Eagles' haul gets even bigger: RB Brown, RT Harris, S Page

The Philadelphia Eagles' offseason onslaught continued Tuesday when the team added three more free agents: running back Ronnie Brown, safety Jarrad Page and right tackle Ryan Harris.

Brown, who spent his first six seasons with the Miami Dolphins, agreed to a one-year contract that will pay him $1 million in base salary plus incentives, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Brown, 29, rushed for 4,815 yards and 36 touchdowns and caught 184 passes for 1,491 yards in Miami. He ran for 1,000 yards in 2006 and made his only Pro Bowl team in 2008.

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"Ronnie is an all-around running back with a versatile skill set," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said in a statement released by the team. "He can run the ball, catch it, and does very well in pass protection. He'll add some good size to our backfield, and he's a good character guy. We think he'll be a tremendous compliment to LeSean (McCoy) and the other young backs on this team that we really like. You can never have enough good running backs in this league, and we are happy to have Ronnie join us."

Before adding Brown, the Eagles' only experienced running backs were starter McCoy, who ran for 1,080 yards and caught 70 passes last season, and Eldra Buckley, who has just 36 carries in two years with the team.

Brown was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft, behind San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith.

Later in the day, the Eagles signed free-agent offensive tackle Harris to a one-year deal.

Harris spent his first four seasons with the Denver Broncos, starting 34 games. He was their third-round pick in 2007 out of Notre Dame, where he played with Eagles defensive linemen Victor Abimiari and Trevor Laws.

Right tackle is a question mark for the Eagles, with Winston Justice, the starter the past two years, beginning training camp on the injured list with a knee injury. The team has been using second-year pro Austin Howard and former seventh-round draft pick King Dunlap at right tackle during the early days of camp.

Harris started 16 games in 2008, eight in 2009 and 10 last season.

"I appreciate everything the Broncos have done for me," Harris told the Denver Post. "I'm grateful they drafted me, and I built a lot of great relationships with a lot of great people over the past four years. It wasn't an easy decision. But in the end, money had nothing to do with my decision. This was about what I thought was the best opportunity at this point in my career."

Finally, the Eagles scooped up former New England Patriots safety Page late Tuesday. Page, 26, had 12 tackles and two interceptions in 10 games last year for New England. Before that he spent four years with the Chiefs, starting 39 games.

Like all other NFL free agents, Brown, Harris and Page aren't permitted to practice with their new team until Thursday.

In the week before Tuesday's flurry, Philadelphia had already acquired defensive linemen Jason Babin and Cullen Jenkins, cornerbacks Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha, offensive lineman Evan Mathis and quarterback Vince Young.

That plethora of new talent sparked Cowboys defensive coordinator Rob Ryan to call the Eagles the "all-hype team" on Monday, and the additions have made Philadelphia early Super Bowl favorites in the eyes of many.

In other Eagles news Tuesday, the Inquirer reported that wide receiver Jeremy Maclin reported to the team's training camp at Lehigh, Penn. He had been out with an unspecified illness. The team is still waiting for star wide receiver DeSean Jackson to report. Jackson is holding out for more money.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Eagles still dealing, give DL Jenkins five-year, $25M pact

Following Friday's breathtaking maneuvering to score free agency's biggest prize, cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, the Philadelphia Eagles on Saturday added defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins to a roster that's suddenly bursting with big names.

Jenkins agreed to a five-year, $25 million deal, a league source told NFL Network insider Michael Lombardi.

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"Thank you #packernation for everything," Jenkins tweeted while explaining why he wouldn't return to the Green Bay Packers. " ... Unfortunately the option wasn't given to continue."

Added Jenkins: "Now it's on to the next chapter and I'm more pumped and motivated than ever."

Jenkins is the fifth major acquisition for the Eagles, who, along with landing Asomugha, found Kevin Kolb's replacement by giving Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young a one-year deal. The team also signed defensive end Jason Babin away from the Titans and acquired cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie from the Arizona Cardinals in the Kolb trade.

"It's exciting," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said. "It's really exciting to put it all together, and we want to see them out here out on the field and get going."

Jenkins started 66 games in seven seasons with the Packers, with a career-high seven sacks in 11 games last year.

"This is a guy who we didn't think we'd have the opportunity to acquire," Roseman said. "The way things have worked out here in the past few days, when the opportunity came at us, we jumped on it."

Roseman said Jenkins will fill a variety of roles in the Eagles' newly structured defense under first-year coordinator Juan Castillo. But his main role will be as an inside pass rusher.

"On third down, he rushes from inside," Roseman said. "We think he makes a difference in that role. In this defense and in this scheme, it really utilizes all his talents."

To make room for Jenkins, the Eagles traded defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley to the Cleveland Browns for a 2012 fifth-round draft pick.

The Eagles also re-signed unrestricted free agent linebacker Akeem Jordan.

Roseman said he's hearing from agents of players around the league who want to be Eagles.

