No Apologies

There has been a lot of talk about the interview I did on HBO's Real Sports. I have no apologies. I was asked a variety of questions and I answered them. The fact that the producers and publicists at HBO decided to focus on those answers that related to race shows that it remains a hot topic in society today. Let me address some feedback... First, the interview took place in August before the season started so for those who think I "played the race card" because we are 0-2 are dead wrong. I did not say that Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Carson Palmer are not criticized when they don't play well. They have been criticized when they throw interceptions, when the throw incompletions, and when their teams don't win. They are criticized and so is every other quarterback for that matter. And that type of criticism may, in fact, be warranted. But that's not the type of criticism that we discussed. Black quarterbacks have to deal with different things than white quarterbacks. If you don't think that's true than you are na?ve. Peyton, Tom and Carson to name a few, have never been asked what it's like to be a white quarterback. They probably have not been told that they should have scrambled more. I bet Fran Tarkenton, Steve Young, Jake Plummer, and Doug Flutie have never been told by a member of any racial consciousness organization that they don't play the quarterback position white enough. I would love to live in a world where race is not an issue. But it is. I did not ask HBO to interview me but I did consent. I did not bring up the topic of race but I didn't back down from it either. This interview was supposed to be about how my career has been surrounded by controversy and how my upbringing has shaped the way I have dealt with it. Unfortunately, the interview itself has created yet another controversy. All I did was answer the questions that were asked of me honestly and truthfully. I had no agenda. The people of Philadelphia have criticized my coach for not answering questions. Now I'm criticized for answering questions. I understand if people have a different opinion or view point than I do, I really do. I think if there is one thing I understand better than most people - it's okay to be different.

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Comments (385)

ralfo08 said September 20, 2007

Good to see someone in sports not afraid to be honest. Have a good season.
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- JimbobOdion replied November 16, 2007
  
  I'm really late, but I'd like to add that I think football in general is a racially discriminating sport to a certain degree. For anyone who's played the game on any level it has probably been obvious to them at some point or another that as an athlete of any race, you definitely will at some point face the perception that you are going to be more inclined to succeed at a certain positon because of your race. This may mean that you will have to fight off the influence from the coaches and other players that you should be typecast to fit a certain different role instead of developing your skill and improving. Now, I'm not saying that certain races don't, generally speaking, excel at certain things, because they do, but what I am saying is that it shouldn't matter so much that they do. Stereotypes undermine individual accomplishment, and they hold people back from developing their skills.
LAeaglesGUY said September 20, 2007

It is nice that you put out the clarification, but it isn't necessary. Whether its 0-2, controversy, injury, whatever, your real fans will always be there.
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- thumbsdown replied September 20, 2007
  
  Mr. McNabb is right. This has nothing to do with wins and losses, I was wrong for saying so in another article.
Truth4sho said September 20, 2007

Honestly there is nothing to apologize about what so ever , like I said before the double standard gets applied just because an African American speaks about a topic being critical of race. We get labeled a 'trouble maker' or whining or some other mythical term. All you said is the critics are "different" that is a true statement indeed.
I just say it's not only the media that treats Black QB's that way. I say Warren Moon would have even more stats and perhaps a few Championships if he was surrounded with "hands" to help him.
I say Steve McNair being locked out would NEVER happen to a franchise White QB, and I also say the same way the Eagles got Reno in 24hours , and just got J.R back on the team in 12 hours means they can get off thier collective @sses and get you some decent recievers to catch a ball, shake a defender and take a freakin hit.
The Organizations trea Black QB's in another light than White QB's , they get the tale, All day !!! I'm talkin Holt & Bruce, Chad and Huz-a-ma call it , Moss , Harrison and everything else. But that's not for you to deal with. We gonna take up that fight.

Holla

Truth 4 Sho
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- whatever replied September 20, 2007
  
  McNabb hasn't had great players around him, but he did have T.O. a few years ago. Differences aside, look what the guy does for Tony Romo in Dallas. The Eagles are pretty shady towards all of their players too - i.e. Trotter; J.R. Reed (it was a huge mistake but come on).
  
  Actually McNabb has faired pretty well within the organization. I think he's the highest paid player. His contract was competitive when he signed it. His line hasn't been terrible. His defense has helped him more than it hurt him. Again, he had T.O. at one time (with a healthy Westbrook no less).
  
  He's probably right about the media, etc. The argument that he never had players around him doesn't really fly though - they just haven't been on offense. Look at Manning, Bulger and Palmer for instance. Do any of them ever had a decent defense? Donovan, meanwhile, has always had a decent/great defense behind him. That's probably part of the reason they pick up a Kevin Curtis instead of a Randy Moss. They probably also anticipated Donovan being 100%, which is huge. A healthy McNabb is like a quarterback with extra running back on the field. It's not a great situation for him to be in, especially when he gets hurt. Because they do expect him to shoulder more of the load offensively. At the same time, his defense isn't giving up 51 points to the Browns and Derek Anderson. It's all a trade off.
  - jaip23 replied November 26, 2007
    
    Donovan isnt the highest paid on the team...believe itor not Trent Cole is..I worked with them...
NYCEagle said September 20, 2007

Disappointing to those of us that have been in your corner all of these years. Sorry your life is so tough. I am sure there are plenty of other guys of all colors that would be happy to step into your shoes. If the worst thing you have to deal with is people questioning why you don't scramble more, you are doing better than the rest of us.
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- FanProphet replied September 20, 2007
  
  Donovan never directed any of those comments to the general public. He did so to the media, which it is a true statement. I can't answer for him, but I'm sure it wasn't to say to his fans "F You" but to the media. We all know how unfair they are just by even focusing on this topic.
  
  It's a true statement so I'll use this as an example....the point guard position with Steve Nash and Jason Kidd. Whenever Nash does something brilliant it's because he's smart. When Kidd does something brilliant it's because of his athletic ability and strength. Magic Johnson was never smart but " saw the floor well" on the other hand, Larry Bird was a smart player. It never had anything to do with how Bird shot "lights out" and played the game light years ahead of others, it was "Bird is such a smart player". It's the media who focuses on that shit and they do it intentionally. If you guys have ever really listened sportscasters you will here this. if not, make sure you do.
  - NYCEagle replied September 20, 2007
    
    I realize his comments were about the media...but what did he gain by this?!? He is a role model for many young children: black, white and everything in between. Comments like this perpetuate the us vs. them mentality that exists in the world today. He should be focused on winning football games not whining about how hard it is to be Donovan McNabb. He is going to be booed off the field and our chances for a winning EAGLES season are now slim. This is a team game. As such, the leader has a responsibility to the team. These comments were irresponsible. If his goal was to get booted out of Philly, he probably succeeded. For the first time in 8 years, I will not be wearing my #5 jersey this Sunday.
    - otis29 replied September 20, 2007
      
      Even if you feel that it was wrong for Donovan to speak out on this issue (a viewpoint that I strongly disagree with), why would you quit wearing your #5 jersey? The guys is a class act for years and consistently leads a winning team - yet he makes one mistake (in your opinion) and you bail out on him?
      I'm thinking maybe his comments hit a bit too close to home for you.
    - NYCEagle replied September 20, 2007
      
      Of course racism exists in the world today. There are many, many small-minded, ignorant people out there. I just didn't expect our leader to add fuel to the fire which is what comments like this do.
    - scblacks replied September 21, 2007
      
      Yes, while Donovan is a role model for youth; why shouldn't he educate those youth that this behavior and mentality exist in society? The first steps to change, is educating those of what is going on, which is all that he was doing. You should understand his occupation is not to just win football games. When you purchased that #5 jersey, I hope that you did not just purchase it because of his athletic ability and the yards he passed for over the years. While that should have been part of the reason, but I hope you also thought by putting that jersey on you were representing a man that has values, morals, and beliefs; that should have been copasetic with yours.
    - mstearne replied September 20, 2007
      
      "Comments like this perpetuate the us vs. them mentality that exists in the world today."
      So you're saying it exists in the world today so you agree with Donovan. You just don't want him to be able to say what you see and believe to be true.
    - NYCEagle replied September 21, 2007
      
      "You should understand that his occupation is not just to win football games." REALLY?!?! I am sure this is news to Jeff Lurie, Andy Reid and the rest of Philadelphia. What, then, IS the scope of his occupation?
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- evenleif replied September 20, 2007
  
  Your time has come and gone, thankfully. Thanks for the Championship. Take your racist comments to another city where they will be appropriate, maybe. Philadelphia has a huge problem with violent crime, I should know I've lived here my whole life. For us black men it hard enough trying to deal with our own people hurting each other. We often times look to sports figures to have hope for the future. Your constant racist comments are hurting us and relationship with the people of America. You are not saying anything that will change anything, you're just making it worse.
  - jrsu37 replied September 21, 2007
    
    "You are not saying anything that will change anything,"
    And neither are you my friend.
  - mstearne replied September 20, 2007
    
    You're an idiot and I wish McNabb had the power that you make him out to have.
- Ranchorich replied September 27, 2007
  
  Amen brother - like Charles Barkley years ago and his slavery remark - All these guys should count their blessings before they open up their mouths.
toiltoil said September 20, 2007

Amen, Big Five.
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- evenleif replied September 20, 2007
  
  Amen? NO. This attitude must stop. I have not heard anyone say anything positive about five's comments.
SammyK said September 20, 2007

It's great to hear that and don't worry about the media, they just blow everything out of proportion.
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- evenleif replied September 20, 2007
  
  NO. This is terrible to hear. This is creating needless racial tension.
  - margeschott replied September 21, 2007
    
    is there such athing as needed racial tension ?
    - thumbsdown replied September 22, 2007
      
      is it better to bottle it up and act like it doesn't exit?
rainwave23 said September 20, 2007

Donovan,

I agree with you 100%. I say this as a white male in his 20's and I can cleary see the same thing you see. Remember though, for every one person that criticizes you, there are 10 that support you. We Eagles fans do appreciate everything you've done for the city and the organization. You have been my favorite player since you were at Syracuse. You have my unconditional support. There are many that feel the same way. I hope that you don't feel that the majority of Eagles fans don't support you or want you gone. I hope you stay with the Eagles and can retire here after playing 8-10 more years, bringing Super Bowls here. If not, and you play elsewhere, I will support you there as well.

I look forward to you turning the season around starting this week. Keep your head up. You guys have been 0-2 before, and went deep into the playoffs. I have faith you can do the same this year.

