Eagles' Sheppard to Play Wide Receiver? Not Likely

There was an interesting rumor circulating through Eagles fandom this past week, concerning the Eagles' star corner back Lito Sheppard.

Sheppard, who has been unhappy with his contract situation and is asking for a trade, was reported by ESPN to possibly be included as wide receiver in certain offensive packages this 2008 season. He was to be primarily used as a down field threat, something the Eagles didn't have since T.O. was in Philadelphia.This would make sense for several reasons. Firstly, Sheppard has reportedly been urging the team for years to include him in some offensive packages, a move that was experimented within college. Finally giving into his wishes may at least partially satisfy the disgruntled Sheppard.

This move may also end up benefiting the Eagles as well.

Lito Sheppard adds quickness and capability to an already speedy group of receivers: Kevin Curtis and Desean Jackson, among others. He also adds talent to one of the Eagles most needy positions, that of wide receiver.

So will we be seeing Lito Sheppard on an offensive set this season? While he may end up in a few during preseason, anything more than that is unlikely.

Firstly, playing Sheppard at wide receiver means a larger possibility of Sheppard getting injured again. Neither Sheppard nor the Eagles want that. And besides, a stint at wide receiver would bring down Lito's reputation as a high-profile corner, and invariably it may also end up bringing down his trade value on the market. An injury would bring it down even more.Finally, would the Eagles make this move out of desperation? We can only wait and see.