Andy Reid updated the media on the state of his football team after Wednesday’s walk-through. The coach explained his decision to part ways with Jaiquawn Jarrett, the health of Jeremy Maclin and shared his thoughts on Ravens backer Ray Lewis.
Here’s what the coach had to say …
» Jeremy Maclin (hip pointer) was the only one he listed on the injury report. Maclin won’t practice today, but he is making progress. “He’s feeling better. I wouldn’t list him out today, but he’s not going to practice,” Reid said.
» On Tuesday, Reid added WR Mardy Gilyard to the 53-man roster and cut S Jaiquawn Jarrett. Reid said the second round pick out of Temple just wasn’t a good fit for the Eagles’ defensive scheme. “I think the style of defense will be best for him somewhere else, not with this team,” Reid said. “This gives him a chance to hook on with somebody and be a contributor, and make a living.”
» With Jarrett out, the Birds are down to four safeties (Starters Nate Allen and Kurt Coleman, along with Colt Anderson and newcomer David Sims). Reid said Anderson (ACL) is ready to play and will suit up Sunday. Sims, who came over in a trade from Cleveland, is still learning the defense.
» Reid wouldn’t commit to Dion Lewis being his No. 2 running back. Lewis is considered 100-percent and ready to go. “We’re still working through that,” Reid said on who is the backup RB.
» Reid also confirmed that offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg is the one who calls the plays during games. “He does a great job with that,” Reid said. “We have great communication during the game, so we keep things wide open.”
» When asked about Ravens LB Ray Lewis, Reid wasted no time calling him a Hall of Fame player. “Before he retires, if nobody else is putting him in the Hall of Fame, I am,” he said. “He’s a heck of player, a good man, and he’s good for the game.” Reid also put Ed Reed in Canton, adding jokingly that the safety spells his last name the wrong way.
» Reid re-iterated what he said Monday about last week’s win over Cleveland. He said there are three categories the Eagles need to improve on: penalties, turnovers, field position.
Stay tuned … we’ll have more after practice
