2006 Might Be Eagles Quarterback Donovan McNabb's Best Season yet

Until 2005, the Philadelphia Eagles, winners of 4 consecutive division titles and the defending conference champion, had grown accustomed to being the heavy favorite. Now, after a dismal, injury-racked, drama-filled 6-10 season, the Eagles are now the hunters instead of the hunted. For the first time in a long time, almost no one is picking them to make the playoffs, much less win the division, the conference, or the Super Bowl. They are truly the forgotten underdog; however, it’s a position Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb relishes.

When asked what player was his favorite athlete was growing up, McNabb, a Chicago native as well as a true student of his craft, replied simply.

“Michael Jordan.” McNabb said. A player who was infamous for his ability to channel any slight, real or perceived, into fuel to elevate his game to new heights. After last season, McNabb has more than enough in the tank to fuel the entire east coast.

Yet, instead of being tight-lipped and reticent, McNabb is having fun again.

A recent example: In the aftermath of the departure of Wide Receiver Terrell Owens, the Eagles have received much criticism for their lack of a “stud” receiver to replace TO’s production. When asked during training camp by Sports Illustrated Michael Silver to name his pick for a possible breakout surprise among that much maligned receiving corps, McNabb paused then stroked his chin pensively, seeming to give the question much thought.

“John Turner,” McNabb responded.

Silver scribbled the name down furiously. “Wow,” Silver said. “You’ve got me on that one, because I’ve never heard of the guy.”

McNabb flashed his playful grin. “You got me too. He’s not even on the roster. Dude’s so fast, you don’t even see him out there.”

Another training camp example: McNabb, appearing on ESPN’s Pardon The Interruption, was asked by host Michael Wilbon asked him to name the one slam, of all the insults and slams McNabb had taken over the past year, that actually hurt McNabb the most.