Cutting the End

The knives are out for Eagles defensive ends Jevon Kearse and Darren Howard. The Eagles PR machine kicked into high gear this week to help lay the groundwork for public acceptance of showing Kearse and Howard the door after the season. And as usual, the Philly papers are only too happy to oblige management’s campaign.

 

There are not one, not two, but three articles in the Daily News/Inquirer this week that go into great detail about Kearse and Howard’s poor play this year, their high salaries – especially compared to the other ends getting more playing time, and the salary cap implications of their departures. And that doesn’t even count this week’s glowing profile of Trent Cole, the Eagles other defensive end.

 

Yes, the Darren Howard signing in retrospect was a big mistake. But at $2-2.5 million per year, it’s not especially costly. And often overlooked is the flexibility Howard gives the defensive line as he usually shifts down to d-tackle on passing downs.

 

The Freak was a huge signing back in 2004. The premier defensive free agent at that time. While not posting the stats that were expected of him and his signing bonus, he has been a valuable contributor nonetheless. Indeed, in the Eagles super bowl run his true value was revealed by the coaches when he was one of four players completely held out of the late season games to avoid any possible injuries going into the playoffs.

 

And let’s not forget. He is coming off of a devastating knee injury that some people thought might end his career. Like McNabb, he should probably get somewhat of a pass this year and see where how his knee rehabs during a second off season. Alas, its improbable the Eagles will pay him the $6 million due him next season to find out.