job at PSU.

  84. 84 Ryan Rambo said at 12:25 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    There’s something to be said for playing “loose” and having fun while working your ass off. No way in hell the Eagles would have been able to get the results they did without putting their heart and souls into this season. Overcoming all what they did and still winning says A LOT!

  85. 85 Tumtum said at 1:09 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Curious if anyone could find the numbers on RB coaches promotions and what they were to. I can’t ever remember one getting promoted personally. I do love Duce, and think if Doug believes he is ready for the OC role, then I am all for it. However, if not, maybe it is time to expand his role, so he can grow into something in the future. Assistant head coach? Maybe.

    Not sure why you would even give that clown NR_Garrett the light. People like him are a perfect example of why I don’t do social media (other than Steemit of course). Say it like you mean it Garrett. No need for that thin veil.

  86. 86 Dave said at 1:37 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Andy recently hired Eric “Sleeping with” Bieniemy to be his OC. It should be noted that Bieniemy was an OC for 2 years in college.

    http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000904902/article/chiefs-promote-eric-bieniemy-to-offensive-coordinator

  87. 87 Bob Scatchard said at 2:10 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    If I’m listening to calls for Nick, I want at minimum a #2 this year and either a #1 in ’19 or ’20 OR a #2 and a starter player (see Alex smith trade). After all, your getting a proven NFL caliber QB (see Jimmy G. and Cousins) at a 70% price discount for at least a year. if the trade is with one of the top 5 drafting teams this year, then I want the #1 this year ( not 19 or 20) and I draft Sequan Barkley, if available.

  88. 88 Dave said at 2:28 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I don’t think the Eagles trade Nick without his approval of the team he goes to and I don’t think Nick agrees to any trade without a new contract. I believe Alex Smith was traded in the same manner.

  89. 89 Bob Scatchard said at 2:53 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I’m assuming that nick has agreed to a trade, and even if the contract is renegotiated, he’looks still probably end somewhere in the teens, which, I feel doesn’t change my wants… After all, Howie got a 1 and 4 for Sammy Sleeves..

  90. 90 FairOaks said at 3:23 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Bradford was considered much better than Foles. That’s why we also had to give up a second when trading for Bradford.

    A team which has a bad OL has no use for Foles, really. That “variance” that Tommy has mentioned (Foles when good is very good, but can also be very bad) makes coaches/GMs nervous, and that will significantly reduce his value. If there is a team that believes in Foles as a long-term starter, then great, we could get a lot. But if a team just wants him as a stop-gap while they groom a younger draft pick, then they would laugh at any request for a 1st round pick (or high 2nd really). They would rather find a free agent. Given that 2-3 free agent QBs may become available out of Minnesota, plus Cousins, teams may wait to see if they could get one of those rather than trade for Foles.

  91. 91 Mac said at 3:26 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    It really has almost nothing to do with football, or a QB’s perceived ability to play football. QB’s put butts in seats and sell merchandise. Franchise owners want to make money.

    What move makes more money for a franchise than bringing in the QB who just won the Superbowl?

    I mean, everybody knows Sleevie is a middling QB who’s injury prone… yet some team is going to trot him out there as a #1 overall draft pick who’s going to stay healthy this year and lead their team to the playoffs.

  92. 92 RC5000 said at 3:59 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I don’t think Howie cares if teams laugh at him. He was superb selling Bradford.

  93. 93 RC5000 said at 3:39 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    The Eagles don’t have to do that. They signed him to that contract for a reason and if they get a great offer for him, I don’t think Howie will let that happen – getting a much lower value in return.

  94. 94 Dave said at 4:05 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Alex Smith’s agent negotiated a new contract with the Redskins before the deal was announced by the Chiefs.

  95. 95 RC5000 said at 4:19 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Yeah I totally worded that wrong. Nick is under contract for 4 more years at a great team friendly amount if he’s traded isn’t he?

  96. 96 Dave said at 4:25 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    According to overthecap.com,

    “Nick Foles signed a two year, $11 million contract with the Eagles on March 16, 2017. Foles received $7 million in guarantees, including a $3 million signing bonus. For salary cap purposes the Eagles added three voidable contract years to prorate the money. The 2019, 2020, and 2021 years will automatically void if an extension is not reached. Another $6 million in incentives are available.”

    He made almost $21M over his career, if he is traded, he will surely make just as much next year alone.

  97. 97 RC5000 said at 4:33 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I thought it didn’t get voided if he was traded which is why everyone says he’s such a valuable commodity.