"People want to come to Philadelphia because of the organization, having coach (Andy) Reid and having a quarterback like Michael (Vick) and the players we have here," he said. "I think they're all great selling points. When you talk to agents, people want to come to Philly."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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No trade for Eagles' Kolb imminent as window for deals opens

The Philadelphia Eagles hope to receive a first-round draft pick in exchange for backup quarterback Kevin Kolb, according to sources, but they might not be able to do so. As of Tuesday morning, there was no trade on the table, and this situation could take more time than most expected.

Any Kolb trade would have to include contract negotiations with his new team, and the market remains now as it was expected, with the Arizona Cardinals interested in the fifth-year pro.

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The Seattle Seahawks were said to be interested in Kolb at one point, but they opted to go in a different direction because of reservations about how steep the Eagles' price would be in trade compensation and financial compensation paid to the quarterback.

The Seahawks have agreed to terms with quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, who played under offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell in Minnesota. Seattle also is expected to sign Matt Leinart, coach Pete Carroll's former quarterback at USC, to join Charlie Whitehurst as signal-callers on the roster.

Kolb also could end up remaining in Philadelphia if the team can't receive what it deems to be fair value. Furthermore, the Eagles could retain Kolb into the future with a franchise tag if need be, so it's not a foregone conclusion that he would become an unrestricted free agent in 2012, a possible leverage chip for the team.

Kolb was anointed the Eagles' starting quarterback entering the 2010 season, only to sustain a concussion and then watch Michael Vick take over the job.

Kolb recently stated that although he respects Eagles coach Andy Reid a great deal, he would like to move on to a team for which he could start.

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Vick unsure if Jackson will report when Eagles open camp

PHILADELPHIA -- Michael Vick was one of the first Eagles at team headquarters, lifting weights, catching up with teammates, doing all types of activities inside the state-of-the-art complex that he was banned from during the lockout.

He's ready to report Wednesday to training camp, even without a new contract.

Though Vick's not so sure his top target will join him.

Even with the lockout over, trouble looms for the Philadelphia Eagles after Vick suggested DeSean Jackson could hold out of training camp because the two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver is unhappy with his contract. Jackson enters the final year of his four-year rookie deal, and is set to earn $600,000, way below the market value for a top-flight receiver.

Vick said he doesn't know if Jackson will report to Lehigh University based on a conversation they had Monday.

"DeSean just has some things to think about," Vick said, "and some decisions to make that only himself can make."

Jackson's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, did not immediately return a request for comment. Rosenhaus and client Terrell Owens battled for a new deal with the Eagles in training camp in 2005. T.O. never held out, though he was eventually booted out of camp and, later, off the team.

But wait, there's more.

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Kevin Kolb, once groomed as the heir apparent to Donovan McNabb, did not attend the voluntary workout Tuesday because he is on the trading block. It seems unlikely he'll be asked to report to camp this week as the Eagles work out a trade.

Kolb started last season as the No. 1 quarterback until a concussion opened the path for Vick's emergence. Vick responded with 21 touchdowns, 3,018 passing yards and was voted to the Pro Bowl. Kolb has been rumored to be traded to Arizona, and it appears his time with the franchise is over. Vick said Kolb, through text messages, is excited about his future.

"We'll see how it all plays out," Vick said, "but we're rooting for him."

Jackson wants a new deal. Kolb wants out. And Vick? Well, he's not demanding a contract extension, but the 2010 NFL Comeback Player of the Year is due one. The Eagles designated Vick with the franchise tag before the lockout, and now have until Sept. 20 to sign him to a multiyear contract or extension.

He's set to earn about $16 million this year. Vick once had a $130 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons that was the NFL's richest.

Vick said he's focused on football and not yet worried about signing a new contract -- or of negotiations becoming a distraction over the first month of the season.

"Everything happens when it's supposed to," he said. "I put that in the hands of God and this organization to make it happen."

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie did not talk to reporters as he walked into the NovaCare facility for a meeting.

Coach Andy Reid, starting his 13th season, is set to take questions on Wednesday when the Eagles open training camp in Bethlehem, Pa. The Eagles practice for the first time on Thursday and hold their first public practice Saturday morning. Camp will break at Lehigh on Aug. 17.

Dozens of Eagles made a pit stop in Philadelphia before departing for camp. Defensive end Trent Cole, running back LeSean McCoy, safety Kurt Coleman and wide receiver Riley Cooper were among the players who popped in for workouts.

"It's been a little different," McCoy said. "I'm excited. I talked to a lot of coaches yesterday. I was happy to talk to them. I'm just geared up and ready to go. It's been a long wait. Not knowing which way it would turn out, I'm definitely glad it turned out in a positive way."

Vick was surprised the lockout dragged on for 18 weeks.

"I thought it would be over soon," he said. "It's tough when you have so many agreements to put in place, so many moving parts. There were too many intelligent people working on everything, the CBA itself, not to get it done. It doesn't surprise me that we're here now, actually on time. It's a credit to those guys on both sides."

Vick had already lost two seasons of his career while incarcerated for 18 months in a federal prison for dogfighting. He was a seldom-used backup his first year in Philadelphia, then saw his career skyrocket after taking over for Kolb in Week 2. He led the Eagles to a 10-6 record and the NFC East title.

He's not wasting any more precious days of his career. Wearing a Nike headband, Vick enthusiastically spoke about handling the responsibility of being the No. 1 quarterback and leading the Eagles to a Super Bowl championship.

