This month marks the 88th year since the inception of the Philadelphia Eagles. Opening the franchise with a 56-0 beat down from the New York Giants, it had to go up from there. Four league championships, 14 divisional championships, and 27 playoff appearances later, the franchise is in the middle of one of its most important rebuilds. New coach, new quarterback, and a boat load of draft stock for next year’s draft leaves many birthday wishes for the Eagles this year.
Darius Slay (2)
New number, new year. Although Slay was considered to have had a “down year” last season, he is the only reliable piece amongst the cornerbacks. However, the Eagles need much more production than one interception and six defended passes this season. Both of which were career lows since his rookie season. In a division with the likes of Amari Cooper, Terry McLaurin, and Kenny Golladay, Slay has to be better. Eagles and fans wish for that lock-down corner he was in Detroit.
(via Darius Slay twitter @bigplay24slay)
Jalen Hurts and DeVonta Smith (1+6)
One of the most interesting QB-WR combinations constructed this off-season. Two former national champion teammates reunite in a city where expectations are high. Almost too high, but gives Eagles fans hope after a breakup with Carson Wentz and Coach Doug Pederson. The entire season relies on Hurts having a breakout season, which certainly is dependent of Smith playing his rookie season at a high level. With a wide receiver corp that is very young, WR1 is his for the taking. This franchise cannot handle another “Eagles drafted this wide receiver over that wide receiver” ridicule, so Smith needs to be that guy.
Rodney McLeod (23)
The leader of the defense is coming off another tragic season-ending knee injury for the second time in the last three years. Not only is McLeod crucial for his on-the-field contributions, but just as much off. This is a year where K’Von Wallace is expected to improve upon his rookie season. He stands to gain a lot from McLeod, especially if McLeod starts the season on the injury report. On top of the CB2 spot being a huge question mark, McLeod’s play making abilities allows him to flow to that side of the field to help avoid big plays if the cornerback struggles.
Super Bowl LVI (56)
The biggest hail Mary of a wish for the Eagles is the Super Bowl, but you play to win the game. Although the odds are very much against the Eagles, a Super Bowl is the hope year-in, year-out. Not to mention, the Eagles four game winning streak in The Golden State being extended to five would be nice. A winning record and division title are the first goals, but why not dream big for the 88th birthday?
(via National Football League)
Happy birthday Philadelphia Eagles! Time to blow out those candles and get to work.
Featured image: Philadelphia Eagles Bleeding Green Nation tumblr
The post 88 Birthday Wishes for the Eagles appeared first on Philadelphia Sports Nation.
Leave a Reply