    Foles’ deal had some stipulations, one of which voids the last three years if he’s an Eagle…

    https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nick-foles-contract-would-make-him-a-free-agent-if-hes-on-the-eagles-in-february-2019/

  98. 98 Dave said at 4:50 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That seems to be correct. Spotrac indicates he gets $5.5M per year for 2019/20/21, if traded.

    http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/nick-foles-9898/

  99. 99 D3FB said at 8:14 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    If a team gives up good compensation, Nick’s agent will immediately scream fuck you pay me in perpetuity. His current deal only matters insofar as much as the current cap charge if he’s on the Eagles in 2018.

  100. 100 CrackSammich said at 2:58 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    If you wanted to say you weren’t going to trade him, you could have just left it at that. The prices you list are absurdly unrealistic expectations.

  101. 101 Mac said at 3:02 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Sleevie Wonder disagrees.

  102. 102 CrackSammich said at 3:30 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Sleevie Wonder was traded under some pretty specific circumstances that don’t currently apply.

  103. 103 Mac said at 4:21 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I guess we’ll have to wait and see. Personally, I’d rather keep Foles on the roster, but I am becoming increasingly convinced it won’t happen.

  104. 104 Ryan Rambo said at 3:31 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    AJ McCarron was fetching a 2nd & 3rd this season until the Browns botched the deal.

  105. 105 CrackSammich said at 3:32 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    This isn’t last season. There’s no scarcity right now.

  106. 106 Ryan Rambo said at 3:35 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Lol would you trade Foles for less than McCarron got traded for? This season or next.

  107. 107 CrackSammich said at 3:38 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    There’s rumored to be 5 1st round QBs in the draft. Probably at least 3. There’s a few older QB’s that might be available for trade. Tyrod is available for trade. Cousins, Teddy, Sleeves, and Keenum all free agents. And the legion of career backups like Osweiler, Cutler, Hoyer available as well.

    For a team looking for the future, there’s options.
    For a team looking for a stop gap, there’s options.

    And in that market, a 2nd and 3rd would still be high offer.

  108. 108 Ryan Rambo said at 3:40 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I’d rather keep him than send him off for peanuts. At some point he’s way more valuable to the Eagles considering Carson’s unknown ETA to be healthy.

  109. 109 CrackSammich said at 3:41 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    …i agree?

  110. 110 xeynon said at 3:58 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    While all that is true, Foles is better/more accomplished than most of those guys.

  111. 111 Guy Media said at 5:03 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That rumor better be true; I need 5 QBs, at least, off of the board before we pick at 32. Hopefully a few TEs and CBs as well. ALL of the OTs need to drop to 32. ALL!!!!!

  112. 112 Guy Media said at 5:04 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Or LBs or Gs or DEs or whatever we need and none of what we don’t.

  113. 113 D3FB said at 8:12 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That’s not true. Orlando Brown can feel free to get drafted by a division rival.

  114. 114 Guy Media said at 5:22 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    That’s good to know. You worried he has DJ Fluker tendencies?

  115. 115 D3FB said at 9:26 PM on February 15th, 2018:

    Le’Revon Clark meets Erreck Flowers

  116. 116 RC5000 said at 5:23 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    There are a lot of questions with the 1st round QBs.

    Bridgewater and Bradford aren’t starters. Keenum will probably stay. Osweiler is awful. So is Hoyer. Cutler is washed up. He has no chance to be a good starter.

    I wouldn’t trade Foles for less than a second.

    Foles has a good contract so most agree that is valuable.

  117. 117 Insomniac said at 7:03 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I’d say Sammy Sleeves is a starter, he’s just the middle of the pack guy that needs the right setting. Bridgewater on the other hand, just isn’t good and will probably never be good.

  118. 118 Guy Media said at 5:02 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    You rang?

  119. 119 xeynon said at 3:57 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Why is everybody so obsessed with Barkley?

    RB is not a huge need for this team, and drafting RBs in the top 5 isn’t an optimal use of resources even if were one.

  120. 120 Guy Media said at 5:02 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    You’re correct that using a high pick on RB isn’t necessary, but it is necessary to state the Ezekiel Elliot is a piece of overrated Ohio State / Dallas shit.

  121. 121 P_P_K said at 6:19 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    GM, please don’t tell anyone about my posts when I argued for the Eagles drafting Elliott. Sometime it’s so good to be wrong.

  122. 122 ChoTime said at 7:25 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    heh, I don’t get why people care about RBs so much! But I have to admit, I wouldn’t mind Gurley on the team 🙂

  123. 123 or____ said at 8:37 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Penn State bias (whatever you’re thinking, in terms of degree, you’re probably under appreciating the magnitude of that bias).

  124. 124 Guy Media said at 5:03 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I don’t know if that’s possible. I’d call it even with a 2nd rounder this year and something else.

  125. 125 D3FB said at 8:09 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Say it with me now everyone: FOLES CONTRACT WILL GET TORN UP THE SECOND HE IS TRADED. THE PRICE DISCOUNT IS NOT REAL.

    Also they aren’t getting near that level of compensation.