"It's more pressure, but that's what I thrive off," he said. "That comes with being a quarterback and being a great one. There's certain things you have to go through and be able to withstand in order to maintain greatness.

"That's what I'm on a quest for."

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press

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Eagles OC sees Vick possibly being better than Steve Young

Marty Mornhinweg believes Michael Vick could be better than Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young -- and he should know.

The Philadelphia Eagles' offensive coordinator not only coached Young during his last two Pro Bowl seasons in San Francisco in 1997 and 1998, he also coached Brett Favre in 1996 when the future Hall of Famer won his only Super Bowl title with the Green Bay Packers. Now Mornhinweg is in charge of Vick, and as he sees it, the sky's the limit.

"Mike's got a long way to go, but, you know what? I think he can be better than Steve," Mornhinweg recently told the Philadelphia Daily News.

Mornhinweg has been an underrated factor in the resurrection of Vick, who missed the entire 2007 and 2008 seasons while serving a federal prison sentence for leading a dogfighting ring.

When Mornhinweg landed in Philadelphia in 2003, his outstanding record as an assistant coach was overshadowed in many fans' minds by his disastrous head-coaching stint in Detroit. His Lions went 5-27 from 2001 to 2002, a stint best remembered for the game in which the coach chose to take the wind and not the ball in overtime against the Chicago Bears, who promptly scored to win.

But things turned around for Mornhinweg in Philly. The Eagles thrived under quarterback Donovan McNabb and now are even more explosive with Vick and a group of young playmakers led by wide receiver DeSean Jackson and running back LeSean McCoy.

With the Atlanta Falcons from 2001 to 2006, Vick was never able to improve upon his 81.6 passer rating from 2002. But in his first full season as the Eagles' starter, he put up a 100.2 rating while throwing for a career-high 3,018 yards.

"Here was a man who hasn't played for a couple of years," Mornhinweg said. "However, if he did it the right way, I thought he could be a Steve Young-type player."

To tap into even more of Vick's seemingly unlimited potential, Mornhinweg and quarterbacks coach Doug Pederson are focusing on two areas: improving red-zone performance and reducing sacks. Last season, Vick was sacked 34 times, a surprising number for arguably the most evasive quarterback in league history.

Said Mornhinweg: "Here is the situation Mike is in. He's got uncommon athleticism, so he can get away, on occasion, back-dooring it. There's that fine line when you need to throw it away or get it out to a hot receiver or use that athleticism to make that great play."

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Eagles' Jordan charged with misdemeanor assault in hometown

Eagles linebacker Akeem Jordan, who started three games for Philadelphia last season, was arrested early Sunday in his hometown of Harrisonburg, Va., and charged with misdemeanor assault and battery, The Daily News-Record reported Monday.

According to the Harrisonburg Police Department, the incident occurred in the parking lot of the Firetap Bar and Grill. Jordan, 25, was released on his own recognizance Monday.

"They got into a verbal altercation, which led to a physical disorderly incident," police spokeswomen Mary-Hope Vass told the Philadelphia Daily News. "The incident was reported to us on Sunday afternoon. The victim went to the magistrate and obtained the warrant. Jordan turned himself in Sunday without any issues."

She said the victim's condition is "nothing life-threatening."

Jordan's agent, Dr. Lynn Lashbrook, told the Daily News, "It's always unfortunate when these things happen. Circumstances happen, but I'm confident it will be figured out.

"He is cooperating fully. Getting into the details doesn't help anybody; it impedes the process. I stand behind the kid 100 percent. He's a first-class kid, but you always wish these things never happen. He's got a great track record as a citizen."

The Eagles are aware of the incident, but a team spokesman told the Daily News the club would not have a comment.

Jordan is a fifth-year pro who played collegiately at James Madison University. He started 10 games during the 2009 season, his best statistically in the NFL. That year, he had 71 tackles and two interceptions.

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Eagles owner talks about process of signing troubled players

Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie isn't afraid to take a chance on a reclamation project, as proven by the franchise star he now has behind center.

But Lurie made it clear the signing of Michael Vick following the quarterback's 18-month prison stint came only after a long look at both physical skills and personality makeup.

"We've shown we'll take chances if it's warranted," Lurie told the Philadelphia Inquirer on Wednesday.

Which, of course, begs the question: Are the Eagles interested in signing soon-to-be free agent Plaxico Burress?

The former Giants star was released from prison on Monday after a 22-month term stemming from a weapons conviction. Burress exited prison wearing a throwback Philadelphia Phillies cap, a not-so-subtle nod to one of his potential landings spots.

Burress would appear to be a good fit with the Eagles, but Lurie said properly judging a player goes beyond game tape and bio information.

"You can evaluate his talent. You can evaluate his age. But you can't evaluate where his heart and his head are at the moment," Lurie said. "Until you can do that ... it's far from enough information."

That was the case when the team began its flirtation with Vick that led to their signing of the quarterback in 2009.

"We evaluate case by case. It involved a lot of research into Michael -- what kind of teammate he was," Lurie said. "What his motivations were. How much he cared for the game."

