This month in Philadelphia Eagles history: 5 Birds who got tagged

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - DECEMBER 19: DeSean Jackson #10 of the Philadelphia Eagles returns a punt for the winning touchdown as time runs out defeating the New York Giants 38-31 during their game on December 19, 2010 at The New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

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PHILADELPHIA – SEPTEMBER 20: L.J. Smith #82 of the Philadelphia Eagles breaks away from Dontarrious Thomas #54 of the Minnesota Vikings to score a touchdown in the first period at Lincoln Financial Field on September 20, 2004 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

L.J. Smith, TE

Arguably the Eagles’ most questionable use of the franchise tag came in 2008 when Philadelphia applied the tag toward tight end, L.J. Smith.

During the 2007 season, Smith only appeared in ten games due to an injury. He finished with 22 receptions for 236 yards and one touchdown.

We kind of saw this move coming since Donovan McNabb and Philly’s front office wanted Smith to return for the 2009 season. It appeared Smith wanted to stay as well since he signed. The deal was worth $4.52 million.

Ultimately, Smith would lose the starting job with the emergence of Brent Celek. Smith finished the 2008 campaign with 37 receptions for 298 yards and three touchdowns.

After the tag expired, Smith played for the Baltimore Ravens during the 2009 season where he caught two passes in 12 games. Smith would call it a career following his one-year stint with the Ravens.

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