Quintin Demps, the Eagles second-year safety, is at a much different place heading into the 2009 season than he was heading into his rookie year.

Last year, Demps was primarily focused on his role as a kickoff returner, and he wasn't really utilized in the defense until late in the season. This preseason however, Demps has been charged with filling the opening as starting free safety opposite Quintin Mikell. Demps has worked with the first-team defense throughout most of training camp and in the first two games against the Patriots and Colts, and overall he's pleased with his progress.

"I'm going up the mountain," Demps said, "There's a little stumble now and again, but I'm gradually going up."

Demps acknowledges that the defensive performance in the first two preseason games left a little to be desired.

"The first two games," Demps said, "Not game planning against Manning and Brady, that's a tough task. But we still have to go out there and execute our defense.

"We just realize that we need to pay more attention to detail on the little things."

Demps isn't the only newcomer to a more prestigious role on the defense. Defensive coordinator Sean McDermott is also in his first year in an increased role, and McDermott has been constantly communicating with Demps.

"He's just telling me to be consistent," Demps said of McDermott, "Bring my swagger every day."

Thursday's game against the Jaguars should paint a clearer picture of what the defense will bring to the table during the regular season.

"We just want to progress," Demps said. "We just want to come back and show that we can play together, fly around and have fun.

"Jacksonville's going to be a real test to see where we're at, so we're going to see."

-- Posted by Bo Wulf, 11:10 a.m., August 26