Philadelphia Eagles release Brian Westbrook
by JasonB on Feb 23, 2010 1:55 PM EST
in Philadelphia Eagles News
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PrintThe Eagles announced today they have released running back Brian Westbrook. Coach Andy Reid had this to say.
"Brian is one of the greatest Eagles of all time and he is even a better person and leader," said head coach Andy Reid. "In my mind, there has not been a more versatile running back that the NFL has seen. I had a conversation with Brian this morning to let him know. This is by far the most difficult part of this job. We wanted to make this move now in order to maximize Brian's chances of landing with another NFL team."
Sad, although not entirely unexpected news. Westbrook was scheduled to make over $7 million next season, which is obviously something no team would considering paying for the level of production he's likely capable of. It's an unfortunate reality of the NFL that Westbrook himself knows well. This is from an interview he did with Dan Rather in recent weeks, he was asked whether he thought he'd be with the team next year.
I’m not sure. That’s one of those things that really is up to them. I’m under contract another year, and I would love to be in Philadelphia. There’s no other team that I would love to play for more than the Philadelphia Eagles. But it’s a situation where in the NFL, younger, cheaper is better for teams. It’s one of those things. It’s part of the business. I experienced it when I was younger, and I experience a different aspect now. You have to try and find out, for the team, what’s better for them.
It's amazing to see both Brian Westbrook and LaDainian Tomlinson released within a day of one another, when just 2 or 3 seasons ago people were debating which of the two was the most dangerous all around back in the game... But that's the life of an NFL running back. Unlike a lot of positions, these guys don't generally have a slow decline.
There's no doubt that we've entered a new era of Eagles football. With Brian Dawkins last year and Brian Westbrook gone this year, two of the best players of the last generation of Eagles are gone. This leaves only Donovan McNabb & David Akers from the 2004 superbowl team(I think MIkell was a special teamer on that squad). We'll have more about Westbrook in the coming days.
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Well, there it is.
Just like Charger fans in SD, we knew it was coming but it’s still a sad, sad moment.
BWest might have been the very best RB the Eagles ever had. He helped to redefine the role of the receiving RB in the NFL and was the staple of our offense for several seasons.
Here’s to you, Brian. You’re a good man and a great player.
Best of luck, I think you deserve the HOF, and I’ll smile when you’re inducted into the Honor Roll.
Veritas Liberabit Te
Westy could actually fit in nicely with the Bolts
Good receiver, good at blitz pickup. Would actually be a real nice fit for him.
not necessarily. keeping LT would have required them paying more money then they would have liked to pay for what his role and production would be. also, LT said he didnt want to take a paycut. i bet they would have kept LT if he agreed to restructure his contract to make less money and probably be used less. but hes gone and and not coming back now. while i dont think the chargers would sign 36, i dont see anyone giving him big money and the chargers could theoretically sign him for much cheaper than keeping LT would have been.
by actionjackson10 on Feb 23, 2010 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
Holy Shit
I thought this would happen, but it hurts. Oh God it hurts. I remember watching that punt return in the Meadowlands in ’03 and thinking this kid would be special. Sigh. Sad day in Eagles land.
yeah man that seems like just yesterday
I just cant believe this time has come
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 2:03 PM EST up reply actions
wow
I guess I just didn’t really think it was going to happen.
In life, as in a football game, the principle to follow is: Hit the line hard.
-Theodore Roosevelt
Yeah
we’ve all talked about it at length. We’ve all kinda assumed that it might happen, but in my mind I always thought, in the end, they would restructure and be able to keep him.
Weird, sad day.
Saying that he was an unbelievable player and person is an understatement. One of my all-time favorites just behind Dawk. Damn, he was fun to watch.
A sad day for us all
What a great player Brian has been for us over the years. All the great plays. The Almost game winning TD against Tampa basically summed up his career for me. The way he was untouchable at time making guys miss and being a threat every time he touched the ball. You carried this team for the most part over your career and you will always be one of my favorite players. Thank you for all the great memories and good luck to you on what ever team you get signed to they will be getting a great player.
Let's get it Birds.
it hurts
but not nearly as bad as watchin bdawk go…imo
by footballfreak20 on Feb 23, 2010 2:03 PM EST reply actions
why
why does it hurt ,.. we lose an undersized rb in the downside of his career and save 7 million .. makes a ton of sense to me .. dawk can still play .. westbrook cant .. hes injury prone .. dawk is always healthy
by jack is better than asante on Feb 23, 2010 8:08 PM EST up reply actions
no
i really dont .. he isnt that good .. hes on his last leg ..and we save 7 million .. its a good thing
by jack is better than asante on Feb 23, 2010 9:14 PM EST up reply actions
everyone recognizes he declined. it doesn’t make it any less disappointing that one of the best players in franchise history is no longer with the team.
it’s like when jack ikegwanu got cut in preseason for you. think back to how that felt for you, and then imagine that your favorite player was actually good.
I'm glad Andy had the rocks to do it. It was the best for him and us.
I will always rock my 36 jersey, much love for the kid.
That said, I hope Andy has the rocks to do the other big moves needed this offseason.
In Kolb we trust
I don't think Westbrook gets a job anywhere. I would offer him an interim RB coach position with the team.
You can promote him to RB coach in a year or so.
