The Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (10-7)
New faces: S Malcolm Jenkins, RB Darren Sproles, QB Mark Sanchez, rookies LB Marcus Smith, WR Jordan Matthews and WR/KR Josh Huff, CB Nolan Carroll, S Chris Maragos.
Key losses: WR DeSean Jackson, QB Michael Vick, WR Jason Avant.
Strengths: RB, QB, OL, TE, LB.
Weaknesses: WR, DB.
What’s New: Jenkins gives Eagles proven leader in secondary, someone they’ve been missing since they let Brian Dawkins leave after 2008 season. Sproles should help replace some of Jackson’s touches, but Eagles no longer have deep threat to stretch field. Stadium now has “highest-definition” scoreboards in NFL.
Expectations: Eagles exceeded expectations, going worst to first in Chip Kelly’s first season. There hasn’t been this much excitement heading into season since Terrell Owens arrived in 2004 and teamed with Donovan McNabb to lead Eagles to NFC title. Offense might be Super Bowl-caliber, but defense isn’t there yet. Anything less than division title and playoff win won’t be considered success in Philly.
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