The Philadelphia Eagles may not be publicizing their quarterback competition like the New York Jets, but there is definitely one in place. Michael Vick has returned full healthy to compete with Nick Foles and newly drafted Matt Barkley for the starting position. While most assume Vick will be under center Week 1, head coach Chip Kelly is not quick to name who the official starter. As offseason workouts begin, Vick is taking all first-team snaps, something wide receiver Jeremy Maclin is comfortable with.
Vick returned to the Eagles with a one-year contract extension, making this a make-or-break season for the quarterback. He is the picture-perfect Kelly quarterback, but if he does not live up to expectations, Foles or Barkley will be biting at his ankles to start. As of now, the team has made it clear who sits on top.
"Right now, you've got Mike going with the 'ones' and Nick sprinkling in some reps here and there, so...," Maclin said.
While Maclin does not want to get caught up in the quarterback drama, he is in support of Vick. Maclin believes that "Michael Vick has proven himself as the guy."
Foles did show signs of success last season, stepping in for the injured Vick and at the beginning of this year, his future with the team seemed less clear. However, Kelly has come out in support of the backup, vowing to be able to work his offense around the pocket-passing quarterback if need be. The fact that Foles is getting some work with the first team is telling that Kelly will stick by his word.
While Kelly has said he intends on bringing his up-tempo offense to the NFL, he not as tied down to a specific scheme as everyone thinks. As of now, the Eagles have two mobile quarterback and two more traditional quarterbacks. With Barkley and Dennis Dixon also on the roster, Kelly is not pigeonholed into running one specific offense.
For now, Vick is the man to beat. He remains confident that the Eagles are still his team, despite being on borrowed time with his contract. However, he must watch his back because Kelly is proving he will not hesitate to put someone in his place.
