I've come up with my list of the five most indispensible Eagles.
Donovan McNabb – My list starts with McNabb because he's the guy that gives them a chance to be World Champions because he can make the great play with his feet or arm to take the Birds up to another level. Paired with a running game he will give them a chance to beat the top AFC teams. Donovan has developed a great eye for reading defenses and anticipating what they're going to do. I'd like to see Andy let him call more plays on the field. Without him they don't have a chance against the Pats, Chargers and Colts. The other Eagles QB's don't have nearly as much talent.
Brian Westbrook – The thing that seperates BWest from the other Eagles backs is his versatility. He's got great ability as a ballcarrier but it doesn't stop there. Brian runs his routes and catches the ball like a wide receiver which gives the Birds ability to create and take advantage of a mismatch which is Westbrook on a safety or linebacker. He's got a tremendous feel for the game. The Eagles aren't the same football team without him.
Brian Dawkins – Dawk single-handedly carried the defense down the stretch by making big play after big play. His versatility as a safety is rare in the league. He can support the run and tackle like the best of them. Dawk can blitz and create havoc in the opposing backfield. In addition he can cover wideouts one on one and close on the ball from sideline to sideline when he's playing over the top as a deep safety. The Eagles defense would be in major trouble without him.
William Thomas – You can't run your offense without a good offensive tackle on the QB's blindside. William had a great season a year ago but didn't really get the credit I think he deserves. If you're not talking about the left offensive tackle then he's doing a great job. Thomas is one of the major reasons the Eagles have been able to rely on their pass offense so much. He's a big reason that area of the offense has excelled over the years. I know promising young Winston Justice backs him up, but you can't be sure about Justice until he gets in there and does the job. Thomas' presence allows Andy to get good sleep at night.
David Akers – He's been around so long and he's been so dependable that Akers gets taken for granted. David is one of the reasons the Eagles have won so many close games. They aren't the same team without him because they won't have the same confidence in any kicker, they bring in to replace him. He has shown tremendous consistency and focus over the years. Plus he has a strong leg and does a good job in Lincoln Financial Field which is a tough place to kick.
I know some will say why isn't All-Pro Shawn Andrews on this list. I don't think the offensive guard position is as demanding as the tackle positions especially left tackle. Who knows if the Eagles run the ball they way I hope they will, I might have to change my opinion.
Give me your list of five in the Forums.
