In the wake of David Akers' revelation that his 6-year-old daughter, Halley, was diagnosed with a malignant tumor just days prior to the season-ending loss to the Green Bay Packers, many fans have wondered why did head coach Andy Reid make a comment regarding Akers' two missed field goals in the 21-16 loss.
When asked for the third time during the post-game press conference about Akers' misses, and specifically how important those two missed field goals were, Reid said, "We can all count. Those points would have helped."
After becoming the all-time leading scorer in Pro Bowl history on Sunday night, Akers spoke with 610-WIP about Reid's comment and said that he has no issue with what was said.
"First off, I understand. As upset as I am myself, Andy's my boss. When I go out and miss and the points did make a significant difference in the game. I always say that if I make a mistake I hope it doesn't affect the outcome of the game. Well, those two kicks affected the outcome of the game. Were there other issues that happened that game? Absolutely," Akers said. "But you have a boss and your boss says things that occasionally come down on you and that's fine. I think it's one of those things where he has the respect and the understanding I can take it."
Akers said that Halley "is doing very well right now" following surgery to remove her left ovary. Akers and his entire family spent the week in Hawaii for the Pro Bowl.
"Very much enjoyed a well-deserved getaway," Akers said. "Actually, doctor's orders to get out of town and get all of our minds off of what we went through there."
Akers said that through and through, there's no excuse for the way he performed.
"What I did in that game had nothing to do with my daughter," Akers said. "I should be able to go out and perform at the highest level and bring respect to the Eagles organization and do my job for the fans. That's ultimately what we get paid to do and that's what my job is and I will never use any excuse other than the fact that I didn't play well that day unfortunately."
Akers is one of 16 players whose contract expires along with the Collective Bargaining Agreement in March. He said that he wants to "win a championship and to do it here in Philadelphia" but his future is uncertain because of the unresolved CBA situation.
-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 11:40 a.m., February 2
