“They like me, they really like me!” That’s what LeSean McCoy can say after hearing the well-deserved accolades from his NFL brothers about his speed and skill.
On the NFL Network’s continuing series of the “Top 100 best players of 2013,” nary an Eagles player had been mentioned in the bottom half of the countdown. Sure, the Birds are coming off of a terrible season. No players had been selected for the Pro Bowl. Would the team collectively be slighted of this offseason accolade as well?
It certainly seemed that way until Thursday’s selections of numbers 50-41 were revealed. The lone Eagle so far represented in the countdown? Running back LeSean McCoy, very often was the single bright spot in games in the 2012 season, was featured as the 45th best player in the league as voted by his peers.
The segment opened with Steelers corner Ike Taylor saying of Shady, “Man, that boy’s got some Allen Iverson feet, but he’s playing football.”
Very high and appropriate praise for one of Philadelphia’s favorite Eagles.
McCoy’s peers went on to express their admiration of his speed, vision down the field, and ability as a receiver. All of these attributes make Shady a difficult threat for defenses to contain. And that’s why he is one of Philadelphia’s most potent offensive weapons.
Despite missing 4 games last season, McCoy finished the year with 840 rushing yards, , 373 receiving yards, and a total of 5 touchdowns (2 rushing, 3 receiving).
Shady topped players like Atlanta Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez (47) and Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton (46) in the episode. Just ahead of McCoy were New England Patriots WR Wes Welker (44), Giants QB Eli Manning at number 43 (BOOO), Ravens DT Haloti Ngata (42), and Cowboys’ TE Jason Witten (41).
On the reaction show immediately following the unveiling of the latest players, Shady showed that he’s ready to prove himself all over again in 2013.
“This year coming up, I am healthy and have something to prove again. I can’t wait. I can’t think of a back in this league that can do as much as I can do. I am focused and ready to roll. I think Coach Kelly is bringing in a new offense that fits me so well, being in open space with so many looks and movements. I think I will have a better year.”
Watching the highlights featured in the segment is probably one of the only times you will smile when thinking about or referencing the 2012 season for the Philadelphia Eagles. Do yourself a favor and check out the video here.
Want more Philly Sports Muse? You can find me on Twitter at @sports_muse and on Facebook.
Brandyn Campbell of Philly Sports Muse, for War Room Sports
Tags: All's Fair in Sports and War, Brandyn Campbell, Football, LeSean McCoy, NFL, NFL Network, Philadelphia Eagles, Philly Sports Muse, Sports Talk Radio, The War Room, War Room Sports
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