A Power Running Game in Philly?

So, the Eagles now have a legit fullback. What does this mean? Well, the last time Reid and Co. added a free-agent fullback was 2003. That season they brought Jon Ritchie in to be a mauling lead blocker who could catch. Now, Leonard Weaver is not in the class of Ritchie as a blocker, but the Birds made it clear he will be asked to help pave the way in the running game.

Ritchie’s impact in 2003 was significant. That season McNabb was bothered by a bad thumb which affected his throwing grip. In addition, the starting receivers were “Trash” and “Stinkston.” They combined for a whopping 3 touchdown receptions and neither eclipsed 600 yards. For all of you who think the current crop of pass catchers blow, I give you 2003 as evidence that things could be MUCH worse.

In order to compete, Reid unleashed the “three-headed monster” of Buckhalter, Staley and Westbrook. With Ritchie leading the way, the Eagles finished #9 in rushing, averaged 4.8 ypc, and scored the second most rushing TDs. They would finish 12-4 and lose in the NFC Championship to the Panthers. However, it was a commitment to the run game that propelled them to their third consecutive title game appearance.

Thus far in free-agency the Birds have signed a 345 lb right tackle and a 245 lb fullback on offense. They are expected to add a running back, offensive lineman and tight end in the April draft. This points toward a possible shift to a more run oriented philosophy. Westbrook, Weaver and a rookie runner could make for deadly trio. Throw in a road-grading lineman and a physical tight end, and you have the makings of power running game.

I realize this sounds like pure insanity. No, I’m not off my medications. Perhaps this is merely wishful thinking on my part. We all know Reid has had a long love affair with the forward pass. Would he really put aside his stubbornness and alter his pass first, pass second, pass always scheme? Maybe this is part of the “change” the Front Office has been speaking of since the 2008 season ended? It makes too much sense, doesn’t it?

The draft will likely clear up all my guesswork. Maybe they’ll select a cornerback and a linebacker in the first round and crush my dreams and theories. Anything is possible once they convene inside their war room. That being said, the groundwork for a renewed ground game has been laid. Time will tell whether or not this comes to fruition.