New Bird Enters Flock

Kevin Curtis might not be a name too many Eagles fans were familiar with before last week. But Andy Reid and company are hoping that it’s a name everyone who bleeds green will not soon forget.
The Utah State graduate, who signed on the dotted line last Thursday down at the Nova Care Complex, comes to Philadelphia after four seasons with the St. Louis Rams. While backing up All-Pro wideouts Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce, Curtis was able to average 50 catches, 640 yards and 5 touchdowns the last two seasons.
The Eagles first plan was to bring back Donte Stallworth. That didn’t work when Stallworth signed a six year deal for $33 million with the New England Patriots. The Eagles signed Curtis at $32 million for six years. There was obviously something more than the difference of one million dollars going on here.
Earlier this month, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Stallworth is in the league’s substance abuse program. Joe Banner and his numbers crunchers figured that their money was better spent on a player who is 2 years older but comes without the injury history and off the field issues. The Patriots’ new deep threat has only played a full sixteen game season two times in his five seasons in the league.
Kevin Curtis is a burner who will give Donovan McNabb a down the field threat right away (that is if McNabb is ready for opening day). After playing mostly on the outside in college, Curtis was used primarily in the slot in St. Louis. This should give him experience as he will most likely be moving around the field a lot in Reid’s offensive sets. The Big Guy has always been hesitant to label a #1 wide receiver and this year will be no different.
Anyone looking for the Birds to make a big splash in free agency will be disappointed. Along with the acquisition of Curtis, Bethel Johnson was also brought in to provide some depth on offense, though his primary role seems destined to be on special teams. RB Correll Buckhalter, CB William James and DE Juqua Thomas have all re signed with the team. Don’t expect much more action until the NFL Draft in late April.