“I’m Getting Too Old For This”
That was Asante Samuel’s only words to reporters after he left practice with a hamstring injury on Tuesday.
Old is what Samuel’s act is getting to us, probably most fans, and we’d bet the coaching staff for the Eagles as well. He sat out a significant portion of early training camp with one of those “injuries” that veterans sometimes get when days are too hot and two-a-days sound pretty awful. Whether that’s affected his conditioning we can’t say.
But hamstring injuries are often the result of poor conditioning and poor stretching. There’s little sympathy for an injured player who wasn’t putting in all the work he could before the injury. That’s our perception of things with Samuel. And sure, he’s not going anywhere and the Birds sure have to cross their fingers this guy stays healthy, but at this point you’ve got to wonder whether it’s too early to start looking down the road for his replacement.
“he’s not going anywhere and the Birds sure have to cross their fingers this guy stays healthy, but at this point you’ve got to wonder whether it’s too early to start looking down the road for his replacement.”
What’s his contract status? I wasn’t following the Birds that intently when they signed him a few years ago.
Before the 2008 season he signed a 6 year $57 million ($20 mil guaranteed) contract, locking him up through 2014.
whoops make that 2013*
Are they likely to start the season with him on the field?
Maybe showcase him a little and seek a trade …
or perhaps release him if they can save face and money …
tthanks…
Oh there’s no doubt he’s still an important part of this defense and the Birds are better off with him playing up to his ability. He’ll be in the starting lineup every game barring injury.
This post was mostly about venting a bit of frustration over Samuel’s annoying habits (saying stupid things, tackling like my sister).
We had our fill of him in NE…
He was very good here for a few seasons, but developed an attitude.
Hopefully he will get his head together for the Eagles and play to his potential.
Enjoy the season and thanks again for listening Q
Ken