It’s been a tough offseason so far for veterans on the Philadelphia Eagles. Prior to the free agency period, they announced the expected, yet stunning release of RB Brian Westbrook. They also cut loose LB Will Witherspoon and offensive lineman Shawn Andrews–who only a year ago were among the better members of their respective teams–and today, the organization confirmed yet another string of sudden releases. 10-year defensive lineman Darren Howard and 31-year-old WR Kevin Curtis were ridden of, and while their contract terminations came as somewhat of an anticipated decision, they also add some tension/action to what has lately become a thrilling off time away from games.

Howard, 33 years of age, spent 4 seasons with the Birds, and both failed in his role with the team, yet was one of the most reliable at what he did. While that doesn’t seem to make sense, he was brought in prior to the 2006 campaign with the intentions of stepping into the starting lineup and dominating. He lacked consistency and ultimately stumbled in his role as a leading lineman. However, his production as a rotational DE and occasional DT improved as his tenure with Philadelphia progressed, and he was regarded by the staff and fans as one of the top reserve defenders on the roster. His best season in midnight green came in ‘08, in which he notched 10 sacks and an interception (impressive, seeing that he played no games that year as a starter). This past season, he recorded 6.5 sacks and 21 solo tackles, and was simply released this offseason because of a high salary and an obviously aging body.

As for Curtis, the former Rams’ receiver began his stint with the Eagles with clear success. Injuries and failure to get on the field for a consistent amount of playing time as of late assisted the fall of his career as a Bird. Signed in 2007 to a 6-year contract, he exploded in his first season in Philadelphia. Making 77 catches, he finished the year with an astounding 1,110 yards and 6 scores. In addition, he climbed among the franchise record books by performing amazingly in Week 3 vs. the Lions (in which he caught 11 passes for 221 yards and 3 touchdowns). The following year, he was limited to 9 games and managed to produce only in the later part of the season. A surgery for a sports hernia injury and a sprained knee left him questionable heading into 2009, and he wound up appearing in all but 3 contests. In addition to his recent health struggles, Curtis was also among the players due to receive large payments, hence his release.

“Darren Howard has been one of our most productive and versatile members of our defense in the last couple of years. He is nothing but a solid player, leader and person on and off the field…Kevin is one of the classiest players I have ever been around. He’s the type of player and person we like to build our team with. We just feel good about the young corps of receivers we have on our team at this point.” –head coach Andy Reid

No related posts.