Donovan McNabb/DeSean Jackson:

After viewing the Eagles morning practice today, I was pretty impressed with what I saw.  I began the day, obviously, by watching Donovan McNabb in action to see how our franchise player looked.  He began his practice by throwing some quick outs and flare patterns, followed by launching some deep balls to the rookie wide receivers including DeSean Jackson.   I mention Jackson specifically, since his presence on the field was very apparent to the point that it almost seemed as though McNabb was targeting the first year rookie, out of California, during the drills.  This is great to see since good QB/WR chemistry (especially with a rookie WR) is a huge factor in determining how well the offense will get things done this coming season.  Although McNabb's knee injury seemed not to bother him, I couldn't help but notice the signs of rust from his shoulder injury that he and the team have been calling a "non-issue" during the QB drills.  But it was not only me who felt this way.  Perez and Jordan from Downingtown, Pa said, "He (McNabb) seems to be in the best shape we've seen him in the last three years.  His arm strength was great, but his throws seemed to come out a bit wobbly".  Jeff of Emmaus, Pa added, "Donovan looked to be in great shape and threw some great deep balls to DeSean Jackson.  I must admit, however, that he wasn't throwing a very pretty ball".  Like Jeff, I was a bit discouraged by #5's throws but was amazed by the pure speed and agility of DeSean Jackson.  The only knock on the rookie today was the many drops I witnessed during his workout.  Let's hope these drops only last another few days until he learns the "ins and outs" of Marty Mornhinweg's offense.  Joe, a veteran Eagle fan from Philadelphia said of Jackson, "Although DeSean looked good and had some spectacular moves and catches, I'm afraid he's gonna turn out to be a 'hot dog' on the field".  When asked what he thought about the Eagle QB situation Joe replied, "McNabb may have looked rusty, but that's normal.  He is a proven veteran and leader and will be ready for opening day.  But what really stood out to me, was how good Kevin Kolb looked.  To me, he had just as much zip on the ball as Donovan, and at times seemed to outplay him (McNabb) and Feeley on this first day of training camp".

The Linebackers:

After watching the offense for a good 35 minutes, I got up and walked over to where the rookie linebackers were getting some work in.  I must say that I was completely blown away by how good our young LB corp looks.  The presumtive starters at the LB position include 2nd-year man Stewart Bradley, Omar Gaither and Chris Gocong, but any of the other six LBs could fill the void if one of the starters were to go down.  The only problem I can think of concerning the LBs is that there is no possible way that we will be able to pay and/or keep all of these young studs, and will inevitably lose some of these guys to other contenders in the NFL that need help at the LB position.  The Eagles must decide decisively and quickly which of these linebackers they need to keep around the huddle.

To conclude, practice ended a bit early, around 10:25am, just as the heat began to wear down not only the players, but the spectators as well.  Afternoon practice is scheduled for 3:30pm. 

-- Jay Vaidya