This bye week was much different than ones in recent years for fourth-year right tackle Winston Justice. Two years ago, the Eagles headed into the bye after the performance that appeared to define Justice's career - the 12-sack game vs. the Giants. Last year, Justice certainly was not getting on the field with ironman Jon Runyan starting at right tackle.
Through an unlikely series of events, Justice is entrenched as the starter at right tackle.
"Yeah, that's a difference," Justice said. "It's a blessing. I really just focus on the week coming up. I try not to think about the past or how far I've come."
The Eagles allowed Runyan to become a free agent in the off-season. The Eagles signed Stacy Andrews, who played right tackle in Cincinnati last season. He is now a reserve guard. Once the Eagles acquired Jason Peters from Buffalo, Shawn Andrews was slotted to move to right tackle. However, Shawn Andrews' back injury flared up in training camp and the door opened for the former second-round pick. He has started all four preseason games and each of the first three regular season games.
"I felt I played all right," Justice said. "I still think I have a lot to improve on, a lot to show ... I have a long way to go. Me and (offensive line coach) Juan (Castillo) are going to go at it every day. It's a blessing to be out there."
Justice was drafted in 2006 with the idea he would eventually take over the starting left tackle spot. That's where he played in that Giants game in 2007 due to an injury to Tra Thomas. Justice was moved to the right tackle spot, which is where he played in college. In this past off-season, Justice finally dedicated himself to the craft and got stronger and improved his hand technique. His footwork has also come a long way since his rookie season.
Justice still gets to slide over to the left side every once in a while. He's the left tackle in the Eagles' Wildcat formation. Peters moves inside to left guard.
"It's fun because me and him are both athletes and me and him like to get after it," Justice said. "Next to each other, we have fun."
If Justice continues to make progress, he may get his shot at the Giants once again on Nov. 1 when they come to town.
-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 10:02 a.m., October 7