In Kolb we trust
Wow. So Andy gets rid of Dawkins and Westbrook. Anybody still think he wouldn’t part ways with McNabb?
can we not turn this into a McNabb convo please
Were just got rid of one of the greatest players in our history here
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Right here
And I don’t care what happens I don’t want to here this stupid bull shit
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 2:28 PM EST up reply actions
wow...
I am just tired of hearing that Andy or the Eagles got rid of dawkins. Newsflash, the man was an unrestricted fa with the team! Therefore he was no longer under contract, they offered him a 2 year deal, he chose more money to play with Denver. Dawkins was not let go, he left. It sucks, I miss the guy, but can we please stop saying he was “let go.” His situation is so much different than westbrook’s.
by PhilsForever on Feb 23, 2010 2:34 PM EST up reply actions
You're absolutely right
I should have named all the members of the staff and organization that had something to do with letting Dawkins walk.
What I was alluding to was that people assume a level of sentimentality that is shared only by the fans and not the members of the front office. Players are like horses, when a horse can’t pull its own weight, you find another horse.
Does this mean we will have a new BGN member named
“Bye, Westbrook :( ” in you honor brother.
In Kolb we trust
the torch has been passed down.
i’m almost in tears. we’ll miss you westy! as great of a player he is, i would rather him retire then see him in another jersey.
by Bye, Westbrook :( on Feb 25, 2010 10:41 AM EST up reply actions
I shouldn't be shocked but...
my sentiments exactly nooooooooooooo!
For me it’s on par with Dawkins.
The road to victory!
Not that bad to me
With Westy I saw it coming but just wanted to avoid it till it happened. But that doesn’t make it bad.
With Dawkins I went into a depression for awhile.
excuse me?
I see no similarities lol
"Why do you step onto the field...? I don't believe in pressure. I don't believe in what may be said on the outside. Why do I step out onto the field? To Prove That I Am The Best!"
-Donovan McNabb
We all saw it coming, but...
…that doesn’t make it any less shocking. Was the right thing to do… but I’m really going to miss seeing him in the backfield on opening day.
Selfishly, I hope he retires. I really can’t imagine seeing him in another uniform (and that’s what I have a feeling he’ll end up doing)
A very sad day
I knew this time would come, but the news of Westbrook’s release still hits me like a blow to the chest. Brian was the reason I started watching football and has always been one of my favorite all-time players. If anyone deserves a spot in the Hall of Fame, it’s him. Best of luck to Westbrook wherever he lands. I’m sure he realizes how much he meant to the fans here. He’ll be missed.
by Bob_Q on Feb 23, 2010 2:07 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Disappointing...
Pretty sure I’m in the minority on this one, but I’m highly disappointed in the Eagles. He had one year left on his contract, and thus would have absolutely no effect on the salary cap whatsoever in an uncapped year.
Would the money he would have made this year be way overpaying him? Absolutely. Now, I realize it’s not my money to play with, but the Eagles are freaking LOADED. Westbrook, at the very least, would serve as an really good backup RB and situational player, especially as receiver out of the backfield and pass blocker on obvious passing downs. As a fan, I’m sorry, but I have to look at the front office and say that in this case they’re not doing everything they can to field the absolute best team within their power.
If I find out later that Westbrook looked for the release, I’ll relent. If the Eagles sign 2 more RB’s that are better than Westbrook, I’ll relent. But if this was solely just a move to shed his salary (when again, there’s no cap this year, and the one year left on his contract would not affect a new cap next year), then it’s totally unacceptable to me.
$7 million for a backup/situational RB is a lot of money, you have to admit. It’s money that can be better spent on players that will better help this team.
ESPN is speculating (in Rumor Central) that the Eagles might be making a move for LT. I can’t imagine that’s what’s going to happen here.
by wildcatlh on Feb 23, 2010 2:10 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The difference between BWest and LT tho is the injury factor.BWest is really injury prone. as far as i know LT hasnt had serious injury. If we can get LT for cheaper than what BWest was going to be paid for maybe a 1-2 year contract to play a complimenting role and mentoring role to Shady than i dont see why LT woulnt be a possibility
To me the Eagles are like that girlfriend that pisses u off, then u hate her, but the next morning you wake up and remember that thing u love so much about her
by XxBleedGreen5xX on Feb 23, 2010 2:39 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
LT is completely out of gas
He’s done for.
BWest was looking like he might be out of gas, but it wasn’t a certainty.
If you feel RB depth is needed, take a free agent (Leon Washington?) or draft somebody.
I’m not sure it is, with Shady, Weave, Eldra Buckley, and Mallet.
There’s no cap. The Eagles are worth $1.1 billion. If he had TWO years left on the contract, and he might mess up the cap next year, fine… release him. But with one year left on a contract in an uncapped year, I find this totally unacceptable.
But this is how it works. No team has 7 million dollars worth of sentiment.
by JasonB on Feb 23, 2010 2:13 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Agreed. Secondly, I think this is about more than the money. Can you afford to have a backup RB who probably won’t play special teams and may only give you a couple healthy games in a season?
That's exactly it.
How many games does Westy miss every year. I love the guy. When we had trouble, westbrook carried this team on his shoulders.
But you can’t have a guy that’s going to earn his type of money just sit on the bench and eat cap space. I like going into the year with the crew we have. Hell I would love to see them draft a youngin and split time between McCoy and Eldra.
With Buckley’s special teams play he has definitely earned a shot in the rotation.