  126. 126 Ryan Rambo said at 4:05 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    https://youtu.be/s5aytG6aa8Q

  127. 127 Dave said at 4:21 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    If I’m being honest, I had to turn that off after just a few minutes. The non-stop sound effects, music changes, slow motion clips, flashbacks, and commentary were way too much for me. It was giving me a headache.

  128. 128 Ryan Rambo said at 4:47 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    K?

  129. 129 anon said at 4:06 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    So if/ stoutland coordinates run game – what does duce do – teach guys to high step?

  130. 130 Masked Man said at 4:56 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I think he throws the board eraser at Ajayi when he’s not paying proper attention in meetings.

  131. 131 D3FB said at 8:07 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    RB coach is a position that’s often staffed with a young coach. Why? Because you’ve got a smaller number of dudes to teach, alot of it is natural instinct type stuff, and it’s not all that hard. There’s pass pro technique and little shit like that, but I mean telling a guy that on inside zone he’s to go frontside A-gap, if it’s not there then go backside-B gap and if it’s not there bounce it isn’t that hard, Whether the player has the vision to do that has little to do with the coach at that point.

    It’s not like an OL coach where a guy a guy only gaining 3 inches of ground on his kickslide vs 6 inches can be the difference between a good block and the QB on IR. While simulatenously getting 5 guys to work together and recognize in sync what a chaotic defensive front is doing.

  132. 132 DJH said at 4:20 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Schedule next year is brutal. Damn.

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/674bee792881fa8edff35eae730a94a303b30b52d8777e2ad9ebb5396a23d251.jpg

  133. 133 Dave said at 4:28 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    According to CBS, it’s middle of the road at 19th.

    https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2018-nfl-strength-of-schedule-texans-have-it-easiest-packers-face-roughest-ride/

  134. 134 A_T_G said at 4:41 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Thanks, NFCE!

  135. 135 RC5000 said at 4:29 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    It’s not that bad and we’re freaking good.

    NFC South is good . AFC South isn’t that good. We clobbered the Vikings. We’re better than the Rams and that’s like another home game. Vikings and Jags could take a step back too. Maybe not but teams often do.

  136. 136 Sean E said at 4:29 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Don’t assume teams that were good last year will be good. Don’t assume teams that were bad last year will be bad next year (unless it’s Cleveland).

  137. 137 RC5000 said at 4:44 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Except for the Eagles.

  138. 138 Tom33 said at 4:32 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    1st place schedule plus the NFC South (which has been the best division in football the past few years).

    That said, things are never what people expect. Look at Jax & LA Rams this year. Look at NYG this year lol.

  139. 139 A_T_G said at 4:42 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    It isn’t that bad; we still get to play Washington, New York, and Dallas.

  140. 140 Masked Man said at 4:52 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Weak division. Belichick’s secret formula.

  141. 141 Mac said at 5:44 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Mr. Krabs is gonna be so pissed when he discovers that Lurie has stolen his secret recipe for the Krabby Patty.

    Elite HC (check)
    Elite QB (check)
    Weak ass division (check)

    Dynasty here we come!

  142. 142 Guy Media said at 5:00 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Undefeated at home until we clinch the conference, especially vs. bum ass Carolina and Houston. Road is tough at New Orleans, but that’s about it.

  143. 143 unhinged said at 5:14 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    In London vs Jax will be a challenge. They do it every season, so advantage them.

  144. 144 Guy Media said at 5:21 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    No way; they’re an expansion team kicked out of their own building with a massively pro Eagles crowd – advantage us!

  145. 145 Dave said at 5:33 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    But we have British import Jay Ajayi. He’ll be primed for a big day in front of his home crowd.

  146. 146 Mac said at 5:38 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That’s what I thought when I (begrudgingly) had him on my fantasy team last season. Fail.

  147. 147 Masked Man said at 8:54 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I agree. Eagles travel well though too. Close game.

  148. 148 Dragon_Eagle said at 9:07 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I so want to go to this game.

  149. 149 sonofdman said at 1:02 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Just to see them lose 38-7 in London?

  150. 150 unhinged said at 5:13 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    A Jax friend told me that Premier League schedules biggest London matches that same Sunday to undermine NFL attendance. If you’re not a UK resident, book early and you can probably get a very good deal on flight, accommodation and ticket.

  151. 151 Ankerstjernen said at 5:04 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    This is not a bad schedule at all. Honestly we have 6 games against division opponenst who might not be very good at all. I can see the Giants and Redskins sucking this year, and I still think that Dak is overrated, Tyron Smiths back is done for and that WR cupboard in Dallas is completely bare. That alone makes it not such a hard schedule. Panthers, Falcons, Texans and Colts at home seem like games we kshould expect to be clear favorites in along with Bucks, Titans and Jaguars on the road. Vikings have a QB-problem, and they have to come to us where we just embarassed them on both sides of the ball. The only games here that we should expect to lose are Saints and Rams on the road, and we’ll see about the saints – I still think there is a chance that they bungle Bree’s contract negotiations. Last time he held out and they are yet to find common ground. Something crazy could happen with them.

