The Donovan Debate

There has been lots of talk about Donovan McNabb lately on a variety of topics. Let's settle all of it right now. Donovan wants a new deal, with two years remaining on his present deal which will pay him around $19 Million. There is speculation from fans and media alike on whether or not Donovan and the current version of the Eagles Super Bowl window is closed. Is Donovan a choker? Is he too sensitive? What do his parents think? Blah, blah, blah.

First, we'll tackle what his parents think of the situation. Wilma? Just kidding.

Ok, kidding aside, should the Birds give Donovan another contract? Simply, no. He will be earning 19 million during his remaining two years of his current deal, which ain't to bad. Does he want more money? Doubtful. Security is the more likely reason. Does he deserve a new deal? Yes and no. McNabb has been a good soldier, but he hasn't led the Birds to the promised land yet. His numbers are good yes, but when it's mattered most he has come up very small. You can argue whose fault all those NFC Championship game losses were and if you went back and looked at them in detail you probably couldn't come to the conclusion that it was all 5's fault. However, he is the Quarterback of an NFL team. A damn good one too,considered in some circles as a top 5 QB in the league. He's also in one of the largest sport markets, so pressure comes with not only the title but the territory as well. In the end will the Birds give him a new deal? Who knows, usually in this position the Eagles do not budge, but Donovan has been a company man so they may make an exception.

Has the Super Bowl window closed? NO. Donovan can still get it done. If the Eagles would have showed up in the first half of the NFC Championship game they would have been in the Super Bowl, with a good shot at winning it. An upgrade at TE, a big back, and some depth at tackle and perhaps safety and the Birds are a better team. Clearly able to compete in a NFC which no one clearly dominated this past season. The key will be off season moves and what the Eagles plan to do with those two 1st round picks.

I think I may be becoming tired of all this talk, maybe football season being over is a good thing for now. However, once those mini-camps start, and leading up to the draft the green blood will start flowing again.

Mike Santa Barbara