My email is rain23wave@hotmail.com if you'd like to contact me personally.

Sincerely,

Mike M
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- evenleif replied September 20, 2007
  
  I disagree with you 100%. I say this as a black male in his late 30's. You're just a football player and there is NO issue. I don't know why you think that. None of my brothers feel that way. I have many white friends as well who just want to see our Eagles win, regardless of the color of the quarterbacks skin.
SammyK said September 20, 2007

I love you D-Mac, don't worry about anything bro it's all gonna be good.
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moneychamp said September 20, 2007

I am a big fan of yours Donovan, I have your jearsys, McFarlane figuers, rookie cards and autograph pictures. I dont just admire how you play the game but also how you handle all the contraversy. I thank you for clearing up the interview and giving your side so these idiots, that didn't get what you were saying, can get off your back! The Eagles will bounce back. 0-2 will be 4-2 before we know it and we wont be hearing the haters anymore. The noise will be everyone jumping on the bandwagon!
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- evenleif replied September 20, 2007
  
  Please never make comments about race. I feel that you are not educated enough on the subject. You do not know what this does to the average fan on the street. It does not help us.
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dantheman said September 20, 2007

I am tired of the race card, look around you don't see a lot of white players on defense or in the backfeild or splitouts. Stop crying and play football
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- evenleif replied September 20, 2007
  
  It's sports, not life. Sports are not important in the grand scheme of things. The only thing they are for is making people happy and bringing some joy in their life. When a sports figure talks about it in a negative fashion it only brings people down.
- rainwave23 replied September 20, 2007
  
  Shut up. Every man, including athletes are entitled to their opinion. And since this is an issue Donovan feels very strongly about, why shouldn't he bring it up since his fame will get people talking about it? It's called making a difference in society and trying to make it a better place.
  
  By the way, he does play football. very well. Has been to a Super Bowl, won division titles, been to pro bowls, etc. So, obviously this stuff does not distract him. Get off his back and stop telling someone infinitely more successful than you what to do.
  - evenleif replied September 20, 2007
    
    OK blogging tough guy. You do not tell a black man to shut up when talking about racial issues that you do not experience. If you had to live in my world with people bringing up these comments, you would speak up against them too. McNabb is not an authority on race relations. It obvious through his lack of knowledge when it comes to the subject. He does not realize the divide that it causes. He doesn't know, and you don't know for certain. McNabb thinks that this brings light to the issue. Well, it does, but it is so negative and arbitrary. His comments were an embarassment and so superficial. He is only concerned about hmself. He needs to focus on FOOTBALL, and leave race relations to the experts. That also goes for his father, whom I believe is ultimately behind this.
    - Ranchorich replied September 27, 2007
      
      I guess if you are a real fan of McNabb then this could be an emotional subject. Personally I think McNabb knows what he is doing and what the results will be when he makes statements like that. I respect how you guys feel because you obviously love the guy and probably deservedly so. I am just tired of the Clinton Portis, Charles Barkley and all the other millionaire athletes talking abut how they are repressed when we all know that is BS. McNabb made the comment - and anyone with half a brain should laugh and let it go because it was such a stupid comment that taking it seriously diminishes you. Athletes are people and people say and do stupid things, McNabb just does it more often than most other spoiled athletes.
tonedeft said September 20, 2007

It's unfortunate how the media always tries to milk things for whatever they can. I understand that you didn't instigate the questions but I have to say I disagree with your thinking. Not what you are thinking, but the way you are thinking.
People want you to scramble because it brings such a dynamic addition to what you can already do. Now (before your injury) when you scramble, it seems like the DBs don't bite anymore because they don't believe that you are going to run. You are just going to try to buy time to throw it. Before, they didn't know what to do. If they stayed with the receiver you broke off on a huge run. If they came in after you, you threw to the receiver he just left open. That's why we miss you running. I grew up watching Randall Cunningham and marveled over his athletic ability at QB and in your first few years when you could see how you were picking things up, I kept thinking about how good you would be having that skill Cunningham had on top of having a cannon arm and the understanding of the defense. ..but you started resenting that people wanted you to run because you felt that was a stereotype of a Black QB. Who cares what people think. The only people that matter are the defense and you had them completely confused. Don't get me wrong, I still believe that you are an elite QB even without that aspect, but it was something that only you had.

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- FanProphet replied September 20, 2007
  
  "Randall Cunningham and marveled over his athletic ability at QB"
  
  This is exactly what I mean. It had nothing to do with Cunningham being smart and setting up defenses so he could make that play. And what's even worse, the media used to criticize him for doing that.
  
  Tone, don't get me wrong I'm not criticizing this comment, and by far I think it's the most intelligent one I've seen thus far. Sure, it would be nice if Donovan played the game the way he wants to and knows how to, and not the way others want him to play. Yes, Donovan's arsenal would be tremendous if he took what the defense gave him.
iggle36 said September 20, 2007

Donovan I am glad that you stand by what you said. The people who are angry about your comments, are probably racist, or think down upon black quarterbacks. No matter what you say there will always be some group of people who don't like it. You can't make everybody happy.
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EagleBurger said September 20, 2007

I'm white. I know I probably don't know what it means to be black and or a black quarterback. What I do know: I'm proud you are our quarterback.
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IjoniWarrior said September 20, 2007

I was in a bar last year when one patron shouted that the Eagles could never win with Donovan. When asked why he would say that- the man stood up- looked around at every face in the bar- then said
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tonedeft said September 20, 2007

Oh yeah, one more thing. Don't pay attention to our mentally handicapped reporters in Philly. They just want people to read their papers and they know if they put something negative about you, it will get read.
I have no doubt the slump you are in is only temporary and you will get it fixed. And we realize it's not all on you either. Someone needs to teach your receivers how to catch too.
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Smedley said September 20, 2007

I actually hear more commentators talk about how you are always looking downfield, even as you approach the line of scrimmage, then how you should run more.

I think different QBs are judged based on their strengths and weaknesses. QBs that show they can run the ball well are expected to do so, because of what it brings to the team. Even Steve Young.

You have your opinions and I can accept that, although I disagree with your premise.
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gddaght said September 20, 2007

I feel you bro!
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rooney1t said September 20, 2007

Donovan...I like you. You're a good model for all kids. You are a good citizen who plays the game with your God-given talents. You are a credit to your mom and dad...and your family...and I and a lot of folks admire you for that.
From a QB perspective...your mechanics are not good. You do not set your feet; You are releasing the ball too soon in the arc when you miss high and releasing the ball too late in the arc when you throw low. From a mechanical perspective...your biggest weakness is that you do not release the ball on time.
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eaglefan30 said September 20, 2007

It's beyond your control so try not to think about it. I know that's easy to say when you tune in to Espn and other sports stations and that's all you hear but you been through this kind of stuff before and I know you know how to handle yourself well. Take care Donovan. Eagle fan out!
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3rdEyeOpen said September 20, 2007

Black Maybe!!! For years black quarterbacks in the NFL have been viewed as a novelty.
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Eagles2007 said September 20, 2007

Donovan, you failed to explain exactly how black QB's are criticized more than white QB's. You said you deal with facts, yet you have no facts to support your ridiculous opinion. Do you know the meaning of the word supposition? Everything you've said regarding race in relation to QB's is pure supposition. In your press conference, you said you deal with facts. You sound like an uneducated person with a chip on his shoulder. Please use your brain to explain the facts. Tell us how black QB's receive more criticism than white QB's. Give us the facts. Correct me if I'm wrong. The two people who criticized you the most are Terrel Owens and Jerry Mondeshire(Head of the local NAACP). I believe they're both black. In your most recent post(entitiled no apologies), you failed to to explain the facts. We're waiting to hear the facts from you, Donovan.
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- Bears2007 replied September 20, 2007
  
  You said facts seven times. Are you autistic? Anyway, he doesn't have to give evidence. This is simply how society is. You've never been in his shoes, you've never been privy to the conversations he's had, and apparently you forgot Rush Limbaugh. I don't know why people get so offended that there is racism in the world.
  - wolfgirl replied September 22, 2007
    
    as an avid eagle fan i have actually heard moronic people say that a black quarterback cannot win the big one!!i myself am completely insulted by comments like this.it is disgusting! #5 is a warrior!!he won games with a broken ankle,not an easy feat, people have very short memories of all the great things dono has done for philly.i remember when we were happy to win a couple of games..
- FREDSAB replied September 20, 2007
  
  Listen the facts speak for themeselves in totality. Black quarterbacks have always been treated differently. Color makes a huge difference across teh board in america. Why are we the only race of people who have to have the voting rights extended every 30 years. Philadelphia is very racist. People do not want to discuss race because our government and the white entitlement that someone is better than me because of teh clor of my skin. Philadelphia does not treat their star players fair that is why the city is a loser dirty, rat infested, poorly run city , poor education, run down housing.
  - whatever replied September 20, 2007
    
    Are you talking about Philadelphia the city or Philadelphia the NFL team? If you're talking about the former, I'm not sure where you're coming from. The city is predominantly African American and has had John Street (an African American) as its mayor for several years. Not to mention, Michael Nutter, another African American, will likely be its next mayor.
    I'm also not sure how you can argue that the owner of a professional sports team is responsible for problems of an entire city. Don't get me wrong, not having a champion for who knows how long probably isn't great for the fans, but how do the Eagles, who have actually been playing well for several years, have anything to do with how poorly the city is run?
    As far as the environment in the NFL goes, I'd have side with the players.
- Tmac05 replied September 21, 2007
  
  See the problem with you is YOU along with all the other haters feel a need to get a direct answer. He is his own man and the fact that you want him to explain something exactly is YOUR problem. Your not his father or someone of any importance that he should make you understand because for you to want understanding that says your all the way disconnected to how race is portayed period and thats your ignorance. He felt what he said and thats that!!!!! Who are you anyway?? Are you even relevant?? You are obviously the uneducated person with the chip. BIG FIVE let the haters keep on talking and you get healthy and do your thing!! REAL EAGLES BLEED GREEN!!
- margeschott replied September 21, 2007
  
  and you write like an unedumacated person.
- HaloChaos replied September 21, 2007
  
  I think thats partly who McNabb was talking about, the NAACP.
slinxtr said September 20, 2007

Eagles2007, I thought he explained it pretty well. And I didn't see anywhere where it was necessarily white people putting the extra scrutiny on black quarterbacks. D makes a good point.
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sexmonkey said September 20, 2007

