Eagles LB Stewart Bradley Out for Season

[Schneed10]

What's particularly interesting with the Eagles is how they choose to use their offensive line. It's now a huge group, with much better capability in drive-blocking. Shawn Andrews' return to the lineup makes the biggest impact in that department.

Their pass protection was pretty decent last year, certainly good enough to allow them to rack up impressive passing statistics. But it was their short-yardage run game that was pathetic. I distinctly remember on more than on occasion where Reid called 4 running plays from 1st and goal at like the 2, and failed to score. That's the component of the offense that is now vastly upgraded. There's not so much gelling that needs to be done when it comes to run blocking; that's an aspect of the game that's much more physical than mental. I don't think chemistry is a limiting factor for the run game.

However, the question is will they choose to run? Reid is notorious for a heavy pass balance. His line just got much better in the run department. But as Lotus pointed out, chemistry could be a problem in pass protection. The smart playcaller would dial up Westbrook and McCoy all day every day. Or at least increase the screen passes going to them. But Reid isn't the best playcaller. We'll see if he wastes that line's talent.

If he uses it right, that line could make their offense top 3 in the NFL. They'll need it, because their defense should be middle of the road without Bradley and Jim Johnson.