Updates on Mike Patterson, Jeremy Maclin

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Injuries are typically common at Eagles training camp at Lehigh, but this summer squad has been blindsided additionally by a pair of unusual medical conditions for two of its starters. While nothing has been confirmed yet for either Mike Patterson or Jeremy Maclin, we are hearing some possible good news for both.

First, Mike Patterson's agent spoke to certain members of the media on Friday, and while he did not got into great detail, he did allow that it is "very likely" Patt will play this season. Per the Inquirer's Jonathan Tamari:

"All the medical reports that we both looked at have been very
favorable and positive. We're just waiting for the doctors to make their
final diagnosis and their final treatment plan." Asked whether Patterson could play this year, [his agent] said, "it's very
likely that that will happen," but added "again, I'm not a doctor."

Patterson's agent also added they will have more information on Monday, and will make an announcement at that time. The seventh-year defensive tackle has something known as an AVM, which while a serious brain condition that can require surgery, is also very treatable. The Eagles have been hesitant to provide any kind of timetable for his return.

Meanwhile, as fans continue to speculate on Jeremy Maclin's mysterious illness, and concern grows that he could miss a ton of action in 2011, Andy Reid is trying is hardest to put those fires out.

The wide receiver entering his third season left the team last week to visit doctors in his home town St. Louis, but the head coach remains positive about having the second half of his one-two punch, telling reporters after Thursday night's preseason game:

“I think he’s going to be ready [for Week 1],” Reid said. “I guess I’m optimistic. I’m waiting to hear the results, but I’m optimistic.”

Maclin hasn't been practicing at all during training camp, and the Eagles adding Steve Smith didn't help to alleviate the wild rumors floating around. However, it should be noted Smith was moved to the Physically Unable to Perform list today. If he begins the regular season on the PUP, he will not be available until Week 6.

The fact that they don't know is certainly discouraging, but neither the team or Maclin seem to believe it will impact his career, much less this season. The opener is now only one month away though, so we will find out soon enough.

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