Donovan, you're completely right. I'm white and I don't find your comments racist or offensive at all. The media is just trying to find a story, the fact that you're a player in Philadelphia, and the team is not doing as well as expected, they're going to take whatever you say completely out of context to make a controversial story about it. I haven't seen the special, and honestly I probably won't. When Rush said what he said about you, and racism came into play, you said you didn't find it racist and thought everybody should just move on, and you are saying the same thing now, that people should just move on and focus on winning football games. This team needs you, you gotta' get this team together and bring one home for the fans, simultaneously silencing all of your critics and doubters.
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Dunesquatch said September 20, 2007

This whole issue has nothing to do with the NFL. It is the society in which we live that makes it exceedingly difficult for any person of color to be accepted. Even with great accomplishments, intelligence or insight a black man's value is always brought into question. The first guy to reach the north pole- a brother- who gets the credit whitey- the first open heart surgery was credited to a white man but was actually done by a brutha. Though things have gotten better, there is still a huge way to go. Until peopele are looked as people rather than a black person or a yellow peron or whatever, this will always be an issue. The government has set a standard of divide and conquer in order to continue their reign, and guess what, it works. And all people are guilty of this kind of prejudgemantalism, it is not only white people, or black people, it is everyone. Fight thte power, love your brothers and sisters !
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- armeck replied September 20, 2007
  
  Whitey? Nice attempt at a insightful social commentary but you failed.
slinxtr said September 20, 2007

(not sure what happened there) "race traitor" for running with the ball instead of standing back there like a statue, "like a white quarterback should"?
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roklugger said September 20, 2007

race will b an issue for as long as all of us live,its nice to hear someone that is a public figure to aknowledge it.im white,im proud to b white.sometimes u just get tired of this pussyfootin society afraid to face the truth.thanx d mac for not being scares ur fan that didnt booo kev
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burnseyjp said September 20, 2007

My biggest complaint about sports fans is that they want a winner so bad that they would rather complain than dig deep and support their team. The year didn't start out how we wanted it to, but I am sure that the players feel that even more than the fans.
It is week 2! The Eagles are famous for starting slow and if you really would like to see them win I don't see how booing during the first quarter of a game can help. Doesn't anyone think that the Skins would feed off of that? Write your messages, call your radio shows, but if playing in Philly is supposed to be a home field advantage....make it one!
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mcnabb4life said September 20, 2007

Donovan, I have been a die hard eagles fan ever since i was old enough to understand the game. You have been my favorite player of all time, and i love what you do on and off the field. I do agree that race plays a factor into the critizism of quarterbacks.
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eaglesfan205 said September 20, 2007

Hey Donovan, as a middle class white male living in the suburbs of South Jersey, I just wanted to let you know that i agree with you. I have followed you throughout your career in this city and it's funny that when you say something it gets magnified by 1,000. It's humorous that this has turned into a circus. It's absolutlely ridiculous. I love the Eagles and have always felt that you have never gotten your fair due in this city. The Philadelphia fans, for the most part, are completely irrational and obnoxious. They are the biggest bandwagon jumpers in the country. It's ironic how now everybody in the city are Phillies fans since the Eagles have started 0-2. You are my favorite athlete of all time and I am dreading the day when you move on to another team, but for your ultimate happiness and fair treatment, I hope you find your way to Chicago next year where you will be appreciated. Not to mention, management will actually get you wide receivers who can beat the bump and run. Good luck Super 5, and remember there are still some respectable Philadelphia fans, all of which love you.
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birchmax said September 20, 2007

It's simple. Real bad timing for HBO and Donovan. Real bad timing when Santa game onto the field an got hit by snowballs. Classic! (ALL) QB's take it on the chin... People in general are getting sick of poor me I'm black & rich. Everyone loves a winner! You don't win, you get hit with bad print. It seems when Donovan is hurt, we get a second stringer who can do great things. Proof is in the puddin. Donovan just can't seem to get it down. Garcis was great. Take Garcia over Donovan (ANY DAY OF THE WEEK).
How do we help Don... here goes...
I have notice when watching the films over the past few years a noticable change in the way Don throws the ball and how he stands. What has happened is simple he got hurt, screws with his flex, he is flexing more upper body than leg hip. He beefed up on the lbs. and muscle mass. Wrong way.. He needs to drop 30lbs, no weight lifting and do all cardio,YOGA and stretching. Seriously, he will be great again if he went in this direction. Watching the films over the years as he has gotten more upper body strenght he over compensates for his natural leg hip movement which allowed him to be more accurate. Watch him throw the ball wobbly and down. Upper body strenght is important but to what degree. Remeber Tiger Woods got all screwed up a few years ago when he pumped to much. He completely threw off his game. If someone in the eagles organization would get hime to lose weight and strech his ass off he would get back to a more accurate QB. Fly Eagles fly..........................
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- 2blackfeet replied September 20, 2007
  
  Ladies and Gentelman, we have a new Quarterback Coach...some guy on a blog.
General_Zod said September 20, 2007

Now this is why YB's such a great forum. Atheletes can speak they're mind w/o any media overlay or media agenda....BRAVO Donovan!
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eaglesfan205 said September 20, 2007

Hey Donovan, as a middle class white male living in the suburbs of South Jersey, I just wanted to let you know that i agree with you. I have followed you throughout your career in this city and it's funny that when you say something it gets magnified by 1,000. It's humorous that this has turned into a circus. It's absolutlely ridiculous. I love the Eagles and have always felt that you have never gotten your fair due in this city. The Philadelphia fans, for the most part, are completely irrational and obnoxious. They are the biggest bandwagon jumpers in the country. It's ironic how now everybody in the city are Phillies fans since the Eagles have started 0-2. You are my favorite athlete of all time and I am dreading the day when you move on to another team, but for your ultimate happiness and fair treatment, I hope you find your way to Chicago next year where you will be appreciated. Not to mention, management will actually get you wide receivers who can beat the bump and run. Good luck Super 5, and remember there are still some respectable Philadelphia fans, all of which love you.
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wall28 said September 20, 2007

Actually, I can recall a number of times where the media has criticized Payton Manning's inability to scramble up until last year. The thing thats different between you and Manning, Palmer, and Brady is the accuracy. You are currently a scrambling qb, who needs to be able to scramble (not nessarily run for yards) in order to make big plays. Now im not saying that can't change, you could become a more accurate pocket passer, but up until now you have not shown it consistantly like the others have. So why do you automatically think that anyone who says you should scramble more is a automatically a racist?
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fedupfan said September 20, 2007

I was a big Mcnabb fan.I couldnt stand Randall. Im 36 and I cant remember any quarterbacks being more p ersecuted than Peyton manning before last year and Dan Marino because they didnt win a super bowl. This is getting old. Shut up! Dont get hurt this year and then tell us how black quarterbacks arent the only ones who always throw up on the field.
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iLL_one77 said September 20, 2007

some people are just ignorant. When i go get my haircut around the corner, where i always go, i cant talk about football and the eagles to my barber. He's an old guy, stuck in old ways i guess, but everytime i bring up the eagles he says "they cant win with a black QB"and man it pisses me off. He doesnt listen to reason or stats or anything. So there is no doubt racism still is around. In fact i had a maintance man come to the house the other day and i asked him are you an eagles fan, and he said yeah and then he said the same thing as my barber. So i put him on blast I said "oh, what are you racist?" and he was studdering and clammering around, so i told him to get the hell out of my house. And of course i did it in front of my family and they were shocked, but i tell you what it felt good. I guess I made a fool look and feel like a fool. Cause he was waiting for me to completly agree with him, like i was supposed to stand up for all my white brothers or something. I got family members and friends that are black and i'll be damned if i let anybody talk bad about them. So I feel that its great that you stood up for what you belive in. At first i admit i was a little taken back by the whole "a black QB has to do a little extra" comment but i dont know everyone who's in charge of rating QB's or leting them play, in every school and team. But if there are people in that position then someone needs to put them on blast. Because i dont think black QB's should have to do a little extra, i think everyone should do a little extra, ya feel me! But i hope you have a great game sunday, I'll most definatly be watching, god bless.
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- margeschott replied September 21, 2007
  
  Chief, find yourself a new barber is what I say.
- LadyFreeEagle replied September 22, 2007
  
  Thank you iLL_one 77. You prove the point that racism is part of all social injustice and the lack of civility and respect that we have for one another. Thanx for putting "that fool" (your own words) on blast !
FREDSAB said September 20, 2007

Donovan I believe in you. I am from Philadelphia and I love my city. However this is a racist city and will never appreciate you for all of your hardwork and dedication that you have put into your craft. Philadelphia has a horrible history of how thety treat black superstars. I think it is time for you and your family to move on. Please go some where you are appreciated. Please stay strong stay positive continue to speak the truth. I lived through how they treated Randall Cunningham and now you. I will always be a Donovan McNabb regardless of where you play.
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serier said September 20, 2007

Well Super 5...I am an Eagle fan in DC. You can best believe I understand your pain! I have followed you since Syracuse. STAY STRONG, KEEP YOUR HEAD UP!!! You lead the team and they need your positive energy!!! I see you rock the WWJD bracelet at all times. So, check this out!!! What did David have when he had to battle Goliath? FAITH and PREPARATION. He had killed lions and bears in his past, so Goliath was nothing more than a normal obstacle for David. Have faith in God, faith in your team, faith in yourself and prepare, prepare, prepare! Opportunities on the GRIDIRON will expose themselves to you. BELIEVE SUPER 5...BELIEVE!!!!!! SUCCESS IS IMMINENT!!! DEFEAT YOUR GOLIATHS!!!
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Dawkins22 said September 20, 2007

I am glad you responded and explained further what the interview was supposed to be about. I watched the interview and at first it did come across to me as if you were starting unnecessary drama which we don't need right now. Philadelphia does not need to deal with any more sports drama. I am glad to know this interview was supposed to be a story about your life and how it has helped you overcome struggles. I also understand that you have more people to answer to being black in the NFL and I am sure that is not always easy. You have to understand that the fans in this city criticize everyone and will continue to criticize you until you bring us to the superbowl. The one part of your interview that I totally disagreed with was when you said that the criticism wouldn't end if you won the superbowl and thats where I think you are wrong. Peyton Manning's criticism definitely dwindled. Black, white, blue, green, red...win us a superbowl and we will build you a statue and worship you. Until then, you will get criticized by the fans of Philadelphia. I am sorry you have to deal with criticism from racial groups because that is completely unfair but you can lessen the Philadelphia criticism by leading this team to victory because that is all we care about in this city.
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slinxtr said September 20, 2007