I’m not saying the Eagles should keep him for sentimentality. What I’m saying is that if the 2 RB’s other than McCoy aren’t better players than Westbrook, it’s totally unacceptable.
It wouldn’t take a lot for the other RBs to be better than Westbrook was… It’s sad but true.
And honestly, what are the chances that his ankle, knee, and head hold up for even half of next season?
Better players than Westbrook looking at him as fans that have loved him for almost a decade? Or better players than Westbrook taking an objective look at his current ability and production (and injury history)?
Yes, looking objectively at Westbrook, I’m saying I like him as a really nice role player – The kind of guy that can sub in on obvious passing downs that the defense has to account for as a receiver, that you can also keep in the backfield to pass block. I’m not foolish enough to think he’s anywhere near what he once was. But in that role, he’s still a valuablecontributor, whereas any other 2nd or 3rd RB will likely struggle to see any playing time whatsoever.
But that would assume there’s an infinite pool of money from which to pay players. And there isn’t. Not even Dan Snyder is going to spend $7 million on a player out of sentiment.
In the end, this is a business. And as much as I hate to say it, we can replace Westbrook with a player that meets or exceeds his current value and his current ability for far less than $7 million.
“Sentiment” has nothing to do with my argument.
And as much as I hate to say it, we can replace Westbrook with a player that meets or exceeds his current value and his current ability
If they do, fine. If they don’t, they’re being cheap.
What if the money goes to signing a LB or DE, for example? Once again, you’re seeming to indicate that there’s an infinite pool of money without a cap — we can continue to pay Westy $7 million and sign other players we need without a problem. That’s not happening, nor should it.
I don't want to hear about the money
Any one that watched this team over the past 7 years knows what Westbrook meant to us and would hate to see him go and wouldn’t care what it would have cost to keep him here bottom line
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 2:38 PM EST up reply actions
I know
I just meant to any fan thats trying to justify it … just how can you really do it
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 8:37 PM EST up reply actions
No there isn’t.
The Eagles are worth about $1.1 billion per Forbes (probably less than that in reality). But businesses don’t spend based on the value of the business. They spend based on revenues. And there really is a finite pool of revenues.
I’m not the Eagles’ CFO, and I don’t know what their actual revenues are, but I know they’re LOOOADED. As I stated earlier, it’s easy for me to play with their money, but quite frankly, I’m uninterested in how many vacation homes the Eagles’ executives can build. As a fan, I’m only interested in whether or not they’re fielding the best team possible.
It's always easy to spend other peoples' money
Especially $7 million of it.
As JasonB pointed out… you’re not going to have much of a problem replacing an RB who totalled 274 yards and 1 TD last year, missed significant time due to injury, suffered two concussions, and has bad knees.
NFL Network last night was discussing Tomlinson, and the question was asked whether there’s ever been a 30+ year old RB who’s had declining production who’s ever improved much from that. Couldn’t think of any.
I can say all this if I divorce myself for 2 minutes from the fact that I’m a bleeding green Eagles fan who loves Brian Westbrook. As a fan, this is devastating to me. But if I really can separate myself from that and look at the facts… we’re going to be able to replace him without too much of an issue and without spending more than 20% of what we would’ve been paying Westy in 2010.
There is not. Not for any NFL team and not for any other business.
The Eagles may or may not be “worth” 1.1 billion but that is just Forbes’ guess what Lurie would get for selling the team. It is not the annual revenue coming in the door.
I realize either way it sounds like Monopoly money, and I get your argument that fans shouldn’t care about spending the owner’s pocket dry, but it’s just not realistic to expect any NFL front office to write blank checks.
If my mother put on a helmet and shoulder pads and a uniform that wasn't the same as the one I was wearing, I'd run over her if she was in my way. And I love my mother. - Bo Jackson
by EANX33 on Feb 23, 2010 2:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
We’ll find out soon enough, JB. He rushed for 4.5 yards per carry this year. I’m not ready to say he’s totally done. I’ll be watching to see who replaces him. If they find an upgrade, I’ll gladly change my tune. If not, they’re being cheap.
What if they sign a backup/complement to Shady for, say, $2 million, and use the money they would’ve spent on Westbrook to upgrade on D? They still being cheap?
Plus we do have one Mr. Leonard Weaver who will in all likelihood be returning as an RFA. There’s an increase in RB production right there, especially if, with Westbrook gone, he gets more reps in the backfield.
Sure, if they sign a guy like a Chester Taylor… I’m good. But if they have no plan in place and this is merely a move to shed salary, I’m pissed.
Why would you even suggest a pro football team has no plan in place?
Look, it might not be a good plan, but I’m certain there’s a plan. If I can plan for six variables in a fantasy draft, a full-time staff can formulate a plan.
Whether or not it pans out, we’ll have to see.
But I’m sure even the Raiders have a plan.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
OK, “no plan in place” is the wrong way to say it. Let’s substitute that sentence instead with “If they’re willing to sacrifice production on the field to shed salary, I’m pissed.”
Fair enough
It might be that I’m slightly less skeptical than you.
I think the Eagles operate on a bang-for-their-buck mentality. Rather than saying they’re cheap (which really isn’t the case because they usually end up around the top of the league in money spent on players due to all those cap exceptions they had), I would phrase it as the Eagles only spend for players’ future production.
