The Eagles' deep and talent receiving corps has been a hot topic of late, with fans and media alike debating the five or six names that will be among those on the 53-man roster.
The play of rookie Brandon Gibson, a sixth-round pick of Washington State, has prompted speculation that the team could be willing to shop either Reggie Brown or Hank Baskett. The Jets, Ravens and even the Titans are reportedly in the market for receiver help.
Dave Hutchinson of *The Newark Star-Ledger *confirmed that the Jets are monitoring potential veteran receivers that could be available and have an eye on Philadelphia's roster. However, he says the Jets have not been "overly impressed with Reggie Brown," and that "the price tag might be too high" for Baskett.
Brown hauled in a 9-yard touchdown pass from Kevin Kolb in Thursday night's win over Jacksonville, and has five receptions during the preseason, including three against the Jaguars. Baskett had two catches in the Jags game, but failed to bring a tough yet catchable fade pass from Donovan McNabb in the end zone in the first half.
Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said he's been pleased with the production of the team's receivers, both in practice and in the games.
"They're competing at a high level," Mornhinweg said. "There are some battles going on, but the last thing you want them to do is start counting numbers and slotting themselves. You don't want to do that. You want to do the very best you can and let the chips fall."
Originally a second-round draft pick of the Eagles in 2005, Brown has been a productive receiver over his four-year career in Philadelphia. Among all players with at least 20 third-down receptions since 2006, Brown's 95.8 first-down conversion rate (23 for 24) ranks third.
Baskett has become a valuable option at receiver with his size and athletic ability, setting career highs in catches (33) and touchdowns (3) in 2008. He has also contributed on special teams and was voted that unit's MVP in 2007.
Head coach Rex Ryan and the Jets will get a first-hand look at both receivers when the teams clash Thursday night in the preseason finale.
-- Posted by Bob Kent, 3:11 p.m., August 30
