Trades and Trade Bait

It finally happened. The big move we were all anticipating. I’m sure the haters (you know who you are) are still whining because it didn’t involve Braylon or Boldin or Ocho Cinco. Get over it. I’ll take one of the best left tackles, if not the best, over a wide receiver any day. Especially, when you consider the Eagles had no stable answer to protect McNabb‘s blindside prior to last Friday. Could Andrews or Herremans have slid out to fill the position? I think so, but at what cost to the rest of the line?

The beauty of this deal is it solidifies an offensive line that was in a state of flux since February. It also makes the Birds even younger. When you think that only five projected starters (not counting kickers) will be age 30 or over on opening day, aren’t you excited about where this team is going? I haven’t felt this positive since the lead up to the 2004 season. It seems like all the pieces are falling into place.

And the draft is yet to come. What will they do in six days? I can’t wait to see. My suspicion is they aren’t finished wheeling and dealing. I’m in a trading mood, so let’s look at a few guys who could easily be moved this weekend.

Juqua Parker – It’s no secret that Parker has worn down the last two seasons. He plays great in September, but disappears for prolonged stretches as the temperature drops. He’ll give you a great highlight once in a while (like last season in San Francisco), but for the most part he’s limited. The coaches love Victor Abiamiri and want him to be the starting left end. Chris Clemons came on late last year and will see an increased role. Darren Howard still has gas left in the tank. However, the name that intrigues me most and leads me to believe Juqua might be dealt, is Bryan Smith. If he can become a contributor (I think he will), Parker is the odd man out.

Omar Gaither – Gaither lost his starting job to Akeem Jordan last season but hopes to regain it in 2009. Can he? Well, he’ll be given a chance, but I think he’s better suited to play in the middle. Stewart Bradley ain’t gonna budge from that spot. If the Eagles find a linebacker in the draft they feel is more of a fit to play or compete at WIL, Gaither will become expendable.

Reggie Brown – If you saw my post last week regarding Reggie, you know I’m not ready to give up on the guy. I still believe he can make plays in the offense, but Reid might feel differently. If he’s too far back in Andy’s doghouse, he could be shipped elsewhere. However, with Greg Lewis already gone, trading Reggie would leave them thin at receiver. But just like with Omar, if they draft a receiver more to their liking, Reggie might be handed his walking papers.

I love trade talk. So many scenarios to contemplate. The Eagles are always flexible on draft weekend, so it wouldn’t surprise me to see one of the above players house hunting in another zip code by next Monday.