In other words, they take the years they can underpay young players, then they give them their big signing bonus and extend them for what they think they’ll be worth. Sometimes it’s a great deal (Sheldon Brown) sometimes not so much (Reggie Brown).
But I don’t think the Eagles believe you win by not spending money on the players. I think they’ve proven they’re willing to spend on the players that meet their qualifications for future production, and those aren’t always the popular picks. But I have to imagine the Birds know the end-all is winning, and if you do that, every move you made is popular in the end.
I don’t look it it as pocketing $7 million. DeSean Jackson is about to sign an extension in the neighborhood of who knows how many million. Even if it just went to that, it would be hard to be mad since locking up DJax is going to pay more in the future than giving Westbrook $7 million this year.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
In other words ...
… I don’t think they sacrifice production at all to shed salary. I do believe they have an idea what certain players are worth and they don’t budge much from it.
But reallocating your assets to where you’ll get the most production for your money is the opposite of the kind of cheap you’re talking about.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
… I don’t think they sacrifice production at all to shed salary. I do believe they have an idea what certain players are worth and they don’t budge much from it.
But reallocating your assets to where you’ll get the most production for your money is the opposite of the kind of cheap you’re talking about.
Normally speaking, I agree 100%. You have to maximize your talent while playing under the rules of the salary cap. But under the current circumstances of an uncapped season, there’s no competitive downside to keeping him… just less profits.
The competitive downside of keeping him is that you’re spending a roster spot on him instead of a rookie or FA who could have more of an impact. I think you said you’d be OK with that, but the risk to the team is not only monetary.
Yeah basically
I think I talked myself into that view further down the page. The roster spots are finite, and it’s likely this had more to do with maximizing the production from that roster spot rather than the dollars, the more I think about it.
Would be kinda cool to see the Birds assemble the Bye, Dawk All-Stars. Westbrook, LT, Peppers, Atogwe … who else we need? Any LBs available? Dansby. Let’s get Kampman in case Peppers or Cole get hurt!
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Hey!
Haha, the Bye Dawk All-Stars? C’mon, man… I’m not saying the Eagles have to go crazy and sign every free agent available – quite the opposite. And I don’t want to be the “sign this guy and that guy” guy. The Westy situation is very unique in that he has had one year left on a contract that happens to be an uncapped year. Signing a bunch of free agents willy nilly could mess up the cap in future years.
Not if they're all 1-year deals!
Nah, I’m kidding. And I got carried away pretty much by the time I reached the ellipses, but I left it because it amused me.
I know that’s not techinically what you were suggesting.
You don’t think ‘Bye, Dawk All-Stars’ has a ring to it?
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Bye, Dawk, you know I love your take ...
… usually, but I don’t think you’re seeing this one clearly. It’s not like they’re gonna pocket the $7 million. They’re going to spend it, if not on a running back, then on extending all the young players we have on our roster playing for dirt cheap. Stewart Bradley and Akeem Jordan together make a shade over $1 million. DJax base salary was $355,000 …
It’s too easy too look at this as $7 million saved, and they only spend $1 million on a replacement RB, then they’re being cheap.
They’re going to spend the money. And, as much as it pains us to say it, they’re going to spend it on something much more valuable to the 2010 Eagles than Westbrook was going to be.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Haha...
Well… I prefaced my initial comment as “Pretty sure I’m in the minority on this one.”
I think I probably think Westbrook still has more to offer than the rest of the people here… and that’s fine.
No, not necessarily
I’m in the group — even if we’re a minority — that thinks he could still play and be effective. Especially in the role the Eagles had carved out for him, which was not necessarily to carry the load.
But again, is that worth the $7 million he was due?
I’d still like to have him. But we both have to know that, sentimentality aside, we can get better bang for our buck.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
But again, is that worth the $7 million he was due?
In an uncapped year, yes.
I’d still like to have him. But we both have to know that, sentimentality aside, we can get better bang for our buck.
Theoretically, since retaining Westbrook has no effect at all on next year’s cap, we could still sign whoever and keep Westbrook. We can have it all.
Am I a spoiled brat? No doubt about it. I’m a fan.
I see what you're saying ...
… that they didn’t have to let Westbrook go. They just could have bit the bullet on the $7 mill. You’re not saying he’s gonna produce at that level, you’re just saying you’d rather have him than not have him, no matter the cost.
I’m in the middle. I think I’d rather have him than not have him, but not for $7 million. Not with the risk of another concussion ending his career or one of his other various injuries keeping him from playing 16 games.
We both agree that if you get a Chester Taylor to play 16 games for much cheaper, then fine.
But I still don’t think it’s a wise move to pay $7 million for something just because you can.
Let’s say I usually get milk at the WaWa by my house for $2.99/gallon. But I took a different route home today and stop at 7-Eleven, where a gallon is a whopping $6.99. Do I buy it there because it’s payday and I have the money?
Because that’s what you’re suggesting they do, rather than pay $2.99 for a similar gallon of milk and spend the other $5 on something else.
And we can still have it all. In fact, we might be able to have it all-ier if that extra money goes toward, say, Julius Peppers.
Isn’t this the same as the McNabb vs. Kolb + trade haul theory?
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Er, $4
Ignore my math.
We could be focused on the wrong thing entirely, though.
Even in a season when money is not limited, roster spaces are. If they think Westbrook’s concussion risk was severe enough that it’s likely he’ll do more harm than good holding that roster space, then this also is not a bad move.
