Perhaps the one silver lining amid all the injuries is the emergence of playmakers like Leonard Weaver.
The Eagles' starting fullback proved to be quite a weapon Sunday in the Georgia Dome. His 100 yards from scrimmage included a one-handed grab which he turned into a 59-yard catch-and-run. He also caught a 4-yard touchdown pass from Donovan McNabb.
It's all in a day's work for Weaver, now in his fifth season.
"It just showed them a little bit more of what I can do," Weaver said. "In this league, it's about consistency. That's one thing I want to show the Eagles."
Weaver had just 11 touches in the first six games. That number increased to 37 touches over the last six games. He is averaging a hefty 6 yards a carry and 9.5 yards per catch.
It started on Nov. 1 against the Giants. With Brian Westbrook sidelined by a concussion, Weaver rushed for 75 yards on eight carries, including a career-best 41-yard touchdown run.
"We just had a different rotation going where he didn't get quite as many carries when Brian was healthy," head coach Andy Reid said. "Each week he has gotten better. He had some nice catches Sunday and some nice runs. He's playing good football right now."
His outing against the Falcons, coupled with the damage he did last time the Eagles played New York, figures to have the attention of the Giants coaching staff this week.
Weaver hopes to continue to do his part in the weeks ahead. He also hopes that his efforts might earn him a place on Philadelphia's roster for years to come.
Weaver showcased his abilities both as a blocker as well as with the ball in his hands while playing under Mike Holmgren in Seattle. His transition to Philadelphia's system has been virtually seamless.
Signed to a one-year deal in the offseason, the 27-year-old Weaver hopes to join a growing list of young players signed to a long-term deal here.
"I love this organization, I love being around here," Weaver said. "It's a place I'd love to be, long-term."
-- Posted by Bob Kent, 7:30 p.m., December 8
