Quarterback Michael Vick said on Wednesday that he is most thankful to be able to spend the holiday with his family. That was something taken away from him when he spent nearly two years in prison.

Vick's teammates also have a lot to be thankful for on and off the field. Cornerback Dimitri Patterson is a full-time starter for the first time in his career. But the 27-year-old is simply happy that he can provide for his family.

"I'm just thankful to be able to be in a situation where I'm doing what I want to do especially given the state of the economy and what's going on in other people's lives," Patterson said. "I'm grateful to be able to wake up in the morning and collect a check to be honest."

Rookies Brandon Graham and Nate Allen feel blessed that they have had the opportunity to help make an impact for this 7-3 Eagles team.

"This is a dream," Allen said.

"I'm thankful for being in this opportunity," Graham said. "I'm thankful to have my family here behind me. I'm thankful to have everybody in good health."

Linebacker Ernie Sims doesn't take winning for granted anymore. After being a part of the 0-16 Detroit Lions team, Sims is happy to be a part of a playoff run for the first time in his five-year career.

"I'm just thankful to be on this team in Philadelphia. I'm thankful for winning. That's something an NFL player takes for granted," Sims said. "I've been on the other side of the fence."

Offensive tackle Winston Justice praised his line coach in Juan Castillo. Once a promising second-round pick, Justice went from relative afterthought to starting right tackle.

"(I'm thankful) for a coach to have a lot of faith in the things unseen," Justice said. "He has a lot of faith in his players."

-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 9:15 a.m., November 25