Feeling the National Love

As for the team's personnel moves, franchising tight end L.J. Smith alleviated one potential need, and landing ex-Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel -- the top player available in free agency -- gives the Eagles secondary a proven playmaker with a winning pedigree. He can't do much of anything alone, but if the Eagles can generate more of a pass rush than they did in 2007, Samuel will be part of the winning puzzle.

Philly's pass rush got a boost with the signing of ex-Raider defensive end Chris Clemons, who was one of the more underrated talents in free agency. I also like the release of underachieving defensive end Jevon Kearse -- addition by subtraction -- and veteran linebacker Takeo Spikes, who is the kiss of death for any team's playoff hopes (10 years in the NFL without a postseason trip). The Eagles young linebacking corps of Omar Gaither, Stewart Bradley and Chris Gocong is now set.

I think I love the signing of Dan Klecko to be a fullback in Philadelphia. He's got the perfect temperament and physicality for it. I like how Andy Reid's thinking on this one. It's not the biggest move of the year, but if it helps keep the quarterback -- Donovan McNabb or Kevin Kolb -- cleaner than they were last year, it's a good piece of a 53-piece puzzle to help build the best team you can build.