Speculation was running rampant on Monday that Eagles tailback Brian Westbrook was on the verge of retirement thanks to an injured knee that has plagued him throughout his career. The rumor gained speed after being “reported” by Howard Eskin on NBC 10 on Sunday night.
Quite frankly, we’ve suggested in the past that Westbrook should consider retirement after a sub-par year and two concussions. Those things are likely the reason everyone jumped on the “Westbrook retirement” bandwagon.
Not so fast says Daily News “Eagletarian” Les Bowen. In a logical, convincing argument, Bowen says there are two issues with all of this recent speculation — Westbrook’s knee hasn’t gotten any worse the last few years and, more importantly, BWest himself hasn’t chimed in and likely won’t.
Will Brian Westbrook be back to continue mentoring Shady McCoy?
As Bowen points out, BWest36 isn’t exactly friendly with the media. He’s not rude or ignorant, but he’s also not very forthcoming in talking to the media. During the offseason, good luck pinning him down for an interview or finding out much of anything. (Your DailyPhiladelphian just sensed a challenge — get BWest lined up to talk with us.)
In addition, Bowen says a player as competitive as Westbrook won’t give up his career without a fight. And, even in a down year, you could still see the juices flowing through Westbrook. During the playoff loss to Dallas — a game in which he had one touch — he was on the sideline trying to instill urgency and confidence in the young guys. He wanted to win as a team whether or not he played.
While it’s obvious Westbrook’s best days are behind him much the way Marshall Faulk’s were in his final two seasons, he also can contribute to an NFL team and the Eagles. Leadership is not overrated one bit. Just look at the offensive line with Jon Runyan, and the defense without Brian Dawkins.
Having said that, leadership is not worth the $7.5 million Westbrook is scheduled to make next season. He clearly will not be in Philadelphia at that price next season.
However, if he’s willing to take a pay cut, he could be back. our guess is Reid would welcome BWest back in a reduced roll to continue his mentoring efforts among his youngsters and keep his replacement as the ultimate weapon — DeSean Jackson — grounded in his developing fame.
If he doesn’t accept a reduced salary, some team will add Westbrook. His career is not over. And the reports this past weekend probably give him more motivation than every to fight his way back.
