Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Is Quintin Demps ready to start?

As reported in the Philadelphia Daily News, Quintin Demps in a recent interview has declared he his ready to fill the starting free safety position for the Eagles vacated by Brian Dawkins, who signed with Denver earlier this off season.

Demps was quoted as saying "I knew it was coming sooner or later. I didn't think it would be this soon, I know I'm [capable of being] a starter in this league. I'm not looking at it like I'm following him. I'm looking at it like I'm starting my own thing. I'm ready to go. I'm excited." The real question is, are the Eagles convinced he is ready to fill the huge void left by Dawkins' departure.

There is no doubt that Demps is a tremendous athlete. As a forth round pick in 2008, he quickly established himself as the Birds new kick return specialist. Last season his 1,314 return yards were second most in franchise history. Averaging over 25 yards a return, he solidified a major weakness in the Eagles' special teams and played a key role in helping to give the offense good starting field position when they needed it the most.

Whether he is ready to step in as a starter at safety is another matter. I think his ability and potential played a huge role in shaping the Eagle's half hearted approach to retaining Dawkins. As past history has showed, once they believe they already have a veteran free agent's position filled with a younger player, they are willing to let the vet go.

My guess is that Demps gets the starting nod come opening day this September, but that doesn't mean he is ready to replace Brian Dawkins. That simply cannot be done.

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