In my heart, I’d really like to see him stay. Good guy, experienced in the system … might even still have that burst on occasion, since he really didn’t take a beating early in his career with excessive carries.
But it’s not hard to imagine them finding some production that fills 1/3 of the running back role for 16 games. He might not be the player Westbrook is, but he could end up contributing more consistently.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
I agree with almost everything, except your analogy...
Let’s say I usually get milk at the WaWa by my house for $2.99/gallon. But I took a different route home today and stop at 7-Eleven, where a gallon is a whopping $6.99. Do I buy it there because it’s payday and I have the money?
Because that’s what you’re suggesting they do, rather than pay $2.99 for a similar gallon of milk and spend the other $5 on something else.
I’d say it like this…
Let’s say I’m your wife (no homo). You take the other route home and go to the 7-11 and find that the milk there is $6.99/gallon, which is obviously way overpaying for milk, when you know damn well that the going price for milk is $2.99/gallon, which you’re used to paying at the Wawa. Well, I’m your wife, and I want milk with my cereal in the morning, dammit. I have no problem if you go to the Wawa and buy milk of similar quality for $2.99, but if you come home with some discount Soy milk bullshit then I’m not going to bang you.
by JimmyK on Feb 23, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions 6 recs
I'm just happy ...
… I could play Abbott (or whichever one was the straight man) to Bye, Dawk’s Costello.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Haha, I hear ya. I think it was only like 60 carries or something.
All I’m saying is that he’s still likely going to be better than whoever our #2 RB would be otherwise this season. Maybe I’m crying to soon – Maybe they find someone better. I should probably give them the chance to do so. And maybe I just think Westbrook has more to offer than you do, which is also fine. But if they don’t replace him with someone better, I can’t help but be extremely pissed that they didn’t shell out the extra cash to field the absolute best team possible.
I do think it's too early
to say they’re not fielding the best team possible. Even if you take money out of the equation entirely, since in theory there is an endless supply in the uncapped season — we don’t know who the other RB will be, as you acknowledge.
I’m sure even if it’s a rookie, it won’t be hard to craft an argument that he’ll give us more than Westbrook might have if he suffered another concussion. :(
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
the wild card...
Maybe Mccoy plays well enough in his second year, and we don’t need to replace Westbrook. Won’t matter really what our no. 2 back does.
"Eagles fans are a passionate group who love their team," said McNabb, "if not the actual players. It's not like winning a Super Bowl before the first month of the season is the hardest thing they've ever asked of me. That'd be all those times they asked me to go kill myself."
by greenbean#twoOH on Feb 23, 2010 4:03 PM EST up reply actions
0.64% of $1.1Billion is nothing to sneeze at. I’m okay with the release because it frees up $7Million in cash that can be used to make Weaver and Avant happier players making market value dollars.
by andyreidswaistline on Feb 23, 2010 2:52 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
God help me for saying this... he would have hurt the team
If he’s back next season who is the starting RB?
Rotational? Then who plays special teams?
We need the #2 and #3 RB to contribute on special teams… and the Chargers were a great example. They kept giving the ball to LT last season even though he really didn’t have it anymore. I’m scared to say Westbrook would have looked odd sitting on the sidelines during big moments of a game… that would be as big, if not bigger distraction than just letting him go now.
Beginning Of The End Of An Era
I’m ready for Kolb to Celek connection but not sure if anyone can replace what Westy gave the Eagles O.
Favorite Westbrook Moment?
To honor the man.
It’s hard for me to choose because they are so many, but I’d have to say when he knelt at the Dallas 1 yard line back in ‘07. I remember going from “WTF?” to "Oh my God that’s brilliant!" in a matter of five seconds. Big Jon deserved some thanks on that one.
i think it was last year in the playoffs he was shut down all game till i believe the third quarter wen he took a screen 70 sum yards and blew the game open
by footballfreak20 on Feb 23, 2010 2:15 PM EST up reply actions
The Punt Return against the Giants
That’s when I recognized him as a potential star.
by phillyhoosfan on Feb 23, 2010 2:17 PM EST up reply actions 6 recs
that was his coming out party
"Leave Michael Alone!" - said like that Brittany Spears fan on youtube
by sports00fan00 on Feb 23, 2010 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
Agreed.
There was a thread on here last year by a Villanova guy asking about BWest’s best moment. Without exception, everyone said
1) Giants punt return
2) Falling at the 1 against Dallas
But also there was a Redskins game and a Tampa Bay game (lost with 62-yd) FG and hte Minnesota playoff game where he took short screens and made them into long TDs in the fourth quarter.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
I ran a search
and couldn’t find the thread. But if someone else can, post the link, it’s totally relevant to the situation.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Has to be the NFC East Title Game
Where he made the Giants defense look silly. First he raced past them for a 39 yard TD run and then took that short pass and out ran Antonio Pierce’s old slow ass. He was a monster in the playoffs for us that year.
My favorite
It was in 03 when we were playing against the Dolphins. He gets the ball on a draw play then runs up the middle. 3 defenders in front of him, one right there then one a little farther away and another even further, he jukes left, jukes right, jukes left again beating one defender with each of his jukes then goes in for the TD It was a great play and since that day I have not been able to find a video of it.