As for Burress' recent choices in headwear, Eagles coach Andy Reid isn't one to make much of it.

"He must be a Phillies fan," he told the Inquirer. "If he'd had an Eagles hat on, then we'd talk."

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Attendance at Eagles' passing camp dwindles with Vick gone

Some players-only workouts are drawing up to 50 people. Not the Philadelphia Eagles'.

A "passing camp" that began two weeks ago in Evesham, N.J., drew just two Eagles players to Thursday's session: third-string quarterback Mike Kafka and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.

A few other players caught passes from Kafka at Thursday's session. St. Louis Rams wide receiver Danario Alexander and two undrafted free agents, wide receiver Marcus Harris of Murray State and cornerback Kevin Rutland of Missouri, joined in the workout.

Most of the Eagles' practices have drawn from six to 12 players, but with quarterback Michael Vick, who started the sessions, now working out with a personal coach in Virginia, attendance has dwindled. Kafka said he believes there won't be much of a crowd going forward, with offensive skill players dropping in and out.

"I know (Vick) has a vision, an idea, of what we want to do as this thing progresses," Kafka told The Inquirer. "So we'll see what Mike has to say about it."

Quarterback Kevin Kolb, the subject of rampant trade rumors, participated last week, but he has returned to Texas. Tight end Brent Celek, wide receivers Jason Avant, Riley Cooper and Sinorice Moss, and running backs LeSean McCoy and Eldra Buckley also have taken part, along with other NFL players who reside in the area.

Maclin doesn't believe attendance by everyone on the team is necessary.

"I look at it as in when you have a passing camp, I think, the guys that should show up are the quarterback, running back, tight end and receivers," Maclin said. "I don't see no reason that we should have a whole defense on the other side of the ball or the linemen going out there. ... More power to other teams if that's what they feel like is necessary and is going to help them be successful."

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Jacobs: Eagles, not Giants, likely for Burress after prison time

When Plaxico Burress is released from a New York state prison Monday, he must find work. But Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, one of Burress' closest friends, doesn't believe the wide receiver will do so with his former NFL team.

"No, he ain't coming to the Giants," Jacobs said Thursday, according to The Star-Ledger. "That's out of the question. He's got options, and it's good he can weigh his options. I would love him to be a part of the Giants, but I don't think that's even on his plate."

What's on Burress' plate, Jacobs believes, is joining the NFC East rival Philadelphia Eagles -- a possibility that has been recently speculated and later supported by the team's quarterback, Michael Vick, who served 19 months in a federal prison on dogfighting charges. Burress, 33, will have served 20 months after pleading guilty in 2009 to attempted criminal possession of a weapon following a November 2008 incident in which he accidentally shot himself in the leg at a New York nightclub.

Brooks: Burress is a fit in Philly

"I would hate to see him go to where I think he's going to go, from talking to him," said Jacobs, who speaks to Burress weekly and helps his wife and children. "It's pretty tough to deal with all those different combinations that they can present. ...

"(The Eagles) have a lot of dynamic players down there. "It wouldn't be a bad thing, he thinks, to go down there, because he wants to win. He wants to have a shot to win a Super Bowl right away. I don't know if that's the right mixture for him to do it, but they definitely have a lot of talent."

Jacobs also said Burress has told him he wouldn't mind playing for former Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, now coach of the St. Louis Rams.

Jacobs' comments about Burress mirror those of Giants left tackle David Diehl, who told NFL.com last month that he'd like the receiver to return but doesn't see it happening.

"If I were Plaxico, I don't think I would want to ...," Diehl said. "If I were in that position, in order to move on and start fresh, you have to get back to square one. That's getting back to playing football. That's getting back to yourself, and not only enjoying your family, but enjoying your life and being happy again. For him, I think that's somewhere else."

Not every Giant dismisses the idea of Burress returning to the team. Eli Manning, who threw the game-winning TD pass to Burress in Super Bowl XLII in February 2008, expressed his support for the receiver last month, saying, "I'm excited that he's getting out, and if the Giants or another team give him a shot, I'll look forward to getting him back into football." Defensive end Justin Tuck said Thursday that "I would love to have Plaxico back in Giants blue."

Even so, Jacobs is adamant that his friend will find a new NFL home.

"I just want to be happy for him," Jacobs said. "I just want him to be super happy that he's out, that he's a free man and he's able to continue his career."

Burress started his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2000, then joined the Giants in 2005. He has 505 catches for 7,845 yards and 55 TDs.

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Eagles QB Kolb tries to stay positive while trade rumors swirl

Kevin Kolb showed up to Philadelphia Eagles players' workouts Thursday. Whether or not he'll play with them next season is another question.

The quarterback, whose name has been batted around in trade speculation all offseason, can't be dealt to a new team until the NFL lockout, now in its third month, is over. When that happens is anyone's guess, so for now, Kolb is trying to make the best of it.

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"It's pretty tough," Kolb told the Philadelphia Inquirer. "But, you all have known me for a long time, and the way I handle things is I keep my mind and keep the things out of my life. So I don't pay too much attention to it.

"It's hard when it has to do with my life. But I keep a positive attitude and keep moving forward and whatever happens I'll be ready to roll."

The Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns are among the teams mentioned are possibly being interested in acquiring Kolb, who lost his starting job last year after he was injured and Michael Vick stepped in to play at a Pro Bowl level. With his future uncertain, Kolb had stayed at his Texas home almost all offseason, but he said he feels good being back with his Eagles teammates.

"I've been working hard," Kolb said. "Obviously, these dudes have been working hard, too. It was good to get back out here, more than just the throwing, to be around the guys again."

Eagles third-string quarterback Mike Kafka, who said Wednesday that he's ready to be the No. 2 guy if needed, also attended Thursday's workout in Evesham, N.J. Vick, who organized the week's sessions, wasn't there, but the Inquirer noted the quarterback had a speaking engagement in Philadelphia in the afternoon.

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Eagles promote O-line coach Castillo to defensive coordinator

The Philadelphia Eagles searched far and wide for a new defensive coordinator. In the end, they found him on their offensive coaching staff.

Juan Castillo spent 13 seasons as the Eagles' offensive line coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator Wednesday. (Brian Garfinkel/Associated Press)

Juan Castillo, who spent 13 seasons as the Eagles' offensive line coach and has been with the organization for 16 years, will switch to the defensive side of the ball and replace Sean McDermott, who was fired Jan. 15. The team, which lured Howard Mudd out of retirement to replace Castillo as offensive line coach, made the announcement Wednesday.

"It's a tribute to the hard work, the diligence and the kind of football coach he is," Eagles coach Andy Reid said of Castillo's promotion. "I think if you have the opportunity to talk to any player, if you have an opportunity to talk to any coach that has been a Philadelphia Eagle, and many coaches throughout the league, what might seem a little strange is just a very confident move, and one that will take our defense to another level."

A former linebacker at Texas A&I (1978-80), Castillo, 51, played for the USFL's San Antonio Gunslingers (1984-85) and also was an assistant at Texas A&M-Kingsville from 1982 to 1985.

"I think if you talk to the defensive guys, especially the front seven, I've always told them I'm a defensive guy who got stuck on the offensive side," Castillo said. "That took a lot of years of studying. That was a tough deal. What happens is you start to be perceived as an offensive guy."

Castillo is one of few NFL coaches of Hispanic descent. He is fluent in Spanish and has promoted the NFL product for its Spanish-speaking audience.

"Juan is one of the smartest and most dynamic coaches in the NFL," Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera said. "If anyone could cross over to the dark side (of defense), he's the guy. Seriously, if anyone can do it, Juan Castillo is able to do it. I don't know if I have seen anyone any more committed as a coach in this league than him."

Castillo joined the Eagles in 1995 as an offensive assistant under coach Ray Rhodes. Castillo was promoted to tight ends coach in 1997, then offensive line coach in 1998.

"I have a strong affinity for Juan going back to our days spent together in Philadelphia," Minnesota Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said. "I can remember Jim Johnson and our defensive staff putting our game plans together and we'd always get together with Juan just to make sure they were sound in terms of pressures and blitzes. Sometimes, I felt like he was on our defensive staff. And to do this day, he and I talk every week during the season to talk about other offenses in the league."

Castillo was one of four members of Rhodes' staff to be retained by Reid in 1999.

"Great move by Coach Reid," said St. Louis Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo, a former Eagles assistant. "Juan is a football junkie who has always studied the entire game. He's a detailed, aggressive and passionate football coach -- all attributes vital to coaching defense."

The Eagles confirmed that they interviewed New Orleans Saints defensive backs coach Dennis Allen and Chicago Bears secondary coach Jon Hoke for the defensive coordinator job.

The Philadelphia Inquirer and the Star Tribune in Minneapolis cited league sources in reporting Wednesday that Vikings assistant Joe Woods also interviewed for the position.

The Eagles won the NFC East this season, but they lost to the eventual conference champion Green Bay Packers, 21-16, in the wild-card round at Lincoln Financial Field. After a dramatic, come-from-behind, 38-31 victory over the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium, the Eagles finished the season with three consecutive losses, all at home.

McDermott's defense finished 12th in the NFL, giving up 327.2 yards per game.

Mudd, 68, brings 36 years of coaching experience to the Eagles' staff. He most recently spent 11 seasons as the Colts' offensive line coach.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Eagles' Vick casts his vote for MVP: 'I would take ... myself'

PHILADELPHIA -- Michael Vick's MVP pick?

That would be Michael Vick.

Asked after practice Friday whom he would select if he had a vote, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback said, "You put me on the spot."

Then he added with a smile: "I would take ... myself."

Vick and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady are widely considered the top two candidates for the award, which has been won or shared by a quarterback 17 of the past 23 years.

Brady leads the NFL with a 109.9 passer rating. In his past nine games, he has thrown 21 touchdown passes and no interceptions. The Patriots (12-2) have won 11 of their past 12 games.

Vick's 103.6 passer rating is third-highest in the NFL and leads the NFC. He also has 613 rushing yards and has run for eight TDs -- more than all but nine NFL running backs.

Vick spent Christmas in 2007 and 2008 incarcerated at Leavenworth Penitentiary in Kansas while serving an 18-month sentence on federal charges of running an illegal dogfighting ring.