To those saying that he is crying or whining, he is talking about HIS experience. Have you been following him around for 20 years? I go to about one game a year and I hear a lot of N-word this and McN-word that. Let's get real.
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eaglesfan205 said September 20, 2007

To those of you saying that it doesn't matter what color you are, "Everybody loves a winner." (Speaking that Garcia is better). Umm, Donovan has one of the highest winnning percentages of all time. Check your facts morons.
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jessnclh said September 20, 2007

whats up dono, i just wanted to say a few things. I have been watching the eagles for as long as i can remember. we finally made it to the super bowl and i was in iraq watching it on a 13 inch blurry tv, and i watched every snap like i do now. you are a great quaterback, doesnt matter white or black. You have given the eagles fans a lot of memories and i hope a lot more to come. 0-2, lets move on. We have to get back on track. we will! prove your doubters and nay sayers wrong. good luck this season, lets get our ring back from new england
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EaglesFever911 said September 20, 2007

Hey Donovan - Don't worry about what people think - Just go out there and play your game - You and the Eagles will be fine! This is so cool to see all the positive things written on here! I love that you are actually taking the time to write on this blog! It just goes to show how down to earth you are! You don't need to apologize for anything - you are entitled to your opinion! I hope you go out and do what you do best - Show us what you are made of!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!!! The Eagles All The Way!!!
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cohiba said September 20, 2007

I want to start by saying that I think Donovan has been an outstanding representative of not only football, but the city of Philadelphia for many years. I have always been an Eagles fan and DM is my favorite Eagles QB and I have been watching since the days of Roman Gabriel. Now here comes the tough part...according to the US Census Bureau, 13% of the US population is African American. Now I don't know for sure but I would guess that the percentage of black NFL players is somewhat higher than that. There are 32 NFL teams and 7 black starting QBs (okay, I kept Michael Vick in there for effect). So 22% of NFL QBs are black according to my calculation. The percentage of African Americans as a total of all players must be a lot higher than the QB ratio based on my game viewing experience.
As far as I can tell the NFL is a meritocracy. One makes the team based on their ability to play, not the color of their skin. The same goes for baseball, a sport in which size is not as important. There are a lot of Japanese men playing in the MLB but I can't think of any in the NFL. My point is that because the percentage of African Americans playing in the NFL so far exceeds their percentage of the population, one can only assume that on average, African Americans are better foorball players than whites. As a white man, I have no problem acknowledging what is so obviously a fact.
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PhillyRapture said September 20, 2007

Thank You for coming to the Yard where you won't get misquoted and can speak your unedited mind. As for your statements Truth is right you don't need to apologize for anything, I happen to agree with your statement and it is one of those things that is hard for some people to notice. Even in some of the comments here there are black & white people who know exactly what you are talking about and even cite other examples. It isn't the easiest thing to see from the outside looking in but it is real. Don't let the frenzy distract or get the best of you. This is a huge week for this team to turn things around. The only way to silence the critics is to bring one home and knowing how things go in Philly you are going to have to fight against all odds to do it. Tune out all the negative and stay the course of your focus and goals. Practice, film study, take the O-line out to dinner, but don't get bogged down by this media game. This is an important week for the team. Thanks again for being articulate about these issues here because the true #5 fans greatly appreciate it. Now let's beat Detroit!!!
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RockyBalboa said September 20, 2007

Philadelphia loves McNabb. We may show it in a weird way, but we love him like we loved Barkley, Iverson and Jaworski. Keep speaking your mind and keep winning (or in the case of this season, start winning).
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coachrobe said September 20, 2007

There is a distinct difference between a progressive society and a society that wants to make racism go away by pretending it is merely a figment of our imagination. I can't wait until Donovan leaves Philadelphia and relocates to an area where the fans will embrace him for his character as a man and his ability as a professional football player where he will go on to have a hall of fame career. This town deserves exactly what it is going to get.
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- Dawkins22 replied September 20, 2007
  
  You must be from New England or some place that has won a Superbowl, I dont know EVER. Give me a break. Philadelphia is a hard town when it comes to sports. We have been let down over and over so yes we put pressure on the good players and we analyze them. McNabb has contributed to the Eagles and has showed his ability to lead the team but until we win the Superbowl and stop hearing lame exscuses from the coaches about why things arent working, every player on that team can expect their fair share of criticism. Yes we are bitter but we have been let down over and over and we want to win. Until you have walked a mile in our shoes, do not judge us. We are passionate fans and any player walking into this city knows it and if they cant take it, then they should get out. I have faith in McNabb and his abilities but I am so sick of hearing about how awful the Philadelphia fans are. We have a reason to be so harsh on our teams, they havent made it happen yet. So go on your team's sports blog and write some comments.
ivylily said September 20, 2007

I live in a Philadelphia suburb (actually, in the same town in which the McNabbs reside). Philadelphia sports fans are among the most venal, vicious sports fans in the country. As long as I've lived here, there have been zip zero championships in any sport. Leave Donovan alone. He's coming back to the game way too early after an ACL: healing of an injury like this takes a minimum of 12 to 18 months for full recovery. If you want to beat up on anyone because of the Eagles' dismal start to the season, take a look at Andy Reid. We have a huge problem (pun intended) with some of Reid's very questionable play calling. As for the comment about 'lots of guys who would love to fill your shoes' written earlier: go ahead and try.
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- NYCEagle replied September 20, 2007
  
  Garcia certainly did last year...
Pinkpanthrrr said September 20, 2007

I agree, I meet people everyday that are racist, so you are right, people should not get so upset just because you let it be known. I am glad you do not back down from your statement on ESPN...they are dickheads anyways!!! ;)
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Dewey said September 20, 2007

This Ravens fan is pulling for the D-Mac and the Eagles.
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Ldaley06 said September 20, 2007

Thanks again for taking the time to address your true fans. You have every right to your opinion and the philly sports media yesterday at your PC were like sharks and I commend you for handling the situation as well as you did. As I said yesterday I believe in you and the team, let's win one game at a time. GO EAGLES ~ BEAT DETROIT!
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funkediva said September 20, 2007

I am so proud that you stood by your convictions. In this day, it is often that when a public figure say something that the mass majority does not agree with they find themselves apologizing. It bothers me to the core of my being that some want African Americans to forget racism and move on from slavery. However, it is never viewed as playing the race card when jewish people call out those that they feel are being anti-semitic. It is impossible to forget the fact that racism exist when you have Jena 6, the nooses at the University of Maryland, and the case in West Virginia. I find it disturbing when the reaction of African American is looked at as the cause of the incident. The young black men are at fault because they reacted to three nooses being hung under a tree in this day and age for white students. How do you expect the NFL to be so removed from society. Just look at the facts... How many black NFL owners are there? How many black NFL coaches are there? Yet how many black players are there? You can't tell me that blacks are good enough to play the game, but not good enough to coach the game. Yes, the players are paid lucrative figure, but that is small change in the bucket compared to what the owners of these team make off the players and their talents. I say as a black woman, I am so proud of you and other stong, intelligent black men that speak the truth based on your experiences and stand by them. Much love and respect. Keep your head up and continue to have faith in your abilities and skills.

DM5 #1 fan in Mississippi
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PotsNPans said September 20, 2007

Yet another example of things being taken out of context. Weren't you ASKED what you thought about this topic? The media is just blowing this up off the heals of a Monday night loss.
I'm pumped to watch you pick apart detroit - even if it is in those god awful yellow jerseys. I'll bleed blue and yellow for one weekend i guess.
www.poorsportsblog.blogspot.com
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chaindog said September 20, 2007

Donovan is right on. In HS and College all the coaches had the attitude that the black players couldn't handle the complexities like the white players. If the QB was black, he was treated differently. Philly is a tough place to play. Most of the fans are myopic and focused on Philly, and don't have clue what's going on in the bigger picture, and think it's all about them. I'm convinced that black QB's are treated and viewed differently than white QB's. I'm upset that many of the other players, black and white, aren't backing Donovan. I know this: there are several white QB's in the NFL that haven't had to put up with the junk on and off the field McNabb has, and nobody is calling them out. Read what Jason Whitlock of the KC Star wrote on this if you want more truth on this. Philly deserves the hippy lettuce toking Ricky Williams they wanted in the first place, not a class act like Donovan McNabb.
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- margeschott replied September 21, 2007
  
  Hippy lettuce. Chuckles. You know, I like Rick.
eagles2317 said September 20, 2007

Donovan, I'm behind you 100%. You are the best and deserve the city and media's respect for what a class-act you have been not only on the field, but off. I have nothing but respect for you and will be rooting for you to win a Superbowl with the Eagles or elsewhere! Best of luck in all that you do in your life.
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SavageLizard said September 20, 2007

I never really thought of you as a black quarterback until you brought it up, I just thought of you as a quarterback.
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gobuckeyes12 said September 20, 2007

I have to say that I am beginning to see race as a much larger issue than I did even six months ago. I guess that the Michael Vick case really was the first thing that did it for me. How that was an issue of race is beyond me, he was killing dogs. It is not like he was arrested for speeding and pulled over undeservedly. Now with Mcnabb, it raises another issue of race. I don't care what type of quarterback he is, line him up next to Peyton Manning in a 40 yard sprint, he is going to win. The same is true of Tom Brady, Brett Favre, and the majority of quarterbacks. I don't consider him a running quarterback, but it sure does not hurt that he can run. He referenced that black quarterbacks are asked to play other positions more oftern, and that might be true. But I remember when Heisman winner Eric Crouch was asked to move to safety when he was drafted. Quarterbacks with mobility are often asked to move positions when they arrive in the pros. Do you think that Peyton Manning has the speed to move to another position? What about Byron Leftwich? Three years ago, I could see Mcnabb having the issues he does. He is being criticized now because he is off to a bad start. Let's see in two months, when he has had some more time on his knee, how he is playing. Get the man a receiver, not a bunch of number two and three receivers, and see how he is playing. But don't tell me that the reason I criticize him is because he does not run enough and that I hold him to higher and different expectations than I do white quarterbacks. When he stops missing receivers by throwing bullets over their heads, I will stop criticizing him. As far as I can tell, this is basically the same group of players that Jeff Garcia led to the playoffs and a division crown. If he can do that, I am certain Donovan can as well.
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Patrick7 said September 20, 2007

