TAKEO SPIKES IS AN E-A-G-L-E!

Despite the fact that Eagles management has claimed that there’s nothing wrong with the linebacking corps, it appears they were exploring their options and landed two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Takeo Spikes for defensive tackle Darwin Walker and a conditional late-round pick in next year’s draft.

Ignoring for a moment the obvious continuing ineptitude of the Bills’ front office, this is a great move for the Eagles. Being a fan, I’ve long complained that the linebacking corps has been the weak link of the defense. The front office still believed in Mark Simoneau  long after fans had given up on him for being too small to stop the run and too slow to be effective in pass coverage. Dhani Jones was kind of a sexy acquisition after the departure of Carlos Emmons to the Giants but as it turns out he dresses much better than he plays. Matt McCoy is a tough player but maybe more of the Larry Izzo mold and is not a starter in this league. The Eagles drafted Chris Gocong last year but I remain skeptical that he can make the jump from college defensive end to NFL linebacker. There are players who have made that jump but the Eagles need to keep in mind that not every player has the ability of Demarcus Ware.

Finally a deal that makes sense. As a fan, I’m worried that they passed on re-upping Donté Stallworth (who may be headed for trouble) to give Kevin Curtis, a lifetime slot receiver, number 1 or number 2 receiver money but this Spikes deal makes all the sense in the world.

If Broderick Bunkley can wake up from his coma and Mike Patterson continues to come on, in addition to the signing of Montae Reagor, Walker becomes obviously expendable. Kelly Holcombe is also a proven backup who can come on if A.J. Feely comes out and stinks on ice.

As an Eagles fan, I applaud this move. We got a great player and didn’t give up our first round pick (which we should use on Reggie Nelson… I’m just saying.. or Aaron Ross). As the friend of a Bills fan, I feel bad… and I’m over it.

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