"I'm just blessed to be here," Vick said. "I spent two Christmases in Kansas, and that was by far the toughest thing I've had to do. Each and every year, I reflect on that, and I think it will always make the holiday season more gratifying.

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"(I'm) just thankful for a lot, thankful for the opportunity that I've been given, thankful for the blessings, and hopefully they'll continue to come."

The Eagles (10-4) would clinch the NFC East title Sunday with either a home win over the Minnesota Vikings (5-8) or a Packers victory over the New York Giants in Green Bay.

"We all know what's on the line," Vick said. "We know what's at stake. Like I say each and every week, every game is going to be a tough game. You have to go and play as hard as you can. You can't let up and you can't go into a game sure you're going to win. You have to earn it. That's our mentality and that's our mindset, and this week is no different."

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Vikes' Favre still doubtful; Peterson ready to go vs. Eagles

Minnesota Vikings coach Leslie Frazier announced Monday that quarterback Brett Favre has yet to pass the first part of his concussion test and remains doubtful for the team's Tuesday night showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles, according to the Star Tribune.

Favre led the Vikings on a touchdown drive to open the game Monday night against the Chicago Bears, but he didn't make it through the second quarter after being sacked by Corey Wootton. Favre's head slammed off the frigid turf at TCF Bank Stadium, and he was knocked woozy.

The Vikings didn't list Favre, 41, as "out" Monday, as they did last week when he had a sprained right shoulder. He was upgraded to questionable the day of the game and ended up starting against the Bears.

Frazier said earlier this week that no Vikings player had participated in a game the week after suffering a concussion.

Pro Bowl running back Adrian Peterson told the Star Tribune that he will play Tuesday.

Peterson was listed as questionable with the thigh bruise that kept him out of the game against the Bears and said that the extra two days off "helps a lot."

The Associated Press contributed to this report

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Vikings RB Peterson hopes to shake thigh injury, play vs. Eagles

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- There are just two games left in the Minnesota Vikings' miserable season, and Adrian Peterson is hobbling around with a painful thigh bruise.

With the playoffs out of reach, why risk further injury to the team's most dynamic player? Why not sit him for the final two weeks and make sure he is ready to go next season?

Peterson doesn't see it that way. The Vikings are 5-9 and going nowhere fast, but he wants to be out there with his teammates until the bitter end.

"It's been a roller-coaster season. It hasn't gone the way we planned," Peterson said Thursday. "But I love to play this game. That's why I do what I do. I definitely don't think that way about it. If I can play, I'll definitely be out there on Sunday."

Peterson injured his left thigh two weeks ago when he collided with Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson on a handoff. Peterson missed Monday night's game against the Chicago Bears, the first time he has sat out since missing two games with a knee injury his rookie season in 2007.

"It's nothing like a torn ligament or anything like that," Peterson said. "I don't feel like I can do any further damage to it. It's basically just a quad. Muscles are just tight. Pushing it will probably help it stretch a little more."

Peterson did some running in practice Thursday for the first time this week, and Vikings interim coach Leslie Frazier said the running back has dramatically improved over the last several days. If Peterson can't play, rookie Toby Gerhart will receive the bulk of the work.

The Vikings lost 40-14 to the Bears and have been outscored 61-17 in the last two weeks, showing signs that some are packing it in and thinking about the offseason. Peterson isn't among them. He practiced on a limited basis Thursday and said he hopes to play Sunday night.

Peterson has been one of the few bright spots for a Minnesota team in such a trying season. He has rushed for 1,149 yards and 11 touchdowns and appears to have solved his fumbling problem. After leading the NFL with 16 fumbles over the previous two seasons, Peterson hasn't lost one this year in 280 touches.

"That's a story that's not been written about enough, the kind of year he's having, even though our team is not having a great year," Frazier said. "But Adrian, he is having a Pro Bowl season, there's no question about it."

Brett Favre again missed practice Thursday with a concussion, and Frazier said the 41-year-old quarterback was still experiencing some symptoms from the injury. Favre will go through another concussion test Friday, as will safety Madieu Williams.

Defensive tackle Kevin Williams also missed practice for personal reasons, but Frazier expected him to return Friday.

Frazier said none of the Vikings who had concussions this season played the week after being hurt.

"It can vary from person to person. Some guys respond a little bit better," Frazier said. "But in this era, where we're very cautious when it comes to head injuries, you're just very cautious. But it varies from guy to guy. Some guys have fewer symptoms than another two days later or a day later."

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Jackson caps Eagles' historic comeback with electrifying punt return

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Call it "The Great Escape."

Michael Vick engineered it. DeSean Jackson capped it. And the Philadelphia Eagles have control of the NFC East firmly in their hands because of it.

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Jackson scored on a 65-yard punt return on the last play of the game and the Eagles scored a team-record 28 points in the final 7:28 to stun the New York Giants 38-31 and take over first place in the NFC East.

"By far, this is one of the greatest comebacks of my career, being down by such a huge deficit," Vick said after accentuating his candidacy for the MVP award by throwing for two touchdowns and running for another in the incredible late rally that all but clinched the division for the Eagles (10-4).