  152. 152 RC5000 said at 5:13 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Plus the Rams don’t scare me. That’s practically another home game. The Saints D is up and down so they’re not even scary either.

  153. 153 Guy Media said at 5:21 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    agreed x 100000000000000

  154. 154 Ankerstjernen said at 5:03 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    The Saints could improve from last year to this one. They had an amazing offseason last year and that FO could add a few more pieces and make them scary. Imagine if they added an elite pass rusher and a competent pass catching TE. In the end it is going to come down to Brees. Is he losing a little bit on the fast ball? We’ll see. He may hit the cliff this year a la Manning. They don’t all age like Brady.

  155. 155 P_P_K said at 5:13 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That’s what I said last year at this time.

  156. 156 Guy Media said at 5:22 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I’m smelling 13-2 until we decide if we have to play hard in the finale or not.

  157. 157 RobNE said at 5:57 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Why are you so down on this team??

  158. 158 Bert's Bells said at 5:51 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    LA and London are going to be packed with Eagles fans.

  159. 159 RobNE said at 5:57 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    For our opponents.

  160. 160 laeagle said at 6:29 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Division games will be interesting. I don’t see WAS being as good as last year after a QB change. I don’t see NY being as bad after a coaching change, though I think they’ll still be eminently beatable. Dallas might split, but that team could be headed for an implosion.

    NFC South should be interesting. Saints will be tough in their house, but who knows how that defense plays next year, or if Brees will still be playing. Atlanta is the toughest if they can regain some 2016 form. Carolina can go f themselves forever.

    AFC South will be tougher next year. But no team there truly scares me. Bortles? Please. Texans _might_ have some juice if the QB is healthy. Tennessee led by Mike Vrabel? That has the makings of a disaster; like a “gus bradley Jaguars” level disaster. Colts will be interesting because of Reich, but first year for an injury prone Luck in that system might be tough, if he even plays at all.

    Rams is another home game, and should be fun. I’ll be interested to see if they can continue last season’s success. I’m not sure they will. Bucs are, as always, a wild card. I hate that team and that city and every sports organization in it, but they always seem to (annoyingly) play us tough. They could either take a big jump up this year or be on the road to Implosion Bay. Minnesota will be tough, but if it’s in Philly, I don’t see them doing a lot of damage with a new coordinator in their first game (it’s very likely to be the opener). Especially because no one knows who their QB will be.

    Going by the chart above, I see it as
    W W W L
    W L W W
    W L W W
    L W W W

    That’s 12-4 and enough to win the division again.

  161. 161 ChoTime said at 7:24 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That looks awful.

  162. 162 Dragon_Eagle said at 8:10 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I can see only 2 or 3 wins on that schedule unless they stop having so much fun and get serious about winning.

  163. 163 sonofdman said at 1:00 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    They better stop having fun and start having serious conversations.

  164. 164 Masked Man said at 8:49 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Some great games on that schedule.

    Falcons and Panthers reruns. Minny who hates us now. Colts who have A. Luck and are like our cousins now. Texans and QB Deshaun Watson.

    Then away at Rams again, Saints, and at London vs. Jags.

  165. 165 GENETiC-FREAK said at 4:34 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    So Eagles not going with an OC this year reports saying. Is this a first in NFL?

  166. 166 Tom33 said at 4:35 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    No. From what I read Hou, LA Rams, SF among teams already having this structure in place.

  167. 167 GENETiC-FREAK said at 4:36 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Cool thanks. Thats a few teams with no OC.

  168. 168 Masked Man said at 4:50 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Maybe they just need a week or 10 days off. It’s been a lot. Superbowl and whatnot. Now going straight into some high profile staff appointments?

    Everybody in the league is set. It can wait a week or two.

  169. 169 Bert's Bells said at 5:28 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Dallas doesn’t have a Head Coach.

  170. 170 daveH said at 6:35 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Jurrah pays him 6M per and i hope he keeps doing so for years

  171. 171 or____ said at 8:23 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Well done sir.

  172. 172 DJH said at 5:31 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    The other thing to consider is that Schwartz has full control of the defense. Doug doesn’t have to focus on that at all. And Howie has full control of personnel, so Pederson “doesn’t have to” focus on that either.

  173. 173 kajomo said at 5:46 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I always think adding good people to the staff has its advantages, especially with the collaborative approach the eagles employ. In this case however I think Doug is doing right by the guys on his staff. I like the idea of splitting the OC responsibilities between Duece and Groh. It helps develop our 2 up-and-coming offensive position coaches simultaoneously. This is a pretty veteran coaching staff coming off the super bowl victory. I think they can make it work just fine.