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
The big TD against the bucs where he made the whole defense look like girls
the punt return against the giants was more clutch but that play against the bucs was unreal individual effort.
My "t" and "y" buttons are messed up so don't bitch at me about misspelling, I'm just saying.
by RadioheadbeatlesEagles on Feb 23, 2010 3:45 PM EST up reply actions
the stiff arm against the niners
every one thought of him as glorified 3rd down back but he had surprising power when you least expected it
wow
idk what to think. but to me it was unexpected. i thought he would be with us for ever till he retired. wow. now its time for westbrook 1.5 (jahvid best) in the second round
With a healthier body and more of a consistant running attack by the head coach, B-West could’ve been an HOFer. Thanks for the memories Brian, you’ll always be an Eagle.
Chase Utley is so good that on one pitch he stole second, third and the shortstop's hat.
i don't think lack of touches hurt him
He was as good a reciever out of the backfield as he was a runner.
My "t" and "y" buttons are messed up so don't bitch at me about misspelling, I'm just saying.
by RadioheadbeatlesEagles on Feb 23, 2010 3:46 PM EST up reply actions
Amazing Player
I just hope he doesn’t end up in Washington…
Dallas.
If he goes to Dallas, I’m going to be pretty upset.
Let the beasting begin.
by TransplantedFan on Feb 23, 2010 2:43 PM EST up reply actions
dallas?
to play behind jones, barber, AND choice? i highly, highly, doubt that. im not even remotely concerned about him going to dallas.
by actionjackson10 on Feb 23, 2010 3:00 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t think they do it, but Jerry Jones is crazy.
Let the beasting begin.
by TransplantedFan on Feb 23, 2010 3:04 PM EST up reply actions
Westbrook wouldn’t take that job.
About 10 minutes ago, I was pondering my own existence. Then I decided that it didn't matter.
I Jones offered him 7 millions for the 3rd RB job, he may take it. It’s better than starting on a crappy team going nowhere for less than half of that. Unless Westbrook really want to start or really hates the Cowboys.
If Brian Westbrook became a Dallas Cowboy..
Then the end of the world would have come BEFORE 2012. There’s no way he becomes a Cowgirl.
by Bye, Westbrook :( on Feb 25, 2010 11:11 AM EST up reply actions
Most of us knew this was going to happen. Who would expect the Eagles to pay that much money for Westbrook? I certainly said that I didn’t think they would, considering their past moves.
That being said, I am very sad and curious about the future of our team. Shady did look better in some spots last year, but I still don’t know about him. I hope we can find someone to try and fill part of the role that Westy had here in the past.
If he wouldn’t have been so injury prone he might have ended up in Canton. But I think it is a lock that he has a spot in the ring of fame and maybe even get his number retired.
Cant say didnt see it coming
but truly a sad day for Eagles fans everywhere. B-West – Im sure I speak for everyone when I wish you the best in the rest of your endeavors. Sorry we couldnt win you the big one.
much love bwest
is at peace with the fact that i am a DICK.... i am good at it.... it is what i do.... it defines who i am.... will i be hated?? most definitely... do i care?? hell no...
"youve got enemies? good. that means you actully stood up for something" -Eminem
Forever a Philadelphian!
He will always be remembered and loved in Philly…It is quite possible that he and BDawk, no matter where they go, or what they do, will be the favorite sports players among any of the sports…Especially BWest going to ‘Nova…Couldn’t ask for it any better…Thanks for everything BWest!
The End of an Era
The two Brians are finally both gone now.
This is truly the end of an era.
ESPN speculation seems to think he’ll retire
So what now? Westbrook was due $7.25 million in 2010, but he suffered two concussions this past season; not a good sign for a player who also has a bum knee. It’s hard to see Westbrook catching on with another team, especially given the fact that he’d have to pass a physical. His other option is retirement. More to come.
Wow dude
The play I was talking about was in that highlight package thanks for posting this good luck man feel better
Let's get it Birds.
by homestar2281 on Feb 23, 2010 2:35 PM EST up reply actions
awwwww man this just made it hurt more :(
My "t" and "y" buttons are messed up so don't bitch at me about misspelling, I'm just saying.
by RadioheadbeatlesEagles on Feb 23, 2010 3:49 PM EST up reply actions
As good as McCoy might be
No one will ever be as good as Westbrook was. He was just a special player and the Eagles got extremely lucky to pick him up in the 3rd round of the 2002 draft.
It’s amazing what he did for this team this past decade.
R.I.P. Westy...
"Eagles fans are a passionate group who love their team," said McNabb, "if not the actual players. It's not like winning a Super Bowl before the first month of the season is the hardest thing they've ever asked of me. That'd be all those times they asked me to go kill myself."
by greenbean#twoOH on Feb 23, 2010 2:47 PM EST reply actions
his eagles career is...
really thought we were gonna get to see him break some of montgomery’s/carmichael’s records…
"Eagles fans are a passionate group who love their team," said McNabb, "if not the actual players. It's not like winning a Super Bowl before the first month of the season is the hardest thing they've ever asked of me. That'd be all those times they asked me to go kill myself."
by greenbean#twoOH on Feb 23, 2010 3:18 PM EST up reply actions
I hate to see it happen even though I think a lot of us saw it coming. We were lucky to have him on the Eagles in his prime.
