Reid on linebackers: 'They're all going to play'
The Philadelphia Inquirer Blog - Eagles
Reid on linebackers: 'They're all going to play'
Zach Berman, Inquirer Staff Writer
The Eagles have shuffled different linebackers in different packages, and coach Andy Reid said Friday that each of the Eagles' linebackers will have a role on defense in Sunday's opener against the Cleveland Browns.
“They’re all going to play," Reid said. "They all have a role in one phase or another in the game.”
Reid said every player knows their role. He added "they're all interchangeable," although that's odd to say when the Eagles traded for DeMeco Ryans to fortify the defense.
“I’ve been very happy with DeMeco," Reid said. "I’m giving everyone an opportunity.”
At beginning of the preseason, Ryans was in every package. When Reid was asked about this, he referenced injuries during th preseason.
“He’s in the same situation,” Reid said.
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Don't be surprised to see Bryce Brown get snaps at running back. When Reid was asked if Brown or Dion Lewis is the No. 2 running back, he said, "we'll see." Brown said he's been taking more reps this week than he has at any point, so the rookie seventh-round pick is likely in the rotation.
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The only players who have been declared out are are Colt Anderson and Riley Cooper. Fletcher Cox, who was limited on Thursday, is ready to go for Sunday.
Both Lewis and Brown should play. Lewis can sub in place of McCoy.
Brown can be on the field at the same time as McCoy. If you're a defense, try and consider what you're going to do as Mike Vick takes a step to his right, fakes a pitch to McCoy and then passes to Brown in the left flat. You also have to cover Jackson, Maclin, and Celek.
Just off this kind of play, Vick can pitch to McCoy the next time. And fake to both backs and throw to Celek down the seam another time. No one is going to want to try and scheme for Brown, McCoy, Jackson, Maclin, and Vick at the same time. That's maybe the most speed on the field in NFL history. It must be used to drive defenses crazy. Spread them out, and then watch McCoy or Brown bust a run up the middle for thirty yards.— armchairGM- All linebackers will play means we have only one linebacker on the roster... Kendricks. Ugh Problems at Linebacker and Safety continue. I am hoping for ten straight runs to start the game... Vick needs to get rid of the jitters and the monkey on his back of holding on to the ball. The worst thing Reid and Mad Marty can do is call for throwing deep and having Vick deal with the internal clock and the fear that Dunlap will be boat raced by Sheard.— 1st and goal
- Bryce Brown would be a nice change up...johnnyu GO BIRDS !!!!— john ullman
- brown has looked good , but i want to see polk ..this kid packs a wallop and has a little wiggle..— psmitty73
- When I heard about Brown's college career I didn't think he had a shot. Then I saw him at training camp. He might end up being really special. I really like Polk, too. Like psmitty said, he packs a punch. He's also a relatively experienced pass blocker. Nothing against Lewis, but I'd put him at the bottom of the pecking order.— thejimmylegs
- Bryce Brown played in the same backfield as Montario Hardesty, the Browns RB, during his short stop at the University of Tennessee. Maybe they can renew acquaintances on Sunday in Cleveland.— Doug in VA
- I really hope reid doesnt over complicate this running attack. Bryce brown clearly is the better athlete and should get more touches. Really cant believe football is finally back. My favorite time of the year.— Yes_General
- On to the Big Bowl. Go Birds! The Eagles are better than folks realize. May lose three games ... at the most!— Slydangity
- Wow!! I'm the ninth to comment and no Negadelphians! Fly Eagles Fly! 13-3 and 27-14 over the Texans--Finally......— IdahoMoose
