Let's understand what linebacker Dannell Ellerbe has on his plate: He signed with the Eagles on November 13, so he's in his third week in a new city, a different locker room, and a defense that is written in a foreign language.

Oh, and with Joe Walker listed as questionable for Sunday's game after not practicing all week, it's very likely that Ellerbe will be active and on the field for the first time in Seattle, in some capacity. Ellerbe and Najee Goode are considerations in the event that Walker does not play.

There's no such thing as baby steps in the NFL. Not for players with nine years of experience in the league on a team that faces such a stiff challenge in a prime-time spot.

"I can't say that I know all of the defense, because that's just not possible in only a few weeks," Ellerbe said on Friday. "The terminology is totally different than what I'm used to. They can tone it down, shorten the package. I'm pretty sure I wouldn't get the full package. Whatever I have to do, I will do it.

"This is just getting in the groove out there on the field. Watching film, you're going to know what the offense is doing. You just have to go out there and play. I feel like I'll be good if I had to get in there."

Known as a physical player, Ellerbe has worked his way, as much as is possible, to get into game shape in the short time he's been an Eagle. There isn't any tackling in practice at this  point in the season, so Sunday night would be the first time he's tackled anyone all season.

Doesn't matter. When it's time to play, if it's time to play Ellerbe will be ready to go.

"I'm extremely excited to get back out there," he said. "This is what I do for my profession. I want to play and help this team."