  174. 174 Masked Man said at 8:36 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    It’s a nice compromise. Duce is a long time Eagle. He’s been with the coaching staff since 2011. Been an Eagle more than 20 years, playing and coaching.

    Mike Groh is coming along nicely, but he’s a newcomer to the team. Hasn’t paid dues here, so to speak. But he’s also got that passing game stuff.

    So give them more-or-less co-equal titles, and divide the job responsibilities whatever way you want.

    Go Champs! Go Eagles!

  175. 175 Fufina said at 8:39 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I disagree – you have lost 2 good offensive game planners, with diverse and different experience to bring to the game planning room. I think they should be bringing in someone with fresh outside ideas, because that has what has made Doug’s offense so great – he is willing to add and run any play if it is effective.

    I absolutely think this is being done to manage ego’s, and i don’t think that is good enough. Duce should go take a college HC or OC job – it is his natural career progression, and Groh can wait for his OC opportunity 1-2 more years, perhaps getting more involved with the x’s and o’s in the meantime.

  176. 176 Masked Man said at 8:43 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I would support Darrell Bevell from the names I heard for Eagles OC. Not opposed to the right outsider.

    Seems like the Eagles want to keep the warm familiar vibe at this time though….

  177. 177 D3FB said at 8:44 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    They didn’t say they aren’t bringing in anyone from outside the org. They said as of right now they aren’t going to name an OC.

  178. 178 or____ said at 8:48 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Does the legendary Superbowl winner get zero percent of the benefit of the doubt?

  179. 179 ACViking said at 6:16 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Bill Walsh never had an O.C.

    Going back before Walsh, into the ’70s (and before), it wasn’t uncommon for teams to have *neither* an O.C. or a D.C. by title … certainly by function, however.

  180. 180 or____ said at 8:22 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    God bless you for doing what you do so well.

  181. 181 unhinged said at 4:56 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I didn’t see the point in LJ’s unprovoked attack on NE. His team just won its 1st SB (barely) and he makes like a Texas moron. The guy is a beast on the field, best RT in the whole league…isn’t the Lombardi enough of a statement?

  182. 182 mtn_green said at 5:28 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    He won the SB he is asked to do every single interview press moment there is. He’s just talking. Not worried about consequences nor should he, because there aren’t any.

  183. 183 unhinged said at 5:34 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I wasn’t thinking consequences. He’s no different than any other Eagle but he distinguishes himself with derogatory perspective.

  184. 184 or____ said at 8:22 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Kelce next year “Lane Johnson can’t keep his mouth shut!”

  185. 185 Duracell said at 6:12 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    In his full comments, he even says their isn’t a right approach and NE’s clearly works. He just likes the Eagles’ approach better.

  186. 186 unhinged said at 5:14 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    I did not see that…thanks.

  187. 187 ChoTime said at 7:23 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Fans are going to hate it, but Cowherd went after LJ. Basically he called LJ “party guy” and pointed out that when the team needed him, he was out because of drug violations. That… is kind of a low blow, and I’m not sure if LJ even parties, but it’s true that when you live in a glass house…

  188. 188 Masked Man said at 8:31 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Cowherd is known for dissing the Eagles.

  189. 189 laeagle said at 8:58 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    That is nuts on a whole other plane of insanity. “Party guy”? What in the hell is that based on? Because of a drug violation that was pretty clearly supplement related? Even if Johnson’s violation was a result of intentional action, which it wasn’t, where do you draw the connection between that and “party guy”?

    Man, there really is stupid and then there’s Cowherd stupid.

    It’s not so crazy that players might think that it’s a good thing playing for an organization that is run in such a way as to respect players as adults, that encourages signing and drafting conscientious players who want to work on their craft, and that understands that there are ways towards success that don’t involve bullshit power trips and draconian policies. The 49ers were run that way, and they were a dynasty that lasted through multiple coaches and multiple quarterbacks but that throughout had organizational principles far closer to Philadelphia’s than New England’s.

  190. 190 Allen3000 said at 10:05 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Cowherd is a bottom of the barrel sports/entertainment talking head. I listened to him for 1 week about a decade ago and tuned him out since. That whole week I listened he was such a supremely arrogant Deutsche. He kept saying over and over again how the Giants had literally zero % chance of beating the Patriots. There were some level-headed, mildly intelligent fans who stated their case for how the Giants could *keep it close* and Cowherd would just hang up on them and tell them how stupid they were. The following week, he never once apologized or acknowledged how wrong he was. It was as if nothing had ever happened.

    I just can’t respect someone like that. I never listened to him again and don’t regret it one bit.

