Maybe the Eagles really are willing to try another season with three capable QB’s in the nest.
The Eagles picked up Michael Vick’s $1.5 million option Sunday, sources told the Inquirer and AP.
By picking up Vick’s option the Eagles will continue to move forward with him, Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb on the roster.
But, just because they will be paying Vick now doesn’t mean they will be keeping him later. They could still deal Vick to another team where he would get his wish -- chance to start. St. Louis, Carolina and Buffalo seem the most likely trade partners.
If the Birds did keep Vick as a backup to either McNabb or Kolb they would need to pay him another $3.75 million this season. A pretty hefty fee for a backup even in an uncapped year.
The 29-year-old played only sparingly last season after missing two years because he was imprisoned. He completed six of 13 passes for 86 yards and one touchdown and ran for 95 yards and two scores.
The likeliest scenario is that the Birds would seek a trade. They don’t want to watch Vick go elsewhere without compensation -- especially after the organization stuck its neck out to bring Vick to Philly following his dogfighting conviction.
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the asking price for Vick could be at least a second round pick, according to NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora. But, the Birds could possibly settle for less and free themselves a possible three-headed QB controversy.
Avant Sticks Around:
Sure-handed wide receiver Jason Avant agreed to a five-year deal, according to PhiladelphiaEagles.com.
“Avant has developed into one of our most dependable and productive players on offense,” said head coach Andy Reid.
The fifth-year pro caught a career-high 41 balls for 587 yards and three touchdowns last season. In four years with Philly, Avant has 103 grabs for 1,299 yards and eight scores.
Avant was tendered as a second-round restricted free agent.
The 26-year-old means more to the team than just stats.
“He’s physical, he’s tough and he has the respect of all of his teammates," said Reid. "Jason plays the game of football the right way; he competes on a daily basis, whether it’s in the game or in practice."
"He is also what I consider a person with high character and he’s a guy that I like to think younger players have and will continue to learn from. Jason is a devoted man in the community and gives a great deal of time helping others."
