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Redskins' Norman takes a shot at Sam Bradford

What's the NFC East without some drama, and Washington cornerback Josh Norman stirred the pot about Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford in an ESPN the Magazine article. Norman suggested Bradford is not a top 20 quarterback, and said he "can't wait to play him twice a year."

What's the NFC East without some drama, and Washington cornerback Josh Norman stirred the pot about Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford in an ESPN the Magazine article. Norman suggested Bradford is not a top 20 quarterback, and said he "can't wait to play him twice a year."

Bradford did not comment Wednesday, but the reaction from some of his teammates was mostly to disregard Norman's opinion.

"I really don't care what Josh Norman says," center Jason Kelce said. "Our bottom line is we have to beat Washington when we face them."

"The guy made a lot of comments in the story about a lot of people," said tight end Zach Ertz, who also pledged support for his quarterback to reporters. "He's in the right division for that."

The Eagles play the Redskins on Oct. 16 and Dec. 11. Ertz said the story would die down until it's likely brought up before the first meeting. Lane Johnson, who has a suspension looming, likely won't get to play Norman and the Redskins until the second game.

"I can't defend him the first game, the way it's looking," Johnson said. "But second game, I can probably go out there and do something about it. That's what rival teams do - they like to talk some trash. You have to go out on the field and back it up. You can say all you want, but there's going to be a time and place to show what you're talking."

Coach Doug Pederson did not want to comment on Norman. He called Bradford a "great quarterback" who is "doing everything we've asked him to do." He has not discussed the comments with Bradford, but he said he's sure Bradford will see them.

"He's a great player, and Washington's got a great player," Pederson said, "and we're just happy to play him twice a year and just see what happens."

More playing time

Bradford and the starting units will play into the third quarter Saturday against the Indianapolis Colts. That will be the longest they've played in the preseason.

"I want to see the starters come out of the dressing room," Pederson said. "I talked to them about three full quarters and want them to feel that intensity coming out of the dressing room [in the] second half. So, at least a series - maybe two - in the third quarter depending how the game is going."

Wentz won't play

The Eagles will play without quarterback Carson Wentz (ribs), wide receiver Jordan Matthews (knee), offensive lineman Isaac Seumalo (pectoral), defensive tackle Mike Martin (knee), defensive end Alex McCalister (calf), cornerback Aaron Grymes (shoulder), and linebacker Joe Walker (knee).

Wentz will travel with the team. With only two practices next week, time is limited for Wentz to return to play in the preseason finale on Sept. 1. Pederson said that is still the goal.

"We'll evaluate him through the weekend," Pederson said. The team will take him on the trip "and work him out a little bit when we get to Indy, and then again next Monday and Tuesday. We've got to [have] at least a day's work with him in order for him to go in the game next Thursday."

Johnson waits

Johnson still has not heard from the league about his looming suspension. He said he would stop taking supplements. . . .The Eagles released wide receiver Hunter Sharp with an injury settlement. He did not played in the preseason because of a hamstring injury.