Donovan McNabb was an important leader on previous Eagles teams, but now he's much more important. I think he realizes that developing the talent of Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy and Cornelius Ingram may be the key to getting to the promised land.
The veteran quarterback likes the situation. He's got the opportunity to develop some eager and talented young men. They desperately want to win and he may want it even more.
McNabb made it a point to bring up the contrast between his age and the age of these youngsters. He mentioned that he's an 11 year veteran at 32 years of age and they have 20 and 21 year old players on the team.
The disparity in ages was best seen when it came out that McCoy had come to Eagles practice as a kid and gotten an autograph from him.
The Syracuse product said he likes to lead by example rather than talking a lot. He showed them how to work when they came to Arizona.
They would wake up early and spend the entire days working hard and trying to get better. He was right there working in front of them and showing the young fellas how it's done.
McNabb's work ethic and the fact that he likes to work is one of his strengths. It will help Maclin, McCoy and Ingram in not putting the cart before the horse. They've got to get ready in a hurry.
Despite the fact that he sees the talent, he isn't ready to go overboard about them. He knows how much work is ahead to get them ready to contribute in games against the best in the league.
McNabb likes the fact that these youngsters listen and he made it a point to give them credit for having that attitude.
I agree wholeheartedly.
These youngsters have good attitudes which is extremely important when it comes to learning. They're all respectful young men who are wise enough to listen when you're trying to share something with them.
The Birds veteran quarterback said he saw in them the desire to do whatever was necessary to win.
McNabb knows the journey they'll have to make to get the prize. He acknowleged the promise this team has but sobered everybody up by saying this team hasn't dug itself out of any deep holes, yet. They haven't battled together and gotten the job done, yet.
He knows the kids are going to hear everything he says about them, so he didn't stress their talent, he talked about the work.
I like this attitude because articles online don't win any games. All the talk doesn't get it done. These young players must focus on getting themelves ready to play which means learning the offensive and defensive systems, then putting on the pads and getting in some good work with their teammates.