Donovan you are a great guy, a role model for black quaterbacks and a good football player, but dude we can't keep dancing this same tired dance. You say that the media keeps bringing it back up but I have hbo and I saw that interview and what I saw was you being equally as minstrel as flavor flav. Stop blaming other people for your bad seasons. Yes racisim is still alive and kicking but dude look around, everyone that exels gets praise and if you fail you get scrutinized. But you gotta stop pulling the race card out of your pocket everytime you're asked a question about how the last season turned out. Focus on football and answer questions politically. You should have seen James browns face when you said black quarterbacks, he looked like he was thinking: damn race again? The reason Peyton, and Brady don't get hassled is cause they go out there and just win. All last last season analyst were saying Peyton couldn't win the big one and he went out there and beat some ass, and now what are they saying: he won't win two. See man people get cracked on, it happens, reguardless of color if you're not performing you'll hear it until you do something good enough to keep them quiet for a little while or you'll get replaced ask Byron Leftwich, David Carr, and Jake Plummer cause there is always another eager young guy just waiting for you to fuck up and you've been doing an excellent job of that so keep talking, Kevin Kolb is getting warmed up
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Field1314 said September 20, 2007

Jaworski's own daughter was crying and was taken out of the stadium by her mother because her dad was booed so bad. You have a weapon that has made you an elite quarterback in the league...and that weapon is that you are an intelligent QB and you have the ability to keep defenses on their heels with your legs. NOW YOUR COMPLAINING ABOUT A STEREOTYPE???? It's not a stereotype, it's an elite talent that you have. You have had some of the worst receivers in the leage to throw to...so we wanted to see you expand the offense and run the ball more when they are not open. You could be highlighter pink, black, white...i don't care, if you have a talent that we drafted and paid good money for....USE IT AND STOP MAKING IT ABOUT A STEREOTYPE!
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Superkavi said September 20, 2007

So should I apologize for being a hispanic? For being a successful hispanic? People like to think that racism doesnt exist anymore and when someone brings it up, everyone hops into defense mode,
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Rudeboy1086 said September 20, 2007

Just like the NFL problems, dont focus on the 1 % bad and ignore the 99% good. there are fans that appreciate what you do.
i think the media is run by satan..lol
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kingjutt said September 20, 2007

If McNabb Had a big time receiver every year that he played the game like the greats of the past, where do you think his numbers would be and how many more Super Bowl games would he have played in.
Management has put the guy in a bad position. McNabb aint perfect. He has had his screw ups too but he has been amazing in comparison to any other QB; especially without his weapons.
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kingjutt said September 20, 2007

Donovan. More than any other issue you need to address that you have NO HELP.
You are a good dude so you don't want to sell people out by saying that but the Coach/GM/ and Heckert are doing you a diservice by not giving you a stud receiver. YOU NEED A BIG TIME RECEIVER LIKE ALL OF THE OTHER TOP QB's. How long are you supposed to will it on you own? You can't. TO was a NUT. But you saw how good you were with him. Management needs to be blasted. They put you in horrible situations. Horrible. That said I don;t feel bad for millionaires so it is what it is but you need to have a talk with the guys upstairs making the calls. YOU ARE BEING SET UP TO FAIL
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hoagster said September 20, 2007

try getting rid of the ball quicker. you get criticized when you lose. you get praise when you win. shouldn't be that tough for a college graduate to figure out. ask ron jaworski what it's like to get booed. you have no clue pal. i have been an ardent supporter of yours since before your draft day debacle and continue to this day to support you. none of that matters. if you win the super bowl you will own the town. if you don't you will be a bust. live with it. now try hitting wide open recievers to win games.
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Iggleman said September 20, 2007

Donovan, I see it like this. Coaches like to win. In an effort to win they will (at all levels) put their best athlete at QB. If he happens to be a young African American player it matters not, as long as he wins. So the best athlete on the field is allowed to play QB. If he can't pass well; who cares (the coach thinks), he can run like the wind. This all begins in Pop Warner. So this young man progresses to the next level as a QB where he is again exploited for his athletic abilities. Who cares, the team is winning...

So now he reaches the highest level and looks to be a QB. The thing is he has never been molded into a great QB but he is instead a great athlete playing QB. Is this his fault; hell no. Suddenly the expectations are high and he has not been allowed to develop the skills necessary to succeed at the highest level because he has faced too much pressure to use his athletic ability to win.

I think I know what you are saying but I certainly can't be sure. This is what I believe to be true.

I am a life long Eagles fan and one who appreciates all that you have accomplished. I think you have done a great job with the talent that has surrounded you. I also know that if you had a game breaking wide receiver (for more than 1 year), you would already have the ring you deserve!
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mbeahn said September 20, 2007

Just fuel for the fire DMac. I watched Monday night. I fussed and cussed. Im a fan of you and the team. It is what it is right now. As for the comments.... I understand what you are saying and most people.....sans drama queen media types do too. You just keep doing what you do this Sunday. What I saw in the fourth quarter was inspiring. Keep working, its all going to come together. You, and this team, have been here before. Cheers.
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smkellner said September 20, 2007

well said #5, you should be proud of wht you have done for this team, I know I am
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teddy7575 said September 20, 2007

See ya later Dmac, sooner or later Philly always finds a way to get rid of its biggest sports stars, from Wilt to Cunninham to Barkly to Lindros to Iverson to T.O. and soon you, fans, team management and the press in Philly always seem to find a way to get rid of their best chance to get a championship to this loser of a town called Philly.
Good luck in whatever city you in up in next year and enjoy your Superbowl victory with that team!
(I'm thinking Chi-town). and if the fans here really think Kolb is going to get us that Lombardi trophy that better wake up.
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tr2527 said September 20, 2007

I think that Donovan has received a lot of unfair criticism since he was drafted. He has proven himself as a winner time after time. I don't know the reason why he takes so much criticism when it is apparent that the problem this year as every other year in recent memory (except for 2004) is the lack of top notch receivers. The only problem I have with Donovan's comments are the way he says US and THEM. That is doing the same thing the supposed racists are doing grouping everyone into THEM and US. I wish Donovan good luck the rest of the year.
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Eagles2007 said September 20, 2007

Coachrobe, what we're going to get is a QB who is more accurate and decisive. A QB who is far ahead of where McNabb was as a rookie. A QB who is a leader. We'll be a winning team without Donovan.
What we'll get will be similar to what we received last season without McNabb. We'll get playoff appearances, winning seasons, and a QB who isn't hyper-sensitive. A QB who doesn't need his Dad or Mom to tuck him in at night after reading him a nice fairy tale before bedtime. : )
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no5_rules said September 20, 2007

Donovan is courageous and principled in saying how he feels. I don't believe he's looking for sympathy or excuses as he obviously lives a blessed life. However the comments obviously have rubbed the country the wrong way(see ESPN poll) and hopefully Donovan won't interpret the country's negative response as racism. I think the average joe simply does not like to hear complaints from a mega-millionaire-superstar. Look at how Tiger handled Fuzzy Zoeller. He didn't whine about how he's treated at racist country clubs, he kicked his ass in every tournament and became the best in the world Tiger has made himself beyond reproach. But back on point, only No 5 has walked in his shoes, so let's accept how he feels, support our leader, and move on to winning some football games!
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Live4Eagles said September 20, 2007

You have nothing to apologize for. You have had to deal with more than your fair share of criticism, over the years. Some of that might be racism, however, I think a large part of what you have had to put up with has more to do with where you play than anything else.
The sports writers in Philly love to stir up trouble. Plus, I think a lot of Eagles fans want to win now at any cost and the way they sometimes behave, such as booing our own team, is inappropriate. I think a lot of the heat you feel has more to do with the fans' intense desire to win more than anything else.
Please keep in mind that many of us really do respect and value what you've done for our Eagles. Anyone who can remember what it was like before you were drafted, knows how you played a big part in turning this team around. Recently, the fans overwhelmingly voted for you as our "75th Anniversary Quarterback" so most of us fans do recognize that you are a QB. I've always admired the way you play on the field, as well as, the way you always conduct yourself with dignity off the field. Try to ignore the sportswriters comments and the negative comments that come from some fans. Most Eagles fans love you, support you, and really do appreciate what you've done for our team.
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sumfingidiot said September 20, 2007

Hey, Donovan. Even though I'm a Saints fan (maybe Aints this year), I've always been impressed with your talent in this league. In fact, I had you on my fantasy league last season, but that's neither here nor there.
Dude, say whatever the hell you want to say. You're not some show-boat jackoff like certain wide receivers in the NFL. You're a helluva a QB, and I do mean a passer, not a runner. :)
Say it with gusto, man. You're the star.
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btimsah said September 20, 2007

The Redskins simply have a better recieving core. Moss, Randel El, Cooley are all playmakers and difference makers. Eagles just don't have that right now. Also, Mccnabb looked hobbled and that hurt him big time. Get healthy then play! Oh and the Eagle fans are terrible. Andy Reid and Mcnabb have given them one of the best teams in the league for many years now. Year after year their in the playoffs and their booing them. I don't know why they'd want to play or coach there. Maybe the Eagles should confuse the race-baitors and sign Leftwhich.. Leftwhich once said he's not the slowest quarterback in the league, he's just the slowest black quarterback. Well, he is pretty slow. Ahem for a black quarterback...
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tacman said September 20, 2007

Donovan, I think that he is one if not the most under rated Q B in the game today, and as for sports writters.... there just looking to start something to write cause if they don t intrest the masses then, they don t get paid! So I wish they would leave races out of it but it is the way of the world today I guess. KEEP UP YOUR HEAD D.M. Jim T. aka TACMAN
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eagleman11 said September 20, 2007

Racism is ALIVE and Breathing..I see it everyday...DON has always held his tongue...I am glad he said what he had to say.....Philly fans are pushing away another great player...It is not Don's fault......Start Basket and Avant....they are much stronger....Curtis is just a slot guy always will be....Reggie Brown is a head case.....RUN THE BALL ......TONY HUNT and BUCK use WESTY when needed.....we have the biggest o line in FOOTBALL!!!!!!!!!!!! DUH MARTY M. get your head out of your @ss let the line man handle these bums this week and lets get a win!!!!!!!!!!! If you cannot see that them let me call the plays!!!!!!! DONOVAN PLEASE READ THIS TELL THEM GUYS ON THE LINE TO PUT IT IN GEAR AND GET MOVING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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- margeschott replied September 21, 2007
  
  Thats right ! Let THIS GUY call the plays ! he,he
KoyDetmer4MVP said September 20, 2007

Thanks for the clarification, Five. I can't pretend to fully understand the depths of racism these days as I've grown up a middle-class suburban white boy. But I'm not a fool and I know that we are not at a point of equality for the races yet and I don't think I will see it in my lifetime.

