Eagles: Which Current Players Could Be All-Time Greats?

Earlier this week, Philadelphia Eagles fans on PhillyVoice.com voted legendary Eagles’ safety Brian Dawkins as the greatest living Eagle. The result was an absolute landslide, with Dawkins polling 60% more than second place Donovan McNabb, to be honest, the result is not surprising.

During his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Dawkins embodied the fighting spirit of Philadelphia. He left every ounce of energy on the field and was a true talisman for the Eagles’ defense throughout his time with the team. It will take some beating for an Eagle to beat Dawkins as the best, however, hopefully some Eagles in the not too distant future will.

I say hopefully, because it is likely that any “greater” Eagle will have led the team to a Super Bowl victory and a Broad Street parade. On the current roster, which current players have the potential to grow into legends on the scale of Brian Dawkins? Let’s take a look at a few candidates who could have the required attributes:

1. Jordan Matthews, WR

Matthews is entering his second season with the Philadelphia Eagles and plays a “glamour” position at wide receiver. Going into his second season, Matthews is likely to garner more receptions as one of the team’s premier wide outs following the departure of Jeremy Maclin. Key to Matthews’ position as a favorite with the fan base is his hard working attitude. Matthews doesn’t have many of the diva traits that may be associated with the wide receiver position. He fits the culture that Head Coach Chip Kelly wants in Philadelphia and has the potential to thrive within Kelly’s up tempo system. If he continues his growth, Matthews could end up being an Eagles star.

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2. Jason Kelce, C

Whilst a center is unlikely to garner the same attention as a safety like Dawkins, or a receiver like Matthews, Kelce definitely deserves a mention on this list. Kelce is an outspoken character and is becoming a leader in the locker room and on the field, where his loyalty to the Philadelphia Eagles and consistent performance will earn him more fans as his career progresses. By the end of his career, Kelce is likely to be a multiple Pro Bowler, who will earn his place as one of the best Eagles’ linemen in history.

3. Jason Peters, T

Long time Philadelphia Eagles tackle Jason Peters is already likely to head to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton. He has been one of the top tackles in football for many years, locking up a slot on the Philadelphia Eagles line and earning the praise and respect of teammates and opponents. Peters already has a strong fan base in Philadelphia, which may only increase once he is gone and the Eagles realize how much of a stud Peters has been throughout his career. Time will add gloss to Peters’ career; if he can finish it strongly with a Super Bowl run in the next two years, Peters will add further shine to his legend.

4. Kiko Alonso, LB

Buffalo fans spoke of the “Legend of Kiko Alonso.” The newly acquired linebacker has definitely got the potential to be a star player for the Eagles. In his rookie season with the Bills, Alonso won PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year. If the Philadelphia Eagles’ sports science team can get him back to full health, Alonso could become a legend at a key position at a time when the Eagles are rebuilding their defensive identity. There’s potential for a player like Alonso to become the figurehead of the Philadelphia Eagles team, in much the same way that Brian Dawkins was.

Now, let’s get one thing straight: I’m not saying that these players are currently as good as Dawkins was at his peak. I’m saying that these four players have the potential to develop a legend that will be remembered long after their time in midnight green.

Have I missed anyone? Have your say in the comments below!

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