Andy Reid talked about his sons' problems and answered some questions about how his family situation has affected his ability to perform his duties as the Eagles head coach.
Head Coach Andy Reid Press Conference
11-2-07
Injuries:
“[DE] Jevon Kearse did not practice today, he has a knee inflammation. He is listed as probable, as is [RT] Jon Runyan. Jon did not practice, likewise. [WR] Jason Avant has a groin strain that he’s working through. We think he’ll be able to go, but we’ll just see how he does here in the next couple days.”
Opening remarks:
“On a personal note, I know this is a big story for everybody, and I respect that. On the other hand, I can’t go into questioning on it at this time. However, as parents, obviously we have a huge concern for our two boys. This has been a battle that we’ve dealt with here for a few years, and I’m sure we’ll continue to address the situation. Again, we appreciate everybody’s support and all the kind words that have been said. Our prayers are obviously with the boys for their future, and make sure things work out where they could live a normal life down the road. Again, I just hope that you would be sensitive to the questioning. Again, I appreciate the support. With that, I’d like to go into Dallas and the football game at hand. I’m very proud of the team for how they practiced yesterday, without me being there, which shows the great leadership we have on the coaching staff and with the players that they took the ball and ran with it and really had a nice practice, as they did today. We have a lot of respect for the Dallas Cowboys. They are the top team in the NFC at this moment, and are very well deserving of that. They’ve done a heck of a job of playing very good football this year. We look forward to the challenge of playing them on Sunday night.”
On what he can say to assure that the on-the-field product will not be affected by things going on off the field:
“I did have a chance to review the film and talk to the coaches and some of the players. The true leadership of this team showed up yesterday. They just had a tremendous practice.”
On whether he intends to continue as head coach:
“Yes.”
On the support he has received from players:
“They have been tremendous. They’ve been great.”
On his ability to continue coaching:
“The biggest part right now, for the group, is the Dallas Cowboys. In their mind, that’s the number one thing, and it will continue to be that as we go forward. Like I said, they’ve done a heck of a job of it.”
On whether he is concerned about the public perception and the way it could affect the team:
“It’s important that that they worry about the Dallas Cowboys. That’s the number one thing that the players and coaches need to concentrate on. They’ve done a very good job of that.”