It's not like we are all engrained with expectations of each race when we are born, we simply have those thoughts hammered into our head by the people that surround us (whether it be family, schoolmates or co-workers) throughout our upbringings. And, as controversial as your answers may seem now, they are promoting healthy (at least I hope its healthy) discussion that might lead certain people to see things more clearly as they go through their lives. So I thank you for that.

If anybody really gets to the heart of the matter that you brought up, nobody can deny the truth behind it. The current state of the media is largely behind this. This is a large part of the reason I've grown sick of the media. I earned a college degree in Radio/Television/Film and as I got ready to graduate, I realized how sick and twisted the media world is and that it's something I don't want to be a part of. And this latest "story" is another reason why.

Now I have a degree that I don't want to use at all and life decisions to figure out but I'm so proud that I'm not allowing myself to go into such a terrible field that only fuels stereotypes and the dehumanizing of celebrities. The reason I enjoy this blog that you've created so much is that it makes you human again, after the media and talk radio has spent so much time trying to make you seem like an object or something that we should expect something out of.

Just keep being yourself, Don. I look forward to seeing the good things you could do for this world from your position after your football career has ended (hopefully a long time from now and still in Philadelphia). You're a great human being, which is much more important than being a great football player.
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wholegrain said September 20, 2007

Donovan, from a white person and simply a fan of football from Marc Bulger to you to whoever. What you said about scrutiny is totally true and stupid to debate. Sorry about the situation just show em how good you can be next week. You're my favorite QB in the league.
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Menace610215 said September 20, 2007

I do think that black QB's are treated different in the NFL. With that being said we the fans of the Philadelphia Eagles need to support Donovan McNabb. We are some of the most critical and obnoxious fans on the face of the earth. By us (the fans and media) as a whole making Donovan McNabb go out and prove himself year in and year out would be a cry of lunacy in any other city with a sports team aside for NY. I do agree that the QB position is one that takes a lot of the glory or blame win or lose, but I think we need to support Donovan McNabb and not boo the man when he is clearly not even at 75% as was stated. I think a lot of our offensive problems are not his fault for example when our wide outs are man pressed they retract back into the fetal position. I think the play calling wether it be marty m or andy reid is an atrocity. 1 screen play to Brian Westbrook in the first 3 quarters of the washington game are you kidding me. Way to help out your QB. I know Donovan has not had a stellar performance yet but it is only week two.
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calidave28 said September 20, 2007

Donovan expressed his feelings about being a black quarterback. He certainly has a right to feel that way and there's only a small minority in the whole world who has experienced what he has, so it's pretty harsh for the majority to judge his statements as right or wrong when he didn't say anything outlandish. This may help you empathize with Donovan's situation - think of a time when people didn't believe you could achieve something that you were striving for. From their perspective they are being realistic but from yours they are being critical.
Donovan just expressed his perspective in a reasonable manner and definitely has nothing to apologize for. In fact, I would say well done Mr. McNabb, you showed honesty and courage - two virtues that men need to display more often.
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eaglesfanbig5 said September 20, 2007

Hey Big 5,
Keep your head up. I have your back. The media is just trying to make a story out of nothing. I just wish that one day people would quit going after the good people in our society and focus on stopping the bad people. I'm your guy through and through and have no concerns about this team. Keep playing strong and you will lead us to the big dance.
-Chris
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ralessan said September 20, 2007

All I have to say is WOW. I don't get it...perhaps it's because I'm not you. Me, not being you, does not mean that I can not comment on something I'm witnessing. I am a fan of yours to start with. I believe that if I'm an Eagles fan who truly wants to see a championship - than you are our best shot. No one tries harder, is tougher, or is a better role model than you. These things however, show signs of damage that you must have suffered through something. You're a big boy, so, it still can not be about draft day, Rush Limbaugh, or the smattering of 'boo's' due to poor performance...can it?
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barretthead said September 20, 2007

i am a middle class suburban white male age 25, and i have to say that i agree with you Mr. McNabb and as always, you have shown while you are the man with the most class in the NFl, and high in the running for classiest world wide. i stand by you. i will cheer for you always, and hopefully that will be in philly for years to come.
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shadymatt515 said September 20, 2007

All Class Donovan. As a season ticket holder for the past 6 years I appreciate all you've done and will continue to do. Although we may occasionally boo, we still got your back 100%. Don't forget it.
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PaulN420 said September 20, 2007

Donovan is in a no-win situation. Somehow he's never a "true quarterback" because he's not white and then he's never "black enough" because he's not running all the time. I give him credit. He says what he thinks without the BS. I'm no Eagles fan, but I've always liked and respected McNabb.
He's right - black quarterbacks get scrutinized in ways that white quarterbacks don't. It's not always fair, but that's life. Should Donovan be quiet about it? Should he be so politically correct that he can't state the obvious? I don't think so. He's got my support.
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slickster said September 20, 2007

Why is HBO asking questions about race? Why is HBO trying stir up trouble.
Let McNabb play. If HBO wants to stir up trouble, go after the drug users!
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fifawc2006 said September 20, 2007

Great to see you have a blog man. While i can KIND of see where you're coming from there's just somethign nagging me that makes me a little saddened that it boiled down to race. Even though they asked the questions, you did answer honestly which is what we expect froma class-act like you. However it's just...I don't know. You have earned yourself a right to have an opinion because you are respected, and I think in this case I'll just have to agree to disagree.
I have always said that if I had kids and I needed a professional athlete for a babysitter, there would be one guy I'd want and that is you. You earned that from the way you carry yourself. I just pray that we can one day FINALLY move past race as a reason for anything.
When I have kids, I hope you're available. :)
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Timbo467 said September 20, 2007

Yeah, i agree about true fans always being there no matter if you woulda said this after the 0-2 start, it isnt your fault that JB asked you about that, you did what a real man does and you answered his question. You throw for 357 yards in the superbowl with next to nothing at reciever ( T.O. on a broken leg is nott a true threat) and you get called a choke. Thats ridiculous, im a huge eagles fan and i know that you cant win a superbowl unless all parts of the game are clicking, so keep your chin up and settle yourself down in the pocket, you look really nervous when you drop back to throw. I know its easy for me to say when i dont have 320 pound lineman bearing down on me. Do your thing and you will have a superbowl before you retire.
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wgreason said September 20, 2007

Donovan,
You are a man of great character and leadership. You are the reason I watch the NFL most Sundays. Your insight and knowledge about how African Americans are perceived and misunderstood (as quarterbacks and as people) inspire me to continue doing my own work to improve race relations.
Thank you for having the courage to stand up and make your voice heard. In a society where school segregation is now legal, state attorneys overcharge black youth with felonies, and black face parties multiply on college campuses, you have shed light on the expanding racism among all Americans.
Keep playing hard, keep speaking truth, and you will always have my respect.
Dr. Walter Greason, Ph.D.
www.myspace.com/urbanhistorian
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TWils000 said September 20, 2007

Donovan - Your blog comments are spot on. The fact that the media is making such a big deal over some your really very mild remarks demonstrates that race is an issue even while they claim it isn't. Truthfully, the sports media in Philadelphia, both print and electronic, is terrible, lame, and mean spirited. Maybe they have an inferiority complex because all of the good writers go to NY or DC or LA or Chicago. Some seem to think they are Pulitzer Prize material or on to the next Watergate. Please - they are sportswirters and broadcasters and entertainers. Parasites.
Anyway in addition to being the best Quarterback in Eagles history, thanks for being a man - you'll probably never know the good that you are doing.
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jbritz2 said September 20, 2007

Does anyone realize that any question about
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Purkmi said September 20, 2007

Let me start with the fact I'm an Eagles fan and don't think it is a big deal because I know Donovan is a good person. However, when you make a statement that you get criticized after you win a game and throw for 300 yards and don't qualify it by saying this.
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Eddie1979 said September 20, 2007

I thought the comments were unnecessary. I think the focus is and will always be on wins and losses. With your recent injuries, with falling short at the Super Bowl and short at the NFC Championships, criticism will always be around.
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SKYLAR said September 20, 2007

DONOVAN..... YOU ARE 110 % CORRECT...... YOU COULDN'T BE MORE TRUTHFUL..... THERE ALWAYS HAVE BEEN AND ALWAYS WILL
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delaney882000 said September 20, 2007

I believe that Donovan's assessment of the different lens that black quarterbacks are seen through is spot on.
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Dk1028 said September 20, 2007

^^^^^^^YOU SAID IT BRO (COACHROBE) COMMENT #49
DONOVAN, BRO I LOVE THE COWBOYS, BUT RIGHT NOW THIS AINT ABOUT SPORTS, ITS ABOUT BEING A MAN!!! A BLACK MAN IN A WHITE SOCIETY I.E THE JEANA 6(WHICH IS A BUNCH OF BULL)GOOGLE IT...... BUT THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH FOR TELLING IT LIKE IT IS BRO....A MAN COULD ALMOST GO CRAZY IN THIS WORLD TODAY, PEOPLE ON THE NEWS ACT LIKE THERE ISNT A WAR GOING ON AND BUSH ISNT TRYING TO BE A DICTATOR....THEY ACT LIKE THERE ARENT POOR AZZ PEOPLE IN THE U.S RIGHT NOW, FORGET IRAQ....AND OH YEAH REMEMBER KATRINA......THEY ACT LIKE WE DONT KNOW WHATS GOING ON, AND YOU HIT THE NAIL ON POINT BRO....I KNOW IM NOT CRAZY.....IM IN COLLEGE, I WORK AT A GREAT JOB, I HAVE WHITE FRIENDS AS WELL AS BLACK FRIENDS BUT ASK ME HOW MANY TIMES WHEN THEY THOUGHT I WASNT LISTENING I HEARD THE
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phillybilly said September 20, 2007

Get over it Donny
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thumbsdown said September 20, 2007

I sent you a message Mr. McNabb. My feeling on this issue are not appropriate for a public forum.
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- joyces replied September 21, 2007
  
