The Eagles traded for DeMeco Ryans to be their middle linebacker. The team also brought him in to be a vocal leader.
So far, hes doing both.
Who doesnt want a guy whos been to Pro Bowls, Rookie of the Year, a guy thats been through the storm in Houston? asked fellow linebacker Brian Rolle.
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Ryans brings experience and hes more vocal than a lot of us were last year. If he says something, the next day, they change it. So, hes experienced and the coaches are willing to take his advice.
Ryans has looked good through the rounds of OTAs and the first two days of the three-day mandatory minicamp, but its hard to tell. These practices are without pads and hitting.
Kelce not trying to be SaturdayEagles second-year center Jason Kelce recently spent a day with former Colts center Jeff Saturday (see story). The two spent the day together going over the teachings of offensive line coach Howard Mudd.
People automatically make that comparison, but even if you ask Howard and ask Jeff and me, Im not trying to be the next Jeff Saturday, Kelce said after Wednesdays practice. Thats not what Im trying to do. Im trying to be Jason Kelce, and Im trying to be the best player that I can be. Im going to take every piece of advice that Jeff gave to me, Ill put it that way.
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This and thatOffensive play of the day: Mike Vick hit Jeremy Maclin deep down the left sideline for a 30-40 yard completion. Maclin was ready for the ball on his inside shoulder but when it went to the outside, he twisted his body and made the grab over Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.
Defensive play of the day: Trevard Lindley collided with Brandon Boykin deep down the field on a pass intended for DeSean Jackson. The collision was pretty hard but Lindley was able to hold on to the ball.
Quote of the day: Howard! Are you a part of the media?Andy Reid to Mudd, who walked to the sideline to have a chat with analyst Brian Baldinger.
Stupid observation of the day: Matt Camilli wont make the team. Hes a long snapper and the team already has a long snapper in Jon Dorenbos. But Camilli has the longest hair on the team. Its long and blonde and if Riley Cooper doesnt get called Sunshine like the kid from Remember the Titans, that name should go to Cammilli.
Fletcher Cox missed the second day of the mandatory minicamp. He was traveling back to the team. His absence was excused after the death of his cousin in an automobile accident.
Rookie DE Vinny Curry missed practice again on Wednesday with a sore ankle. He watched from the sideline.
There is just one more day of this minicamp. After Thursday, the team wont meet again until late July in Lehigh for training camp. Rookies and injured players report on July 22 and veterans report on July 25. Camp breaks on August 15.
E-mail Dave Zangaro at dzangaro@comcastsportsnet.com