  191. 191 sonofdman said at 12:55 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    “there really is stupid and then there’s Cowherd stupid.”

    Perfectly put.

  192. 192 unhinged said at 7:11 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    Yeah, that criticism of LJ is unwarranted in my opinion. But here’s my take. I love the fact that the Eagles have the best RT in the game, and I like LJ a lot for his work ethic, his candor and his team-first attitude. On the other hand, I do not care at all for the Patriot way. The owner is arrogant, and the image projected by him and his HC and TB can best be described I think as SMUG. LJ’s comments, specifically the portion of his comments that I read, provoked a reaction in my mind.

    Despite my animus, I can appreciate the degree to which Bill Belichick has maximized his considerable talents and insights to achieve unprecedented success in his role as a HC. Now Lane uses the word “fear” in a very specific context, I think. I think LJ means to ascribe a cold, emotionally-suppressed label when he uses the word “fear”. I am inferring this, because the game is inherently treacherous, and all players know they can be seriously injured in a millisecond, ergo I don’t think there is cowardice in evidence to any great degree in the NFL. But returning to the unrivaled success achieved by Belichick…I believe that NE is an appealing destination in the minds of more than a few players because they derive joy out of winning. Two great players who would have probably retired without having won a SB ring, Corey Dillon and Randy Moss come immediately to mind. Now Tom Brady is a great tool for Belichick in the eyes of every roster member because he is driven to play until he’s 64, and he drives himself to stay limber and youthful. But that degree of commitment, I think is essential to repeating year after year. And this cannot be mocked by any serious analyst of coaching “style”. Yes, the Eagles had a romantic narrative as free-spirited underdogs with something to prove, but next season it’s going to be harder to repeat that success, in my opinion. Some of the players will lose the chip on their shoulder and play to their best without burning to achieve HFA. Doug Pederson may have to be firmer with his players if he detects a slackening of effort, and the “fun” may become more of a coach-driven grind than self-driven competition. This would probably vary from player to player.

    Sorry this has become so wordy. My final point: Every player in the league knows very well that they perform or find another way to earn their keep. The rules of the NFL are heartless and cutting. The league is full of exceptional individual achievers on mediocre teams. These players quickly adapt to the fact that success is not reducible to individual effort. For all of them, the paycheck and the challenge of the game are primary motivators. It is human nature, I believe, to amass the determination to achieve the status of “champion”… and then to relax. NE is extremely disciplined. NE does not beat itself. NE has a HC that has spent years (literally) combing through game films to glean patterns and weaknesses, and he’s been remarkably adept at keeping his team in almost every game. My impression is not that his players fear him or fear getting traded or benched or cut…those realities exist league-wide. I am speculating, but I think Belichick has an easy time justifying his absolutism. If you are drafted to play for Bill, I imagine you are given very specific physical tasks to perform or learn to perform, and you are told who is ahead of you , and just how steep the climb is to be “safe”. NE is very efficient. If Bill decrees no excessive celebration…why care, if you win your division? My guess is that players have immense respect for his methodology because it has worked over and over, and most players want to win. Why would defying the master be a thought if you are privileged to play in the SB? And I think if LJ is being totally honest, He would NOT have much fun being at the top of his profession and NOT winning EVER! So in making his contrast between Eagles and NE, I think LJ probably turned off quite a few players with his wording. Fear vs fun are misapplied terms. NE plays with greater self-control and less detectable emotion, and the Eagles play with more straight-forward bravado. In historical terms these styles were displayed by the Cowboys under Tom Landry ( and several of his stars complained of feeling “robotic”) and the Bears under Mike Ditka (where a music video went into the vault). If you feel like you wasted valuable time to read my bs, my apologies.

  193. 193 Mr. Magee said at 9:09 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Unecessary and maybe ill-advised, but probably true, nonetheless 🙂

  194. 194 Ark87 said at 10:46 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I don’t know that Lane even knows how much his words just went into the liver of the true believers of the Patriot way (there really aren’t many, but they absolutely loved the discipline, the seriousness, and so on of playing for the Patriots). Belichick asks a lot of his players. Tons of silly little things that you’re told add up to winning a super bowl. You put up with nonsense because you have absolute faith: everything you’re doing is what it takes to be a champion.

    I mean, why bother to be a faceless collection of henchmen with no personality while BB and TB get all the glory, when you could be on a more talented team filled with life and personality that plays just as hard and is just as tough if not more. And if you have any sense of self worth and ask to be paid your market value you won’t automatically be shown the door.

    BB is still mega successful and probably the most reliable bet to win a superbowl, so people will buy in. But this is how cracks form in “the Patriot way”, then Brady retires, post season success starts to dry up, the wins become less automatic. Suddenly no one buys in and the dynasty is finally dead.

  195. 195 unhinged said at 5:09 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    Thanks for a thoughtful response.