"We were able to come back in a short period of time," added Vick, who threw for 242 yards and three touchdowns overall and ran for a game-high 130 yards. "It's outstanding. I give a lot of credit to my teammates. I have to thank God for the opportunity but it was, by far, one of the best."

The win gave the Eagles a sweep of the season series with New York (9-5). They need to either win one of their final two home games (Minnesota or Dallas) or have New York lose one of its two road games (Green Bay or Washington).

For Giants fans it brought back memories of "The Fumble" by Joe Pisarcik, the giveaway that allowed another group of Eagles to steal a late win in 1978 when all New York had to do was take a knee.

The loss left Giants coach Tom Coughlin so angry he threw his notes as Jackson backed into the end zone on his only punt return of game.

"I've never been around anything like this in my life," Coughlin said. "It's about as empty as you get to feel in this business, right there."

Until the rally, Jackson was more worried about making the playoffs.

"I probably don't even realize how big it is," said Jackson, who battled a foot injury all week and told coach Andy Reid only to use him on punt returns if the game was on the line.

Reid gave him the signal -- a whistle -- before the last punt to get on the field. The rest is the final chapter in the great escape.

"This is a special one," Reid said. "It was an exciting one. It was as exciting for you guys. It was a great day to be a Philadelphia writer."

Atlanta clinched a playoff spot with the Giants' loss.

Jackson's winning return came with game seemingly headed for overtime with 14 seconds to play.

Rookie Matt Dodge, who had been instructed to punt the ball out of bounds, got a high snap and hurried to get his kick off. He hit a line drive kick that Jackson bobbled at his 35. Once he regained control, Jackson broke through the initial wave of coverage and sped down the right sideline. It was apparent he was about to score, but instead of simply going into the end zone, he danced along the goal line before going in with zeros showing on the clock.

"I always try to do something out of the ordinary," Jackson said. "I probably would have dove in from the 12-yard line if I could. I knew nobody was going to catch me. I look to do things for excitement. The fans pay for that. I just wanted to bring that out of them."

As Jackson scored, the Eagles jumped on each other in a celebration they never could have expected. They were victimized by Eli Manning's four touchdown passes, including an 8-yarder to Kevin Boss with 8:17 to play for a 31-10 lead.

This loss could cripple the Giants' playoff hopes. They need to win out to clinch a postseason berth and the Packers' game will be crucial, especially because the final playoff spot might come down to head to head with New York and Green Bay.

Vick started the comeback with a 65-yard scoring pass to tight end Brent Celek on which the Eagles caught defensive end Justin Tuck in coverage.

New York fell asleep on the ensuing kickoff and Riley Cooper recovered David Akers' onside kick, a play on which the kicker may have been offside. A 13-yard pass to Jackson and a 35-yard run by Vick set up the quarterback's 4-yard TD run with 5:28 to go, cutting the lead to 31-24.

New York had a chance to run out the clock, getting to a second-and-6 at the Eagles 38. However a procedure penalty forced a punt and the Eagles tied the game with an eight-play, 88-yard drive that featured scrambles of 33 and 22 yards by Vick. He eventually capped the series with a 13-yard pass to Jeremy Maclin with 1:16 to go.

"When you are a part of it as long as I have been, you see a lot of crazy things," Giants' 11-year veteran linebacker Keith Bulluck said. "We had control the whole game, but that is why this game is so great. You have to play for 60 minutes, because in those 60 minutes anything can happen."

It did, and the Eagles made it happen in what has been a sensational season for Vick a little more than a year and a half after being released from federal custody for his part in a dogfighting ring.

The Giants dominated the opening half, outgaining the Eagles' top-ranked offense 222-74. Vick was under constant pressure, sacked twice, hit about a half-dozen other times and limited to six completions for 33 yards and only his fifth interception of the season.

Manning was given time by his line and made the most of it, leading New York on touchdown drives of 71, 73 and 8 yards, the last coming when Maclin lost a fumble late in the half and safety Kenny Phillips returned the ball to the Philadelphia 8 with :09 to go.

Manning found Nicks in the right corner 4 seconds later for a 24-3 halftime lead.

Manningham, limited all week in practice because of a hip flexor, showed up big-time on game day, catching touchdown passes of 35 and 33 yards to open a 14-3 lead.

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Philadelphia's defense set up its first three points. Darryl Tapp tipped a pass and Quintin Mikell intercepted at the Giants 45. An 11-yard scramble by Vick and a personal foul gave the Eagles a first down at the 19. They got a 34-yard field goal by Akers.

Manning made up for the mistake on the next series, capping a 73-yard drive with the 33-yard pass to Manningham, who motored the final 20 yards after Dimitri Patterson slipped.

NOTES: The punt return TD was the fourth of Jackson's career. ... The Eagles have rallied to win four of their last five games, outscoring opponents 79-21 in the fourth quarter of that span. It was the ninth time in NFL history a team trailed by 21 points in the fourth quarter and won the game, and the first by the Eagles. Their 28 fourth-quarter points were the most in team history.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Eagles S Allen out for season with ruptured patellar tendon

PHILADELPHIA -- Eagles rookie safety Nate Allen has a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee and will have season-ending surgery.