  He is not the one that made it public. He just answered the question.
margeschott said September 20, 2007

Well, I actually liked the video of the press conference better because it gave me an opportunity to gather various impressions of McNabb all at the same time. I find that video to show -no safety net, no rehearsal- a certain ease with which McNabb conducted himself. (Reacting to, was it Sal Paolantonio?, for instants) I guess I am sayin he came across as genuine. Now. McNabb deserves a lot of credit. This man is in my mind a class act, from handling someone like Owens to someone like Iggles fans to handling the Kolb drafting to the injuries - right down to the sensationalistic and ill-timed 'tease' approach of the Gumbels of the world and their companies. I am just so sick of Whites telling Non-Whites anything from 'get over it' to 'youÂ´re getting paid' to 'well, why, your team has a track record for playing Black QBs', administering any advice as how to deal with a reality of any kind other than their own. I guess thats the point. If you cant follow a racial claim, you certainly shouldnt just believe it because a celeb said so, but - you do not have any business thumbing your nose at history as proven for centuries. A nice and casual fellow like McNabb should be able to help you here, should you need that much help. Thank you, Donovan McNabb. Go Ravens.
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margeschott said September 20, 2007

I also would like to recommend Jason WhitlockÂ´s bit on this whole issue. http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/7241878 Mike Freeman of sportsloine had a chance opposite a jerk like Gregg Doyel, but he blew it. Whitlock is a good narrator and made niiiiice points. I am enjoying this site !
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sparky19 said September 20, 2007

I admit that my first reaction to this was that you were playing the race card because of the start to the season. Thank you for setting me straight. You're points and views are accurate and I see no reason why they should not be addressed in exactly the fashion that you chose.... by talking about them. Hope you have a good season. Dave from Canada
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tamahouse said September 20, 2007

Mr. McNabb,
I'm not writing to defend your comments, to say they are either appropriate or not appropriate, but I will say that from my experience, what happens in the NFL in terms of organizational hierarchy is a microcosm of what happens in life.
A lot of opinions and stereotypes are shed behind closed doors, and this is a mere fact.
I will give you one example. I was in the elevator on a cruise in the Caribbean â€" people from all over the US were on this cruise. A gentleman was wearing a Titan's AFC Championship shirt. Another gentleman stated he too was from Tennessee and said we won't win a Super Bowl with his "kind" at QB. This was back in 2003 or so and Steve McNair was at the helm. This man went as far as to say that he doesn't have the smarts to lead this team. Now, I'm from the east coast, and how I interpret "his kind", means non-white. To me, this man's subtle reference is indicative of the thought process of many people. I can't determine if this is racism or not racism, an ignorant generalizations or not, or just regional opinion but its stuff I hear.
The gentleman with the Titan shirt, albeit maybe uncomfortable with the second man's remarks, agreed to some extent.
That's all I have to say. This was my experience with such a topic. One of many in terms of people's stereotypes, but an exact opinion on this particular issue. -- end
By the way Donovan, does Syracuse even have a football team anymore..... good luck BC'er 93
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reverend1975 said September 20, 2007

I didn't understand what you were trying to accomplish by making the statements you made. But after reading the Dana O'Neil article in today's Philly Daily News (http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/news_top/20070919_GRATING_EXPECTATIONS.html), I think get it. Until I read her article, I was more of the Paul Domowitch point of view (http://www.philly.com/philly/hp/sports/20070919_Paul_Domowitch___Numbers_are_there_in_black_and_white.html). I just wish you had explained it the way Dana did and avoided the bulk of this controversy, which is really about misunderstanding. It doesn't help your cause when people don't know what you're trying to say. Anyway, do everyone a favor and win this Sunday. 0-3 in this town is practically illegal.
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roachford26 said September 20, 2007

I appreciate a true african american coming out and detailing the struggle which is still going on, everyone on the blog please dont take offense to what I'm about to say but in all honesty AMERICA is racist. Whenever they get a chance to crucify anyone of african descent they take there shots he said something that was truthful but like all ways its looked at differently.
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- ExtremeRavens replied September 20, 2007
  
  What is a "true" African American?--Danielle
  - donwill replied September 21, 2007
    
    no such thing--- you are either african or american
eeeeek said September 20, 2007

D....Don't Do It.
You are correct in what you are saying...but we can see through it...i sense that you are done with philly and you are very cunningly bringing this stuff up to pave a smooth transition out...all I can say is..DON'T Do it. Let Andy father Klob somewhere else....Philly doesn't need either one of them and they can let Tom H. be the mother. Don't the org get in you way...Make some noise about not having a #1 reciever. Leave the Black QB thing....don't answer the question...let it go...just let go and get you knee healthy. Do Do IT...We love ya and want ya stay.
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mstearne said September 20, 2007

Go Donovan! You're absolutely right.
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JoeSal98 said September 20, 2007

I can't help but recall all the number "5" Jerseys on hundreds of people in the stadium during game days, and how popular you are with black and white patrons alike. This is football and you do yourself an injustice by implying that you are treated differently as a quarterback because you are black. I can honestly say that I have never considered your race when you performed poorly; I always blamed it on your ability. I am a fan and when the Eagles lose I call them bums and when they win I cheer them on. Like it or not there are a lot of us out there like this. We jump on and off the bandwagon. Are there people out there who hate you because you are black, absolutely, are there people who hate me because I am white ditto. You may not have meant it to sound as such but you make it seem like your whining and that there is not a fair playing field for black quarterbacks in the NFL. I have never taken the time to visit and read the Philadelphia Sunday Sun WEB site but I did today, and just like the Philadelphia Enquirer I saw opinions I totally agree with and others that I consider insulting and completely without merit. I understand that you were upset that J. Mondesire of the NAACP wrote a disparaging article about your football abilities. Is he suppose to say he thinks you're great because he's black and you're black? Give it a break; I thought you were more mature than that. The truth is we want a quarterback with fire in his belly that shows emotions on the field not in front of a press conference for some perceived grievance.
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wildebill said September 20, 2007

Your interview on HBO did more hurt than good for you both professionally and personally. That is do to the fact when questioned after the interview airing you could not give intelligent answers and/or examples. Given your standing in the community and the potential ramifications, I am surprised that you even took the interview opportunity. I wonder about the folks that are mentoring you and giving you advice. The longer term fallout from this could not have been thought out by your representatives. Be careful about comparing the way you handle interviews and the way your coach handles interviews, two very different situations. I wish you continued success and hope this issue has a short half-life.
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- joyces replied September 21, 2007
  
  I think it is virtuous of McNabb to even have a forum to be criticized by people like you. Get a grip. Does'nt he hae as much right as you to answer or respond to a statement or question. Actually, I think he was very tactful and professional.
Timsaunt said September 20, 2007

"Avid Phila sports fan was shocked to learn that Donavan is black after the HBO interview". I only saw his as a person who plays a hellavu game of football. Those fans or unfans who are questioning McNabb's comments are not,I hope, the majority but just the noisy few.
McNabb has every right to answer the questions, feel what he feels and say it like he sees it. To me,
he is a great quarterback for the Phila Eagles and a great person. He has always had my respect and enthusiasm as a player and he has certainly earned our respect. Passionate Phila Fans need to stop analyzing him and start being a fan win or lose. If those noisy fans knew anything they would be coaching or playing and not criticizing our Philadelphia Eagles. It's so unproductive to make our team feel unsupported by their fans because they lost two games or gave an interview (which I found to be enlightening). Mr. McNabb I will be routing for you all season win or lose because I am a faithful Phila Sports fan.
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super5forever said September 20, 2007

hi Don,
you should never have to apologize for your beliefs and your feelings as long as they are true feelings. i listened to a lot of shows and feel the media must be feeling a little guilty because they see the truth in what you say. i personally do not think race is an issue although i am white, living in a white world more or less. There are 11 men on the field for each and every play and i agree thay expect some of the quarterbacks to carry the team. Stay postive. This too shall pass. the good lord only gives all of us what we can handle. i sometimes say he is a poor judge of character but oh well, i am still here. as far as people wishing they could walk in your shoes, it might be fun to see what they would do if they were at their home field and hear the boos raining down. Philadelphia is not a great place to play and there is no home field advantage when your fans are firing up the opposing team with their classlessness. Donovan i truly admire the way you handle things and think you are one of the true role models for our youth. Stay yourself. On another note, you were kind enough to invite my Chad to your football camp the last two years. Chad is in a wheelchair and can not talk or speak but his day was truly made when he got to talk to you. You could have turned that into a big medial hype but you didn't. Like i said stay yourself and hope to see you in Phila for years to come,. Remember that which doesn't kill you, makes you stronger.
Chris and Chad
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Iggles84 said September 20, 2007

Just please don't give ESPN an excuse to call your words of opinion a controversey... and the reason behind having a losing season. You're a great QB D-MAC. Just put your leadership cap on and rally the Birds to another appearance in the superbowl!! You have the team to do it, so no excuses. Make it happen, and shut up all the critics, racist or not, about how great of a football player you really are. PLEASE!!
E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!!!!!
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- joyces replied September 21, 2007
  
  Amen to this. I don't trust ESPN at all. They are instigaters and perpetraters and I just plain do not trust this network. Even some of their own black sportscasters(not all) are hesitant to be honest on sensitive matters. I guess they don't want to jeopardize they high-paying salaries.
pgall33 said September 20, 2007

Hey D-Nickel, just stopping in to mention a few things.....
First, I know you are the best QB the Eagles can put on the field. I know you have "it". I am 27 and have lived through the WORST Eagles football teams and never got exposed to great consistent football until you came along. I want to thank you for the last 5 awesome years.
As far as 0-2, that's football. Not all the balls are caught, not all the passes perfect, not all the punts waived fair (hehe). The game can easily come down to a few plays, and those 4-5 plays the last two weeks went the other way. Oh well, season isn't over, keep truckin.
As far as this black/white stuff, its clear thats wasn't the purpose of the interview and its a shame it is such a prominent topic. I'm a skinny white dude from the burbs and never thought of you as a black QB until that Rush Limbaugh crap. I'm glad I don't operate like that. If you are small enough to judge someone by the color of their skin, then you're too ignorant to have a conversation with. Keep your head up and ignore (if you can) the relentless media. All of Philly has your back!
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Birdbatty said September 20, 2007

