With Jeremy Maclin sidelined for one to two weeks because of a foot injury, Reggie Brown once again finds himself looking at an increased role in the offense.
Brown made a big impact in the game two weeks ago against the Atlanta Falcons when the Eagles were without DeSean Jackson. In that game, Brown hauled in two catches for 64 yards, including a 43-yard catch on a pass from Michael Vick.
Last Sunday, Brown caught two passes for 31 yards against the Giants, and had a pivotal play during the Eagles' game-winning 91-yard drive in the fourth quarter. Brown caught a pass over the middle from Donovan McNabb and displayed an impressive ability to make defenders miss, running back across the field to pick up extra yards.
"I was a little tired (after that play)," Brown said. "The type of team we have, we can win 3-0 or we can win 45-(38). You have a great defense that can get a pass rush and stop the run and you have an offense that can control the ball and put points up. That type of versatility, we have a pretty good team going here and we have a pretty good streak going as well."
The five-year veteran is a proven starting-caliber wide receiver, and both head coach Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg have said that Brown's experience in that role is a great comfort.
"I just have to prepare," Brown said, when asked how Maclin's injury affects him. "I just have to keep studying and make sure I know everything and let my natural ability take it from there."
In 2006 and 2007, Brown had back-to-back seasons with over 750 receiving yards. Last season, he missed time with an injury and has provided valuable depth ever since.
"I'm proud of the way he's handled it," Reid said earlier this season. "He's worked very hard on putting himself in this position and getting an opportunity to play."
-- Posted by Bo Wulf, 8:15 p.m., December 15
