I didn't get to see much of the Seahawks much this season. So I was intrigued to check them out during the playoffs last weekend.
Their defense is lights out. And at the center of that defense is a name that will haunt Eagles fans for a long time.
Earl Thomas.
He's the safety the Eagles have needed desperately since the ugly departure of Brian Dawkins. But it didn't happen, because the Eagles decided instead to select Brandon Graham. How's that worked out for you?
Thomas was on the board when the Eagles made the No. 13 pick in the 2010 draft. But for some reason they decided against Thomas and instead opted for Graham, touted as a big-time pass-rushing defensive end from Michigan.
Thomas is now an All-Pro. Graham has not done much with the Birds, slowed by injuries and this year adjusting to a new role as a linebacker in the Eagles new 3-4 defensive system.
Every time I watched that Seahawks secondary cover the Saints potent offense, including standout tight end Jimmy Graham, I saw Thomas in the middle of it.
My guess is he will be a key Sunday when the Seahawks face the 49ers in the NFC title game.
In the meantime, here in Philly, we're talking about next year.
And the Eagles' need for a big-time safety. Nate Allen? He played better this year, but he's not in the same zip code as Thomas.
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