PCP Sports

by Michael DeLuca

Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Lineman Shawn Andrews: Shawn’s back, as in returning after missing the majority of the 08′ season.  Shawn’s back, as in the one that caused him to miss the 08′ season, is acting up again.

This year, the Eagles offensive line has been completely rebuilt. LT Tra Thomas has moved on to Jacksonville and the Eagles acquired Pro Bowl LT Jason Peters to take his place. Shawn Andrews, has been shifted to right tackle, replacing veteran Jon Runyan, His brother, Stacy Andrews, was brought in from the Cincinnati Bengals as a free agent and will play right guard.

The biggest question mark on the line heading into camp is undoubtedly Shawn Andrews. He spent all but the first two games of the 08′ season on his couch, rehabbing a back injury and dealing with clinical depression. Not only is he making his return to the team, but he’s doing it at a new position. And things have not started off well. On Thursday, his surgically repaired back “tightened up” after early morning conditioning and he was unable to take part in afternoon practices.

“I’ve been doing everything I was supposed to do,” Andrews said. “I left no stone unturned. I’m in just about the best shape of my life right now. It’s just another roadblock. Coach Reid trusts that I’ll do what I have to do to get back out there.” Aside from those comments, Andrews offered no estimate as to how much time he might miss. His brother, Stacy Andrews, said, “Shawn’s disappointed, but he’ll be OK, things come up now and then and you deal with them, but he’s a fighter, he’ll be back soon.” Left Guard Todd Herremans chimed in saying, “I don’t think it’s a big concern. Shawn’s upset about it. He wants to be out here. But we still have a lot of practices left. We still have four preseason games. You’d like to have everybody together, but I’m not worried.”