Over the last few years in Philadelphia, the two biggest sports organizations were polar opposites in terms of public relations. The Philadelphia Eagles were known for being smug. They acted like a team that had won four straight Super Bowls and that angered fans. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies were doing everything right on their way to selling out the ballpark on a regular basis. But lately, things have changed. While the Phillies have been mired in a series of public relations nightmares, the Eagles seem to be earning back a lot of love. Here is a look at why the Eagles are enjoying the most positive image they have had in years.
The front office is more open
It's no secret that fans dread the Andy Reid press conference after a game. The coach reveals so little that it is almost insulting. However, Reid is a lot more talkative after the disaster that was the 2011 season. That might change in the regular season, but it is nice to hear the coach speak a little more. However, the biggest difference is Howie Roseman. The general manager is the opposite of Joe Banner in every way. He openly admits the value of certain players and makes sure that the Eagles retain them. He is the most likeable front office guy that this team has had in years.
They are spending money
For a while there, the Eagles thrived on coming in under the salary cap by tens of millions of dollars. However, the mentality of this team has really changed. Over the last two offseasons, the Eagles have spent money in order to win. Sure, 2011 saw some flops but the team still brought in Nnamdi Asomugah, Jason Babin, and Cullen Jenkins. In 2012, the Eagles gave extensions to players like DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy, and Todd Herremans. Fans want to see a team that doesn't come off as cheap, and the Eagles are finally shedding that label.
They've embraced the skill positions
Under Reid, the Eagles haven't had a lot of great skill players. Outside of Brian Westbrook and one good year from Terrell Owens, there weren't a lot of exciting offensive players before 2009. However, the Eagles are overloaded with them now. Jackson, McCoy, Jeremy Maclin, and Brent Celek are all great at what they do. The Eagles have embraced the running game because of McCoy. They have also realized the difference that a good receiver can make. The team deserves a lot of credit for finally valuing the skill players.
The cocky attitude is gone
There is no dream team talk in 2012. The Eagles are finally acting like a team that has something to prove and that is a good thing. After the first day of OTAs, several players openly spoke about the frustrations of 2011 and what they are doing to make sure the new season will be better. This is the most likeable roster that the team has had in a long time. There are bunch of good players that seem to have the right attitude. Those are the players that fans will get behind.
Mark Paul is a Philadelphia resident and lifelong Eagles fan.
