Eagles Should Make Run at the Top Spot in NFC East or Wild Card

By Isaac Barrow: The Philadelphia Eagles are one of the most storied franchises in the history of the National Football League. They have won three Championships (1948, 1949, 1960) and last won the NFC Chamionship in 2004. The last few years, however, the Eagles have struggled with the Terrell Owens saga and Donovan McNabb staying healthy. The biggest problem, though, has been the wide receivers. That problem looks solved after they drafted WR/PR DeSean Jackson.

Last year, the Eagles were just 8-8, but Donovan McNabb missed just two games and played as well as anybody last year. Brian Westbrook did everything he could to get this team to contend. The defense looks good, with Omar Gaither at linebacker, Trent Cole anchoring the defensive line and one of the best corners in the NFL in Asante Samuel an Eagle.The line is very good too, with Jamaal Jackson, Shaun Andrews, Jon Runyan, Todd Herremans and William Thomas.

Don't be surprised if this Eagles team surprises! The Cowboys are a heavy favorite, but the Eagles have Donovan McNabb back and he doesn't look like he'll miss any significant time, Westbrook at RB, Jackson and Curtis catching passes as well as LJ Smith, plus the fact that they have a very talented defense in their primes.

The Eagles also have 2006 top draft pick Brodrick Bunkley starting. Bunkley should make a huge impact on this line. Bunkley and Cole will lead this defensive line. Bunkley had 32 tackles and 3 sacks as a rookie and Cole had 12 1/2 sacks and made the Pro Bowl for the 2nd straight year last year for the NFC squad.

If this Eagles team doesn't win the division, I think they could make a wild card with a 9 or 10 win season.

Additionally, Philly acquired linebacker Rocky Boiman this offseason. Boiman had 54 tackles last year and could grab a starting spot from Will Linebacker Chris Gocong. He also add veteran experience to a young linebacking corps.

They also added defensive end Chris Clemons, who had 20 tackles and eight sacks last year as a backup! Those are great numbers for a backup DE. Not many starters have more than 8 sacks.

Lastly, they re-signed corner Joselio Hanson. He won't start, but could contribute on special teams. Hanson had 52 tackles and 1 sack last year with the Eagles.

I firmly believe the Eagles will make a run for the playoffs this year and finish 10-6. Hopefully, it's true.