  196. 196 Mac said at 5:39 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    When can we officially start the kicker controversy this off-season?

    How many first round picks can we get for a Superbowl winning kicker?

  197. 197 Guy Media said at 5:43 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Sturgis is a free agent, no?

  198. 198 Mac said at 5:45 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Awe man.

  199. 199 Fufina said at 8:35 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I thought he was restricted free agent but i have seen him listed as a full free agent on websites so i guess he must be.

  200. 200 Bert's Bells said at 6:11 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Hope Sturgis signs for big bucks somewhere and nets a 6th round comp which Howie will turn into a first round pick in 2025.

  201. 201 unhinged said at 5:48 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    A classy nod to a classy guy:

    http://kluv.radio.com/2018/02/12/matthew-mcconaughey-bought-a-full-page-ad-in-the-statesman-to-congratulate-nick-foles-on-super-bowl-win/

  202. 202 xmbk said at 5:57 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Just for the record, articles about people being jealous of us winning the SUPER BOWL are my favorite kind of off-season articles.

  203. 203 P_P_K said at 6:14 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    There’s just about 1700 players in the NFL. If you told them, “You can play on Pederson’s Eagles or Belichick’s Pats, either way you will win a Super Bowl,” I’d bet an overwhelming majority would choose the Eagles.

  204. 204 Masked Man said at 8:29 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Nobody would pick Mr. Meany Face, given that choice!

  205. 205 Mr. Magee said at 9:06 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    “Do your job” has gone from a winning mantra to the equivalent of being assigned to a chain gang, lol. Seriously though, it’s one thing to be professional and focused, and another to be robotic. Based on everything I’ve read and heard in the 2 weeks leading up to the SB, it seems like the Patriot org has crossed the line and become pretty joyless and lacking in perspective. And those old dogs Bill, Tom, and Kraft have been smelling themselves for a long time, so I doubt they are up to learning new tricks.

  206. 206 RobNE said at 9:34 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Rome has fallen. They have one year where they better win (odds are they won’t) then bye. Then rebuild.

  207. 207 daveH said at 6:42 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Will LeG B stay on the team for next season ?

    Pls sign Bradham but also pick up some athletic LBs in the draft to compete

  208. 208 Fufina said at 8:32 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    I don’t see it personally… but RB’s but Blount cost only $1.5mil last year so perhaps the Eagles can find that kind of money. The big question for me is will the Eagles make 1 extra cut/trade to a core player (Vinny C being the most obvious option) to bring back 3-4 role players like Corey Graham, Blount etc.

    Bradham i personally think will get too rich for the Eagles, although if they can agree a deal, then i think the Eagles will look to move Kendricks or cut him if they cannot find a taker to free up the cap to get the Bradham deal done. For a team that plays a majority of snaps in some form of Nickle i don’t think you can justify having Hicks and paying big $$ for Kendricks and Bradham.

  209. 209 daveH said at 10:20 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Preesh that analysis. . Seems we rely a ton on my man Nigel B .. 5M yes, 6M yes .. 8M tough to justify
    ..
    We ALL would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see Hicks pay a full season.
    If not, damn that will be tough football schit to deal with.
    ..
    1.5 for LeG B is easy to spend imho…even if you have several speedy guys to choose from instead; his beast mode is better.

  210. 210 RC5000 said at 2:41 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    That’s so misleading. Bradham was on the field for 97% of the snaps in 2016 and 89% of the snaps this year. He was on the field for 100% of the snaps in 11 games this year.

  211. 211 Dragon_Eagle said at 8:39 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Random question. Who’s cowardly decision was worse: Bobby Petrino abandoning the Falcons mid-season or Josh McDaniels backing out of the Colts deal?

  212. 212 Donald Kalinowski said at 8:51 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Definitely Petrino. McDaniel’s decision was stupid though. Why would you want anything to do with taking over the team after Brady and Bellichick retire?

  213. 213 RobNE said at 9:33 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    What did Petrine do?

  214. 214 ACViking said at 9:43 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Petrino abandoned ATL to return to the college ranks —

    He received a huge deal from the U-ARK …
    which, to this day, hasn’t been a player since 1969 under Frank Broyles.

  215. 215 Dragon_Eagle said at 9:51 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    And he bolted Atlanta **during** the NFL season, not after.

  216. 216 ACViking said at 10:10 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    For sure, as you wrote in your first comment (McD v. BP).
    ______________

    But Petrino wasn’t the first to jump ship in-season . . .

    No. Sorry Notre Dame fans.

    That ignominious honor goes to Lou Holtz.

    NYJ hired Holtz in ’76 out of NC State.

    With 1 game left, Holtz quit the Jets @ 3-10 —

    And became the HC of . . . U-ARK.
    _____________

    What’s the attraction of ARK — besides the money?

