Michael Vick will not be supplanted from his starting job as Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, although it was a serious consideration, according to multiple reports.
Coach Andy Reid makes the decision on that position, and he likely will stay with the four-time Pro Bowler over rookie Nick Foles, who is unproven.
The Eagles are 3-4, and Vick has been part of the Philly problems, which are not limited to Vick.
Reid didn’t endorse Vick after Sunday’s 30-17 loss to Atlanta, saying he’s going to evaluate all his starters. Vick then said he would support whatever decision Reid makes, which was different from saying he deserves to be replaced.
The Eagles’ headquarters was closed Monday because of superstorm Sandy, and there was no media availability.
Reid has changed his mind on his starting quarterbacks in a 24-hour period before, reversing his call on Kevin Kolb and replacing him with Vick in 2010. It’s unlikely he would do it again and give Foles his first NFL snap on the road in a Monday night game against New Orleans (2-5) next week.
Foles, a third-round pick out of Arizona, had an outstanding preseason. However, he did so playing against backups, third-stringers and guys who didn’t make a roster. Foles impressed coaches and teammates, and fans have been calling for him to start since Week 1.
Simply, Vick wasn’t the problem against the Falcons. He did not turn the ball over and he does not play defense. Under new coordinator Todd Bowles, the Eagles allowed scores on Atlanta’s first six possessions, including touchdowns on the first three.
As for the offense, injuries to All-Pro left tackle Jason Peters and center Jason Kelcehave crippled the unit. Vick hasn’t had much time to throw and gets hit often. Playcalling isn’t helping, either. Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg have underused All-Pro running back LeSean McCoy in the past three losses.
Vick led Philadelphia to comeback wins with go-ahead touchdowns on its final drive the first two games of the season. But he’s been inconsistent and turnover-prone overall. Vick has just a 78.6 passer rating, his lowest since joining the Eagles. He’s coming off a rare turnover-free performance after throwing eight interceptions and losing five fumbles in the first six games.
Benching Vick and turning the offense over to Foles could be a way to shake things up. It also could be interpreted as giving up on the season.