If my mother put on a helmet and shoulder pads and a uniform that wasn't the same as the one I was wearing, I'd run over her if she was in my way. And I love my mother. - Bo Jackson
To me this is harder then seeing Dawk go. Westbrook was my all time favorite
by eaglesinmd on Feb 23, 2010 2:53 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
So are you all reading the release as
he refused to renegotiate/take a pay cut?
I would actually think, aside from retirement, we still have as good a chance as anybody of having him on our team. Unless I completely skimmed over where they said this is the end.
Maybe I’m just in denial.
I fully agree that $7 million was too much for him and his health history, even though you sometimes see exceptions made for special players.
And I hate to be that guy, because I think FA moves are usually more hype than delivery … but Tomlinson for a fraction of what we were about to pay Westbrook is a good move. His skill set is a fit for our offense, and he’s not needed to carry the load, just to supplement Weaver and McCoy.
Anyway, if this is it, sad we never won one with him.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
I think the team doctors don’t have any faith in him.
Let the beasting begin.
by TransplantedFan on Feb 23, 2010 3:01 PM EST up reply actions
I hate Andy Reid.
But I think Brian should retire. But I hate Andy Reid.
...But if he pulls the rug on his quarterback, Reid must do it knowing that he let McNabb down more than McNabb ever let him down.
Phil Sheridan--Philadelphia Inquirer
Just watched the video AGAIN.
Brian will be missed.
...But if he pulls the rug on his quarterback, Reid must do it knowing that he let McNabb down more than McNabb ever let him down.
Phil Sheridan--Philadelphia Inquirer
WOW
Not surprising, but it still feels wrong. He has given us so many special moments, from the 2003 punt return against the Giants to last years screen pass against the Vikings in the playoffs.
Reid- Best Coach in Eagles History
McNabb- Best QB in Eagles History
This is the year
YEAH
I was minutes from boarding a plane to Bagdad, stopped in the USO and bam McNabb to Westy screen……TOUCHDOWN I knew they were gonna win and jumped on the plane with a smile!
by SFCEAGFAN on Feb 24, 2010 12:43 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Cool story
Interesting that the Birds gave you a bit of joy as (I assume) you were headed for a not-joyous stint in Iraq
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
wow
i believe he deserved a chance to prove that he has something left. i don’t think he’s finished.
They just gave him the kiss of death
Forget what I said about maybe bringing him back for cheap.
Reid apparently said the move was made to “maximize his chance of landing with another team.”
Booo!
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Ah, damn it.
I was hoping for Westbrook to end his career in midnight green, or as least ending it differently than Marvin Harrison’s career.
RIP Jim Johnson, best ever.
Kurt Warner: HOF Class of 2015
He was hands down my favorite Eagle ever
Hardwork – Check
Never Complained – Check
Wanted the ball in big moments (and actually did something with it) – Check
Mentored the guy who was drafted to take his job – Check
I had convinced myself they would let him play out this year… so wrong
"Seriously… F off." JasonB to a Denver fan after Dawk left.
by DownHillBradley on Feb 23, 2010 3:38 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
can't he just become our RB coach?
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
and have dawk as secondary coach
HOPE SOOO
is at peace with the fact that i am a DICK.... i am good at it.... it is what i do.... it defines who i am.... will i be hated?? most definitely... do i care?? hell no...
"youve got enemies? good. that means you actully stood up for something" -Eminem
Tis a shame
But nonetheless what I expected.
Sheldon Brown and Shawn Andrews are also left from 2004, though Andrews spent the season on IR.
by mrb5091 on Feb 23, 2010 4:01 PM EST via mobile reply actions 1 recs
goodbye westbrook
thanks for all the memories. 2nd favorite eagle of all time (after dawk)
sorry we couldnt get you a ring
Call me naive
but is there ANY chance he comes back. Like what if no other team offers to pick him up, is there anyway we would resign him for a year at a much reduced contract?
I would just hate to see his career with the eagles end on this past season.
Official, unofficial rebuilding continues
Figured that there was at least a 50/50 chance that Westbrook was gone after the ‘Boys game and it became more apparent as the offseason dragged on that he likely wasn’t going to a be part of their future.
Just part of the official, unofficial rebuilding process that Reid and Banner have rather quietly (with the exception of Dawkins last year) been doing the last 2 offseasons. Ton of changeover in the starters including a number of key veterans that have been let go. Kind of makes the 11-5 record last year even that more impressive in retrospect because a rebuilding year usually means sub .500.
True
Although it can be argued, however unpopular this would be here, that we’ve had a quarterback the entire time, so we’ve never had to suffer through a true rebuilding year.
But I’m with you MG, the remake/overhaul/whatever you call it the past few years has been impressive. The team is more or less set to contend from now into the future.
Now if they don’t mess around and win one by 2017, I’ma be a little ticked. Then again, we might be able to get David Sills! (frequent BGNer reference alert)
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Cards NFC game
It is becoming more and more apparent in retrospect that the Cards game was really the last hurrah for the core of his team that went to the ’04 Super Bowl. Too bad they never won a Super Bowl.
This sucks ass
But what you gonna do . I have his gear that will be placed on a self next to dawks stuff.
I wonder who is next, I dont think its gonna be just westy.
I know this is a discussion of all things Westbrookian, but re-signing Weaver became a heck of a (I’m Andy Reid!) lot more important, no?
And not only that… We just added a major need in the draft and/or free agency, even if/when we sign Weaver.
