PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

NO. 7

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

The Eagles will soar -- or falter -- based on the success -- or failure -- of quarterback Donovan McNabb.  Though the team played well in 2006 after McNabb suffered a torn ACL, the ability of the Eagles to climb the mountain will depend on the ability of McNabb to return from that knee injury and stay healthy.

McNabb has a strong incentive in this regard.  If he falters, the Kevin Kolb era could commence.

The rest of the roster is strong.  Running backs Brian Westbrook and Correll Buckhalter are a solid one-two punch.  The receiving corps is effective if unspectacular, and newcomer Kevin Curtis could provide a much-needed boost, especially after the departure of Donte' Stallworth. 

The defense, though not dominant, has been good enough to be successful, and has a nice mix of young and older players.

Though the Eagles might not make it to the postseason in the AFC, they're more than good enough to win a division that's in a down cycle, and to make it as far as the NFC title game in a conference that has been generally performing only a step or two above the CFL.

Key departures:  S Michael Lewis; WR Donte' Stallworth; QB Jeff Garcia.

Key arrivals:  WR Kevin Curtis; LB Takeo Spikes; DT Montae Reagor.

Draft pick most likely to make an impact:  S C.J. Gaddis, since he's the only rookie currently higher than third string on the depth chart.  (And, of course, Gaddis didn't make the 53-man roster.  Doh.)

Coach's current job security:  Three years, but he could resign after 2007 due to family issues.