Samuel, who was injured during Saturday's morning session, sat out both of yesterday's practices. He is "day-to-day," according to Eagles' spokesman Derek Boyko.

Samuel underwent an MRI yesterday morning.

Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson downplayed the significance of Samuel's absence.

"He's staying in the meetings and from what I saw in this camp earlier, I saw him really learn the defense," Johnson said. "He's having a good camp. He's been in this league for a while. As long as he stays up and learns the defense, I think he's going to be all right."

Still no Andrews

His agent, Rich Moran, declined to comment yesterday.

Howard makes an impact

The Eagles' big off-season acquisition in 2006 has been pretty quiet his first two seasons. He started 16 games at defensive end in 2006, fading late in the year and finishing with five sacks. He was a backup last season and had just one sack.

But two days into training camp, Howard is making an impact, according to Johnson.

"He's in the best shape I've seen since he's been here," Johnson said. "His weight is down. He's healthy. I see a player who is in much better shape, who had a great off-season. He looks quick to me."

Working with the No. 2 defense, Howard made some plays in the morning session in a live scrimmage with the No. 1 offense.

"I see you, 9-0," linebacker Omar Gaither yelled from the sideline after Howard put a big rush on Donovan McNabb.

Thirty-somethings

Offensive tackles Jon Runyan and Tra Thomas, safety Brian Dawkins, and a few others are expected to be excused from this morning's workout, although they are likely to be in attendance.

Thomas will spend his off time working instead of using the snooze button on the alarm clock.

"You can [sleep in] if you want to," Thomas said. "I don't sleep in, anyway. I'm used to waking up at 5 a.m."

Thomas plans to do some cardiovascular work and has a massage planned. The over-30 players will participate in the afternoon practice beginning at 2:45 p.m.

When he was first asked about the 30-plus club, Runyan had one question.

"Can I get it retroactive for the last four years?" asked Runyan, who will be 35 in November. "I could have every practice off."