Celek Catching On

Good news for McNabb and the Eagles offense if TE Brent Celek can continue to build on and improve from his rookie season. As this story correctly notes, McNabb loves hooking up with his tight ends. Chad Lewis was McNabb’s sure handed, security blanket check down for years.

 

And a reliable Celek combined with LJ Smith would give the Eagles another offensive wrinkle (passing from double tight end formations, anyone?) to go with the matchup problems that Brian Westbrook creates.

 

As my friend Scott noted last year, what kind of gets lost in the focus on McNabb’s recovery from knee surgery was the absence of LJ Smith for extended stretches last year and the sports hernia that did impact his play when he was on the field. Like him or loathe him - and most fans loathe him when he fumbles one away – a healthy Smith was a significant factor in the Eagles offense. It’s the main reason the Eagles franchise tagged him even after his injury-filled and ultimately disappointing 2007 season. The fact that the Eagles weren’t willing to risk letting him leave when even when it appeared there would be few suitors for his services should tell you something. LJ simply makes the offense better.

 

A fully recovered McNabb, a healthy Smith looking to put up big numbers in a contract year, and a rising Brent Celek. All encouraging signs. Especially if Celek can become the tight end Matt Schobel should have been.