Allen, drafted with the second-round pick Philadelphia acquired from Washington in the Donovan McNabb trade, is the fourth defensive starter to go down for the season.

A potential fifth, middle linebacker Stewart Bradley, is out with a dislocated elbow and may not return until the playoffs.

Allen was hurt in the Eagles' 38-31 win over the New York Giants. His knee appeared to buckle while he tackled Mario Manningham.

He'll join rookie defensive end Brandon Graham, defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley and cornerback Ellis Hobbs on injured reserve. Rookie Kurt Coleman, a seventh-round pick, takes Allen's starting spot.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Eagles' Avant knocked out during Jackson's punt return

All eyes were on Eagles return man DeSean Jackson on Sunday when he fielded a punt on the game's final play and zig-zagged his way through the entire special teams unit of the New York Giants to give the Eagles a 38-31 win.

All eyes except for those of Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant, who said he was briefly knocked out after throwing a block for Jackson and colliding with Giants long snapper Zak DeOssie, according to the Philadelphia Daily News on Monday.

"When I saw (Jackson) break the initial wave, and I saw a lane to the right, I knew if I got (DeOssie), he was gonna score," Avant told the newspaper. "So I just threw it in there. I knew he scored. Me being knocked out just reminded me of a dream I had of us winning on the last play, but I didn't know who it was against."

Eagles coach Andy Reid confirmed in his news conference Monday that Avant has a slight concussion, and tested very well.

DeOssie said after the game that he thought he would be the one to prevent Jackson from scoring.

"I thought I had a great angle. I thought I was going to stop him. I don't have eyes in the back of my head," DeOssie said.

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Eagles QB Vick leads all players in Pro Bowl voting

PHILADELPHIA -- Michael Vick leads Pro Bowl voting 1½ years after he was released from federal prison.

The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback had 729,838 fan votes, nearly 39,000 more than second-place Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, the NFL said Wednesday. Manning topped the balloting two weeks ago.

"I think it's just a credit to everything I've tried to accomplish on and off the field, just working as hard as I can to change things around, be a part of the solution and not the problem," Vick said. "I changed my life, and it just goes to show anybody can do it. It's an unfortunate situation, the things that happened. I wish I could go back and change it all. I wish I could take it all back. The only thing I can do is move forward."

It's the latest evidence that many fans seem willing to forgive Vick for the vicious dogfighting operation that sent him to prison for 18 months -- and embrace his stunning return to NFL stardom. A backup to start the season, Vick has led the Eagles to first place in the NFC East, accounting for 21 touchdowns and throwing just two interceptions.

"I appreciate my fans, man," Vick said. "Couldn't do it without them. Been very supportive over the last three years. What more can you ask for?"

Manning had 691,146 votes, which led the AFC, followed by New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (623,074), Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (591,598) and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (547,340).

Online Pro Bowl voting ends Dec. 20. The teams are picked by a vote combination from fans, players and coaches.

Vick, a three-time Pro Bowl pick with the Atlanta Falcons, pleaded guilty to federal dogfighting charges in August 2007. He was released from federal custody and conditionally reinstated by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in July 2009. But it wasn't clear how much interest teams would have in the quarterback who once wowed fans with his unique skills, yet frustrated them with his inconsistency when he last played in the league in 2006.

The Eagles signed Vick before last season, when he was the third-string quarterback and had limited playing time as a change of pace. Even after Philadelphia traded away Donovan McNabb, Vick was expected to back up Kevin Kolb. But when Kolb was hurt in the opener, Vick took over and showed a newfound maturity as a passer. Added to his running skills, he has made the Eagles a contender at 8-4.

"It's a great honor, a great position to be in right now, because I haven't made the Pro Bowl yet, but it's a credit to my coaches, a credit to my teammates, (backups) Mike Kafka, Kevin Kolb, guys who just helped me get through this season," Vick said. "I can't do it without my team, I can't do it without my teammates, I can't do it without the offensive line, (wide receivers) DeSean (Jackson) and Jeremy (Maclin), can't do it without them. I'm just thankful to have these guys in my life, these coaches in my life."

The Eagles visit the Dallas Cowboys (9-3) on Sunday.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press

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Cutler tosses four TDs to lead Bears over Eagles

CHICAGO -- Jay Cutler tied a career high with four touchdown passes and the Chicago Bears beat Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles 31-26 to take sole possession of the NFC North lead on Sunday.

The win was their fourth straight and it put them a game ahead of Green Bay in the division. It also came against one of the top teams in the NFC.

The Eagles (7-4) had won three straight, but were unable to break off big plays against one of the league's stingiest defenses and fell into a tie with the New York Giants for the NFC East lead.

Vick threw for 333 yards and two touchdowns. But he also threw his first interception in four years when he got picked off by Chris Harris in the end zone late in the first half, stopping a potential go-ahead scoring drive.

Julius Peppers had a sack for Chicago (8-3) after collecting three the previous week, and the Bears got that signature win after beating struggling teams like Buffalo, Minnesota and the injury-ravaged Dolphins.

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Eagles WR Jackson 'ready to roll' vs. Colts, coach says

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