[vincesanity82]

There is no question that Trent Cole will be the starting right defensive end again, but there is a question as to who will line up on the opposite side for the Eagles. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson said the team needed more consistency at left defensive end, where Jevon Kearse and Juqua Thomas played last season. Kearse is likely to be released. Thomas, who had one sack in the final eight games after taking over for Kearse, could return to a reserve role. Cole said it would be good for the defense if the Eagles signed a top-of-the-line free agent, but he also endorsed Thomas as a starter. "You've got Juqua Thomas, and he's been producing every year," Cole said. "I think if you give him a fresh start and don't have him on special teams, I think he'll do a great, great job." -- Philadelphia Inquirer



Eagles' Cole pleased by late Pro Bowl nod | Philadelphia Inquirer | 01/25/2008

[Lefty Noob]

Makes sense. Kearse just isn't the same player any more. If you can plug in a cheaper, better player, do it.

[azrael492]

Kearse never seemed to be able to make it all the way back after all the injuries. Would this be an end to his career?

[njpsufan]

No, he will probably sign somewhere for a low salary and fill in as a back-up. He had one great year, turned it into a huge pay day and then got hurt and vanished. And people wonder why teams are reluctant to spend big on FA.... here is a textbook case of what can go wrong.