Training Camp Update

The 2009 Eagles training camp is officially underway. Rookies and select veterans including Donovan McNabb reported to Lehigh on Sunday and the rest of the veterans reported on Wednesday. Regular two a day workouts begin on Friday and will continue until camp breaks on August 12th,

Here is a look at some of the early story lines from Bethlehem

Long time defensive coordinator Jim Johnson lost his battle with cancer and passed away at the age of 68. This year's camp has definitely opened on a somber note after the loss of one of the greatest coordinators in Eagles history. Since being diagnosed with a tumor on his spine back in January and officially taking a leave of absence in May, everyone knew it would be an uphill battle for him to return to the team on a full time basis. The finality of his passing makes you fully appreciate everything he contributed to this team over the past ten years. He will surely be missed.

First round pick Jeremy Maclin remains unsigned and a no show at camp. The situation with Maclin is completely expected given the current pay structure in the NFL for first round picks. Until the top first round picks sign a contract, the dollar value for the middle first rounders has yet to be set. This will be a wait and see game that could drag on for a couple of weeks. Unfortunately for both parties, it is doubtful that Maclin will be able to contribute to much to the offense in the early part of the regular season.

The battle for who will replace Brian Dawkins as the starting free safety is under way. The top two contenders are second year man Quentin Demps and six year vet Sean Jones who was signed this past off season as an unrestricted free agent. Right now Demps appears to have the edge as he is more familiar with the Eagles system. This situation will still be one to watch over the next few weeks to see who actually gets the start in week one against Carolina.