Mudd plans to return
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Mudd plans to return
Jeff McLane
Howard Mudd told the team before Sunday's game that he plans on returning as the Eagles offensive line coach, several players said.
"I didn't know the cat was out of the bag," Eagles tackle Todd Herremans said. "I like Howard. I like his methods. He's a good personality on the team. I'm excited for him to come back because I think we can just get better and better."
There had been some question among some Eagles players whether the 69-year-old Mudd would return for another season. He had retired before only to be lured back to the NFL by Andy Reid last February. Mudd agreeing to take the job then allowed Reid to name Juan Castillo, his then-o-line coach, as defensive coordinator.
Even though Mudd implemented changes to the the Eagles' blocking and altered the look of the line, he is credited for improving the unit this season. Eagles quarterbacks were sacked 32 times this season down from last season's 49. The Eagles also had one of the better running games among NFL teams as LeSean McCoy rushed for over 1,300 yards.
While Mudd plans on coming back, his future with the Eagles is likely tied to Reid. All signs, however, point to Reid returning for his 14th season. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie will meet with the media later this week to likely confirm his return.
As for Castillo, his future isn't as clear.
SB in 2012!— jjthree- Whether or not Andy comes back (he will) the birds should keep both line coaches, just sayin'...— DJ
- Great news! Now, how about Washburn?— Peter527
- Good news.— johnny eagle
- It doesn't matter. This team will never win the Super Bowl with current administration....especially with the talent evaluation department.— scootch
- Great news, glad to know he's coming back, hope the same applies to Washburn.— charmaine
- Of course that means Andy Reid is staying. Mudd wouldn't tell his players that he would return if he didn't already know that Reid will be back.— soulman386
- I think Washburn's status would depend on what they decide on Juan Castillo...A new defensive coordinator may have his own ideas for a defensive line coach.. They really need someone new to do the talent evaluating on the defensive side of the ball...— Cxgtr
- This is all on Lurie. He agreed to all changes amd player moves. It is obvious that Reid will be HIS GUY until he sells this team. Juan Castillo is a GREAT GUY but he was in way over his head this season. The defense lost 5 games in the 4th quarter for this team. As the Donald would say, "YOU'RE FIRED". Jackson will be back after he is Franchise Labeled and receives a 1 year arbitrated contract. Samuel is gone-ski. McCoy will receive a new contract and a FREE-AGENT LB will be signed. First 3 draft-picks will QB, LB, OL.— garcia7
- Well, we're off on the right foot anyway. Losing Mudd would be a step backwards. Should be an interesting week or so.— tpizza
- Yep - Let's get Washburn to commit.— borntosuffer
- The line got better as the season went on, but the plays where Vick got hurt were plays where he was in the pocket and defenders came in untouched. That's not on him, that's on the line. Still, I'm glad Mudd's coming back. These guys can only get better next year under his tutelage.— kingsolomonsmind
- Mike took his cerebral game to a different level because of Howard Mudd Scheme. The offensive line with another year in Mudd system could have early season success that could propel this team to the playoffs next year. Need the same to happen on the Defensive side of the ball we don't need a New Defensive scheme or Coordinator in back to back seasons. I think Andy stands by his guy.— trinieagle
