[Bette]

Making the playoffs became so routine for the Eagles that anything less than a Super Bowl victory was considered a failure in Philadelphia.Consider this season a disaster.
Their coach endured a family crisis that had some calling for his resignation. Their franchise quarterback struggled to the point critics wanted him benched for a rookie. A few star players on defence showed definite signs of decline.
Break 'em up and start fresh? Not so fast.
A season-ending three-game winning streak, including impressive victories on the road against conference-leading Dallas and New Orleans, left hope for the future.
Finally healthy, Donovan McNabb regained his Pro Bowl form and the rest of the offence came together. Some younger players on defence stepped up their play, giving the coaching staff more options going into the off-season.
So, the critical question heading into the off-season for the Eagles is this: Do they need to retool or rebuild
he offence needs a playmaking receiver and a tight end. The defence needs another pass rusher and help in the secondary.
One position the Eagles don't have to upgrade is quarterback. Though it appeared to some during the season that McNabb's days in Philly were numbered, management made it clear the five-time Pro Bowl pick will return for his 10th year. That means the Kevin Kolb Era wouldn't begin until 2009 at the earliest.
On the other side, defensive end Trent Cole had a breakout year. The third-year pro finished tied for sixth in the NFL with 12 1/2 sacks.
The linebackers also played well. But the secondary took a step backward. Perennial Pro Bowl safety Brian Dawkins clearly is on the downside of his career and cornerback Lito Sheppard didn't play to his Pro Bowl level.
Most of the starters are signed through next season, so free agency shouldn't hurt the Eagles. Tight end L.J. Smith may not be re-signed after an injury-plagued season and defensive end Jevon Kearse almost certainly will be released.
Reid isn't going anywhere. But ownership supports Reid and he never considered stepping down from his job.



The Canadian Press: Strong finish leaves Philadelphia Eagles optimistic about future

[azrael492]

If they are going to make a run, they need to do it next year. McNabb, healthy now, will not remain that way. He is an injury waiting to happen the last few seasons. They have a RB that is entirely overused, and no receiving corp to speak of. They need to get a few key players then they will compete again.