Ellis Hobbs Never Disappoints
Whether or not Ellis Hobbs lasts in Philly beyond this season makes no difference to me. If he works out, great. If not, no biggie. If you cornered me with a sharp pointy stick, I’d say I think he’ll be here in 2010. Anyone who doesn’t believe he can be a quality starter never watched him in New England. He can play.
One thing is certain. Ellis has a way with words. He’s only been an Eagle for two months and he’s compiled a collection of memorable quotes. Well, he had another doozy on the Colin Cowherd radio show the other day.
Cowherd queried Hobbs regarding the biggest misconception about the Patriots. Ellis responded with this:
“That we’re all a bunch of jerks, starting with the head man, Bill,” said Hobbs. “Bill will be the first to tell you he comes off as a jerk, intentionally. Because, I think, what he tries to manifest throughout the players is that we’re here for football.”
I’ve always liked the word “manifest.” Ellis continued:
“There’s so much going on – the circus in the media and all that stuff, and the hoopla in the NFL these days – it’s hard to keep the focus on the game. I think that’s why they have everything so distinguished, set apart from everything, as far as the organization away from the players. Where there’s only access for the players on the lower level — the players and the coaches. And I think by him doing that, it kind of sets the tone, and let’s you know that we’re here to play football and win games.”
Reid has created a similar atmosphere, but Belichick’s rings distinguish him from every other coach in the league.
At any rate, Hobbs nailed how difficult it is for an NFL franchise to successfully compartmentalize the business side and the football side. I like Ellis. He’s honest. I have a feeling he’ll be a popular get for the Birds beat writers this summer and fall.
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