That was my thought
that we can now add RB to our draft possibilities; and honestly, anything that takes away from the idea we’ll go hard after DE/S/LB makes me a little nervous.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Disappointing..
I really wanted him to keep him…I mean, when he did play this past season, he’d average, what, 4-5 yards a carry?
Ugh….fuck. I really am gonna miss him. Him, Dawk, Tra, and Runyan…these guys were more than just players..
And Westbrook will be a......
Patriot, Redskin, or Bengal.
My guess at least.
If you dont like Big Red, then F#%@ You!
-Ricky Bobby
by GreenInBaltimore on Feb 23, 2010 5:15 PM EST reply actions
Vikings were my guess too
The Childress and Peterson factors make it a fit.
I’d say Saints if they really were gonna drop Bush, but my guess is they’ll pay him the 8 million to keep the SB nucleus (minus Sharper) together.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
Next Question
Do the Eagles sign a veteran RB or do they continue to stay young at the position and use a middle-round draft pick on a RB (3rd-4th) they like.
I hope he hangs it up
Bad enough seeing Dawkins still flying around….would hate to see Westbrook do the same. They better nab a back with one of their higher picks…
I heart Dawkins
i will miss the guy, so exciting and explosive, simply amazing
ima cry, shed some man tears
Desean Jackson- Im Number 1, the real deal, The 1(0)ne to Watch.
Interview while at Cal.
Not surprised
But a sad day none the less. He’ll always be one of my favorites.
I'm a Cowgirls Cockroach Troll - Beware
wow
is this a joke .. this guy is washed up .. he is too small .. we never good in between the tackles .. and is a walking injury .. and u guys wanna spend 7 mil to keep him . i would of cut him if he was making 2 million .. he isnt worth that .. at this point any rb you draft is better than him .. shit i would dare say buckley > westbrook .. they made a smart decesion
by jack is better than asante on Feb 23, 2010 8:24 PM EST reply actions
Your a giant cocksucker
entitled to your opinion none the less but still a cocksucker.
"Life's a bitch, but God forbid the bitch divorce me" Nas
"Your penis fits me just perfectly" My Ex Girlfriend
"Go Fuck yourself San Diego." Ron Burgundy
by Talon Talent on Feb 23, 2010 9:33 PM EST up reply actions
sadly
most of what you say has a good degree of truth at this point. i don’t know if westbrook can stay healthy enough to help a team win anymore at this point let alone pay him $7M. Football is a brutal business. Even more so than the other major sports.
If ever we needed proof you say stuff for the attention
that post was it.
Still waiting for the Eagles to Bring It Home For Jerome
definately.
even IF all the things you said about westbrook is true, the point that he is too small does not mean anything. and we’ve not seen enough of buckley, but i highly, HIGHLY doubt he’s better than westbrook.
by Bye, Westbrook :( on Feb 25, 2010 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
Damn
I find myself looking over at my Westbrook poster on the wall in my room. It’s a pic of him just after his touchdown catch in the 2004 Superbowl…I’m really gonna miss watching him make plays in an Eagles uniform.
Some great memories that are coming to mind are the Giants punt return, the late 4th quarter catch and run touchdown against the Bucs a few years ago, his rushing TD against the Saints in the ‘06 playoff run, the screen play TD against the Vikes last season, and the intentional fall-down at Dallas…the list goes on and on. What a player. It’s hard to think of many other players that could make such great, game-changing plays on a consistent basis like BWest.
I’ll never forget Westbrook as a player for the Eagles, and I wish him the best of luck in the future. I’m really gonna miss him.
Westbrook will be missed
I understand the teams decison and expected his retirement or for him to restructure. It’s a damn shame neither of those happened. I’ma miss your playmaking ability Westbrook. I hope your future goes well and hopefully you assume some sort of position with the Eagles. Thank you for all you have done to make our team better.
"Life's a bitch, but God forbid the bitch divorce me" Nas
"Your penis fits me just perfectly" My Ex Girlfriend
"Go Fuck yourself San Diego." Ron Burgundy
This is definitely a moment
Where we should stop bickering about our different opinions about where the team should go and come together in reflection of a great great player. Brian Westbrook is what being an Eagles fan is all about. At the end of the day, we root for the Eagles because we love to watch them on Sunday, and for the past 6 years, he has certainly given us plently of memorable those. He was probably my favorite player (behind Mcnabb) and I worshipped him.
I will always be thankful to him for making the games so exciting to watch and I wish him all the best. Beyond that, he was a classy player and gave us everything he had. We’ll always love you Westbrook, thanks for everything. You made it so fun and easy to be an Eagles fan.
by thebirds77 on Feb 23, 2010 10:59 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Brain Westbrook was never used properly to his full potential because of andys crappy play calling, then we things seemed to be fixed there, he started his injury slump… just a shame, he could have been as great as a barry sanders or emmit smith, but never got 20+ carries a game consistently enough… Brain is a great eagle
Doubt it
RBs usually have a shelf-life of so many carries before they start to break down. Westbrook was below that but he was also smaller than a guy like Smith too.
I don’t think it is a total coincidence that Westbrook was heavily used in 2007 and started to breakdown the following year.
completely disagree
westbrook was most dynamic as a dual threat, and that’s how he was utilized. 20 carries a game isn’t as impt as getting 20 touches/looks a game.
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