  217. 217 Dragon_Eagle said at 10:19 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Did not know that. Thank you.

  218. 218 ChoTime said at 10:01 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    The answer is Frank Gore.

  219. 219 or____ said at 8:51 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Carson Wentz for OC!

  220. 220 Mr. Magee said at 8:54 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Love LJ’s twitter retort – the guy is no dummy

  221. 221 Dragon_Eagle said at 9:08 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Wow, Tedy, look at all those asterisks on your ring. They’re like diamonds.

  222. 222 Ryan Rambo said at 9:16 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Lol!

  223. 223 or____ said at 2:17 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Bravo

  224. 224 ChoTime said at 10:01 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Igs getting some love on this poll at FO. You guys’ll like:

    http://www.footballoutsiders.com/ramblings/2018/2017-football-outsiders-awards

  225. 225 sonofdman said at 12:46 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Can’t believe that both McVay and Belichik still got more votes than Pederson for coach of the year.

  226. 226 BlindChow said at 11:01 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Not enough love imo. Pretty much the same as the actual awards.

  227. 227 daveH said at 10:10 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Shawn White just won Gold.. .sick huge moves by the top 3, pretty exciting

  228. 228 Ark87 said at 10:13 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    Tough call, I mean, they’re both players…lets get a 3rd opinion. Malcolm Butler, what do you think?

    I really appreciate Lane Johnson even if when I don’t agree with him, just one of those rare players who refuses to dish out that PR-manicured player speak. For the record, this isn’t even a controversial statement. I mean it’s practically in their mission statement that they aren’t there to have fun, they’re there to win. And even that’s generous. They will beg cheat and steal, but there will be absolutely no fun.

  229. 229 Ryan Rambo said at 11:07 PM on February 13th, 2018:

    No days off!!

  230. 230 mtn_green said at 12:09 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Do your job!

  231. 231 izzylangfan said at 6:12 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Lane Johnson is great but he went off in a jerky direction when he chose to intuit how much fun the Pats have. You don’t really know what the team is like if your not really inside it. Brady is a jerk and a cheater. Belichickn is cheater and a football nerd. I’ll bet he’s reall interesting at times when it comes to getting down to it. Though he might be a grinding taskmaster. Anyway why go astray. Lane is an Eagle he loves his team and had a lot of fun. Why denigrate the team you just beat. Football is a game of emotion. And the best emotion is not hate or anger, they wear you down. But love is self regenerating the more you love the more love and energy you have. Love your teammates and celebrate them. Love your opponents a grind their faces into the turf. When you win the Super Bowl celebrate with your guys. No need to mention the team you beat.

  232. 232 knighn said at 7:02 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Other players (Free Agents, rookies) pay attention. Lane just sent out a PSA: you can come here, win, and have fun… or you can go to NE, win, and be miserable. Of course that won’t do much for the Eagles this off-season (tight against the cap) but it’s good to put it out there for the future.

  233. 233 Fufina said at 7:02 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    I think its tough, players are being dragged around 100’s of interviews and appearances on shows/podcasts, and some of the interviewers are wanting to generate some click bate so to an extent set people up. Lane speaks his mind, perhaps too much, and was being bombarded with questions about the patriots, repeating and building a dynasty and he answered honestly with his opinion. Would he probably like to rephrase his words a little, because if you listen he was really talking about how much he loved the Eagles and how much fun they had playing together as a team, rather than calling out the Patriots.

    Frankly it doesn’t matter – its a dead period in the NFL waiting for the combine and the real off season to start and people are just making content.

  234. 234 RC5000 said at 10:33 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    Knowing Lane he probably doesn’t regret what he says. Belichick probably took it as a huge compliment.

  235. 235 RC5000 said at 10:25 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    F the Patriots and loving them. F the Cowboys, Giants and Redskins and loving them. Lane earned the right to say what he wants and I love we’re confident and back it up.

  236. 236 BlindChow said at 10:57 AM on February 14th, 2018:

    You don’t really know what the team is like if your not really inside it.

    He played with two guys who were on last year’s Patriots team. Maybe he knows more than you think.

  237. 237 ChoTime said at 12:38 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    He went off in a direction I don’t much like but hey, it’s the offseason. He gave the Pats bulletin board material and it’s not going to look good at all if he ever gets another drug violation. I guess everyone does Superbowl winner different.

  238. 238 CrackSammich said at 3:34 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    I don’t really see the scenario where him getting another drug violation *does* look good though, so…

  239. 239 Flyineagle45 said at 9:03 PM on February 14th, 2018:

    Sure they have a bunch of rings…. Wouldn’t happen if they played in the NFC east they are gifted 5-6 games a year because their division is awful!!! The one time a team in their division was good they got knocked out the playoffs (Sanchez’s jets)