Eagles Return To Work At The Linc
By Ed Benkin
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- After enjoying an off-day on Friday, the Eagles went back to work at Lincoln Financial Field.
The team held its fourth open practice at its home stadium, and about 20,000 fans were in attendance. The team's third preseason game is still a week away, with the Eagles facing Jacksonville on August 24th. Coach Chip Kelly said he has not set his rotation for the game but will have a better idea during the players' day off on Monday.
"Our players are off," said Kelly. "We will be in and kind of put together our thoughts on how we are going to attack not only the rest of the week, but kind of try to simulate what a game week would be like for us, because we are going to play on Saturday. Those decisions in terms of rotations and things like that will be made Monday."
Kelly and the Eagles got a big boost at practice as Jason Peters returned to action. The left tackle has been battling a slight hamstring injury but could be ready to play next Saturday. Quarterback Michael Vick says Peters is a difference maker on the field.
"He's a dynamite player," Vick said. "The left side is well taken care of. Even though guys have been doing a great job of holding it down, J.P. is a different animal."
A healthier offensive line will be critical to the Eagles' success this season. Center Jason Kelce is back after suffering a knee injury last year, and Kelly said Kelce is one of the most valuable members of the offensive line.
"He's got a great grasp of what we are trying to do," said Kelly. "He's a real student of the game. He's in control of our line calls in terms of setting the blocking scheme based on what we called and what we lined up in, and you can tell the difference."
Vick has been impressive in training camp and appears to have the lead over Nick Foles in the battle for the starting quarterback job. However, Vick says it has been a team effort in the preseason.
"It's more a credit to the offense," Vick said. "It's about the plays coming in and how they are being called and what we do. I'm just thankful I'm a part of this."
The Eagles return to the Novacare Complex for tomorrow's practice before their off-day on Monday.
