OTAs continue ...
The Philadelphia Inquirer Blog - Eagles
OTAs continue ...
Jeff McLane, Inquirer Staff Writer
Eagles rookies and an assortment of veterans gathered today for the start of another set of OTAs -- or Organized Team Activites for those who hate acronyms.
There were three more veterans at the NovaCare Complex than there were for last week's rookie minicamp. Running back Lorenzo Booker, cornerback Ellis Hobbs and defensive tackle Dan Klecko were in the house (practice was held inside because of a light rain). Of the 83 players on the current roster, 46 were in attendance, according to your humble reporter.
Booker is obviously trying to make an impression with rookie LeSean McCoy penciled in as the No. 2 tailback behind Brian Westbrook. The third-year pro, however, said that he's in camp early partly to help Shady. "Even though I'm not getting reps, I'm able to help LeSean," Booker said. "That's really what my role is, as well as Brian's, for the OTAs. It's not like we're out here trying to learn the offense. For us, installing the base package is like watching the paint dry."
Hobbs was acquired from the New England Patriots during the draft to either inspire or replace the unhappy Sheldon Brown -- depending on how you view the Eagles' mindset. Asked the last time he played football this early -- the suggestion being that he was able to skip voluntary workouts before -- the 26-year-old Hobbs said, "No, brother, I come from New England." Hobbs, who switched his number from 37 to 31, also returned some kicks, along with Quentin Demps and rookie Jeremy Maclin. The Eagles now have themselves a plethora of options when it comes to returning boots.
Klecko was told to come in early to get back to speed on playing tackle. Last season, the Temple product mostly played fullback. "Playing half the season at fulback last year I think they wanted to see me do some things at d-tackle," Klecko said. "Also just get used to moving again at d-tackle."
I am of the IDMA Camp - (I don't mind acronyms).— Lunchboy- How could he have any fewer carries than last season? I would like to see the Eagles cut this trash loose (Booker), and pick up a serviceable veteran running back.— Criz2020
- "Booker is obviously trying to make an impression with rookie LeSean McCoy penciled in as the No. 2 tailback behind Brian Westbrook. The third-year pro, however, said that he's in camp early partly to help Shady." Really? Help him do what Lorenzo? Not pick up blocks, not break tackles after contact, show him how to ride the pine? Can't wait till it's 53 man cut down day and bye bye Booker.— jt126
- Booker is history...no loss but does it show the spin managment put on his acquisition or their inept talent evaluation.....and Klecko is gone also unless their is an injury in camp.....Ellis hneeds to learn....JJ's defense is not that easy....— nuggett
- "...like watching paint dry"? Maybe he should pay attention a little more, it's pretty obvious he's not as good as he thinks he is.— IgglesFan79
- WGAS is my acronym ...who gives a s**t.— whatthe?
- I wonder why Klecko would make the team with so many other prospects?— KGKoons
- Does anybody think the Eagles will still pursue Anquan Boldin?— bossrjc
- Booker is getting himself in shape for his next team. Should be well rested since he was only active for about 2 games last season. Great pick up!— K333
Comment removed.- Booker and Klecko will not be on this team when the final roster is set. Klecko cost us nothing but Booker cost us a 4th round pick this past year. There were plenty of good players still on the board when that 4th rounder came around.— The Marco Islander
- I think Booker showed a lot of promise in last years camp, but he turned out to be just another fraud of a player. Last year he gave us nothing they should cut him.— CURTCASH30N
- Greg Lewis drops a punt, now we have 3 stud kick returners, two 4.3 speed guys to return punts... Yet nobody give Reid any credit.— fman727
- Dear Lorenzo Booker: Please stay away from Lesean McCoy. You've been here for 1 year and it obviously isn't working out. Good luck in the CFL and I wish you the best, but please don't teach the rookie anything. I'd rather him learn from a monkey on crack. Again, STAY AWAY FROM OUR ROOKIE! That is all. On a side note, I would like to see Klecko make the roster. He was productive as a DT in passing situations and he would do nothing but add more depth to the position. But if the Birds decide to only keep three DTs, he is expendable (correct me if I am worng, but I am pretty sure Patterson, Bunkley, Laws and Klecko are our only DTs),— jtizzle2133
- I spent most of last year screaming about how Andy screwed up in acquiring Lorenzo and especially for the price!(4th round pick) I'm sure that The Tuna still chuckles at that. No matter, when the final roster comes out, He won't be here....you can Booker it!— TBear
