Returning to the practice field in full capacity on Wednesday is dynamic receiver DeSean Jackson. Head coach Andy Reid said that Jackson has passed his final concussion test, administered by an independent doctor, and has been cleared to return to any and all football-related activities. Head coach Andy Reid said that he will take it "day by day" regarding Jackson's availability for this Sunday's game against the Colts.
Jackson told reporters that he practiced on a limited basis Monday, but Wednesday will be his first full day on the practice field since the concussion he suffered in Week 6 against Atlanta.
Jackson said on Wednesday he's just excited to get back out on the field with the rest of his teammates.
"It feels good," Jackson said. "Being away from the games and practice and things like that, it's been hard to just sit around and watch. It feels good to get back out there and get going."
But Jackson isn't about to take any chances with his health, especially when it comes to head injuries. So much has been made of late about the lasting effects of concussions that they must be treated with the upmost care and consideration, by both the training staff and the player.
It's always difficult for a player to take himself out of a game, or declare himself not ready to return to practice. Jackson has learned, however, that with concussions it's crucial for him to communicate effectively and be smart about his return to the field.
"That's always first, my health," Jackson said. "I'll definitely worry about that. I'm not going to just go run back out there if I'm not healthy enough to be the same receiver that I'm usually able to be. So that's what we're trying to figure out.
"Any time you get a concussion, it's obviously not that good. Dealing with your brain, it's unfortunate but I'll be right back where I need to be going out there and still being able to play."
If Jackson is able to play, it will pair him back up with quarterback Michael Vick for the first time since the first quarter of a Week 4 loss to Washington. Vick left that game with a rib cartilage injury. In limited time together, Vick and Jackson have connected for a pair of touchdowns and 288 yards receiving.
-- Posted by Josh Goldman, 2:15 p.m., November 3