One only has to look at what is transpiring in Jena, La to understand that there are still racial divisions in our country.
Unfortunately, HBO felt the best way to sell their show was taking your honest assessment out of context and creating controversy where there was none. It's rather commonplace for media to behave in such a manner and it should make us uneasy about anything they say, do, or sell.
Thanks for everything you have done for our Eagles and the NFL. I look forward to watching you lead our guys deep into the playoffs once again.
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Ryan13 said September 20, 2007

This blog got the 0-2 part wrong about your comments, but the rest of the blog is pretty telling..
http://www.fannation.com/blogs/post/60584
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SLSkinsFan said September 20, 2007

I can't believe some of you people!! Leave this man alone already!! So he didn't back down and say what some people expected to hear....he didn't avoid being real. He spoke the truth about how he feels... you don't know what it's like to be in his position, being asked the questions he has been asked. I don't find anything wrong with his response personally, I am a 25 year old white female and can totally see where Mcnabb is coming from. If you want to give someone crap... talk to the interviewer who asked the question, which could be considered fueling the race issue, instead of talking down on McNabb. I must also say that I am glad to see some fans on here backing him up. I am a Redskins fan (yes, I am :) and was disgusted by the way that so many of the Philly fans acted during last weeks game...
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- teaman replied September 20, 2007
  
  So I guess you are happy with the way 5 played on Monday. I'M not.
- teaman replied September 20, 2007
  
  So I guess you are happy with the way 5 played on Monday. I'M not.
suziep713 said September 20, 2007

Do your thing DMac! Do your thing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Forget what everyone else says, it's all BS in the end anyways.
Much love from Houston, Texas!!!!!!!!!!!!!
E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!
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teamddb said September 20, 2007

I am pretty amazed at your interview. I have felt for years and expressed to several of my other Eagle fan friends that you were soft and lacked leadership. That was the reason I specified would prevent the Eagles from winning a Super Bowl with you at the helm. It was that sensitivity and weak-mindedness, and not your race, that made me feel you would never come through when it mattered. It was debated time and again and people consistently denied the fact that you were soft and asked how that was possible. With yet another cry for support and pity from the public I think it is now etched in stone.
All that being said, amongst the controversy you are being praised for your stance and have even thrusted yourself into the lead for "The Chad" award at www.frombangtoblog.blogspot.com. Congrats!
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ocdodgerblue said September 20, 2007

HBO's just trying to win their Emmy. If they really were that great of journalists they would have played the interview from start to finish and it would have held up on its own. Thanks for clearing everything up for us Mr McNabb. I think the fact that they put that one topic under the microscope and used it as their promo, goes to show that there's people out there, in this case, the news media, that do treat black quarterbacks in the NFL differently.

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kevin610 said September 20, 2007

Kudos to Donovan. He was asked a straight question and gave a straight answer. regardless of whether or not you agree with him, you have to respect the fact that he spoke his mind and has no apologies for how he feels. It is his opinion, and who is anyone else to say that is invalid. Eagles fans are behind you, #5. Keep working at getting 100% healthy, and good luck with the season. E-A-G-L-E-S, EAGLES!!!
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Kelspeed said September 20, 2007

We spend too much time and energy on skin color. Too many whites not wanting to see a person of color to succeed and too many blacks pulling for a black 'whatever' because he/she's 'one of our own'. The human species has a lot of evolving to do. If human evolution was a summit - I'd say we're still climbing on uphill side of primitive. Definitely an underachieving species on this planet considering our gifted mental abilities.

Pathetic how much weight the pigment of a person's skin holds in day to day subjects and decisions.
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teaman said September 20, 2007

You are QB #1 for the PHILADELPHIA Eagles! You have gone 7-13 in your last 20 starts.
Even if you, and the Eagles, had won the Super Bowl over the Cheating Pats, you would still be getting criticized. It's is just the nature of your position. All 53 players and coaches have to be on the same page to win. For the last 2 1/2 years you all have been on different chapters. The Eagles would not have won has many games has they have over the last 8 years if not for YOU. With that said, You need to become a better LEADER, between the lines, and stop looking over your shoulder. YOU are QB #1.
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AnotherDDBer said September 20, 2007

As a fellow member of Team DDB, I claim to once be a McNabb backer. Unfortunately, you're finesse play and inability to win in the clutch leaves you hopeless in the efforts to win back the city of Philadelphia. You're injured more than Penny Hardaway, never had a clue how to lead a receiver in stride, and you're sensitivity to EVERYTHING is something this city never has nor ever will tolerate. See Eric Lindros and Scott Rolen...and take their lead. I'd rather go 5-11 with a hopeful prospect in Kolb then watch you throw one more ball into the dirt underneath Reggie Brown's feet. You are overrated, and always have been, and now the world is starting to see that you are not, and may have never been an elite quarterback, just a product of an atrocious conference...and that bothers the hell out of you.
Just keeping it real chief.
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philadelphigga said September 20, 2007

D nice...Ima huge fan of yours and as an Eagle fan i think you are right up there with Randel as the top qb in Philly history. With all do respect, shut up, stop answering follow up questions to this ridiculous topic and win football games. Maybe your focus should be an healing the knee, not the problems of 'blackQB's'
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sjtuck said September 20, 2007

Donovan, the reason you get criticized, other then by Rush, has nothing to do with your race. Peyton manning got killed by the media because he couldn't win a playoff game. Then he finally won the super bowl and gets nothing but good publicity. Here's an idea: stop getting hurt, stop throwing the ball high or into the ground when you have an open receiver, stop getting hurt, stop losing (your record in the last year is pretty bad), and win a super bowl and no one will give you a hard time anymore. Oh yeah it might help if you weren't so sensitive and didn't take everything that is said as an offense.
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BroncosFan said September 20, 2007

Over his career, McNabb pass to run ratio is 8.18 to 1 (22504/2750). Vick's ratio is 2.98 to 1. Vick is a running quarterback. Jake Plummer's run to pass ratio is 15.79. Steve Young's ratio is 7.81. Elway's is 15.11. Fran Tarkenton's is 12.79. , Flutie was 9.01 (best years played in CFL). Plummer, Tarkenton & Elway were more scramblers than runners. Young ran and he was criticized for running so much. Heavily criticized.
Accuracy: NcNabb: 58.1%, Young 64.3%, Tark 57%, Elway 56.9%, Flutie 54.7%
Passer Rating: NcNabb: 84.8, Young 96.8, Tark 80.4%, Elway 79.9, Flutie 76.3
So, in essence, quit using the race card and play the game. Having lived in Denver during the Elway years, he took so much heat from the Media. Plummer, even when we went 8 games without a pick, everyone was saying, "just wait until he throws one. He'll do it because he is not accurate and he makes mistakes. You have a better passer rating and completion ratio than 2 HOF qb's. Of course they played more seasons but you have done well. Tired of the race card being used when the stats don't prove it. Maybe the Pats cheated on you also to win the SB. If you will, then people will forget about this issue. If not, then people will not bother to remember what you have accomplished but rather you chose to play the race card when you scolded Rush Limbaugh for using it.
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- joyces replied September 21, 2007
  
  Why is it called a race-card when we have dialogue pertaining to race. Why can't it be conversation from individual perspectives.
eaglesfan1107 said September 20, 2007

D-Mac i totally agree with you. you need to forget about those people who think it is ok to critizise race. peace out!
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philtheduck said September 20, 2007

Donovan - just WIN and everything will be fine.

When you make comments like this - it makes you sound like small child who is speaking before he thinks.

You are a grown man who is above this type of talk.

WIN and things will be fine.

Philly Fans are all about "what have you done lately" - accept it and move on.
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- macc10 replied September 21, 2007
  
  yea well im sure if u played qb ever u wuld understand wut the compliant is and that complaint is its more scrutinized wen a black player does sumthn bad then it is when a white player does the same especially at qb..all you hear is oh he's not winning oh he doesn't have it shut up he has the best winning percentage at qb,name a good WR he had except for T.O. and when he had him they went 2 the super bowl cum on get ur lines straight before u talk bout a winning black pro bowl caliber qb in the nfl..cause it is harder for black qb's and i have had my own experience dealing with that cause i play qb and im black
TammyinAtlanta said September 20, 2007

Speak, Donovan Speak!
I love the honesty, nobody can tell your story the way you can.
Hallellujah, tell it like it is.
Tammy in Atlanta
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mcbradys said September 20, 2007

it is probably true that flutie, young, montana, have probably not been told that they did not play the position "white enough", but that does not mean that you can address all black quarterbacks with a blanket statement about how black quarterbacks are treated differently, especially with no quotes, cites or research besides your own limited experience. I say limited, because you've only been in one franchise, and if you still have to make this race orientated, how about asking steve nash if he plays basketball "black enough".
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Taadow said September 20, 2007

Donovan - I'm a diehard Cowboy fan and I thought I would never say it, but I suuport what you said and I'm proud you did not back down from your comments. If anyone in the media wanted to validate your comments all they had to do was acknowledge the preferential treatment that Eli Manning gets from the media. Had it been an African American with his numbers year after year, he would be drummed out the league or regulated to Charlie Batch status.....I would bet that Batch's numbers are probalby better than Eli's. I'm a Major on active duty for the United States Army and your thoughts/situation reflect mine, we just wear different uniforms. Keep your head up, stay true to your word and good luck (as long as you are not playing the Cowboys.)
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kappa4life said September 20, 2007

As a Philadelphia Eagles Season Ticket holder I support you 100% Donovan! Being african american as I am and having played the quaterback position in high school and college I completely agree with your assesment. Everything will get back on track starting Sunday against Detroit. I got your back #5!
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diddy12004 said September 20, 2007

we love you d-mAc. lets go face the lions!!
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PhillyEagleFan said September 20, 2007

Donovan,
I'm not a member of the media, nor am I a football player, but I am a huge football, specifically and Eagles, fan. I'm also a huge fan of yours in particular. Simply from a standpoint of being on the outside looking in, I can see the truth in your comments. I personally commend you for your honesty in your answers in that interview. The media wants to turn this into a "controversy," when the fact is everyone knows that the controversy isn't in what you said, rather the fact that what you said IS true. For what it's worth, you will always have the support of myself and all of the fans out there. You know that Philly fans are tough, but don't think for a second that they don't appreciate your heart as well as your contributions to this team. Good luck this season, I'll be cheering for every play!
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TheyCallMeT said September 20, 2007

Did any of you read what Donovan wrote?? This interview was in August... he's not using the "race card." So for those of you who are saying "stop crying and play football", can you just shut your ignorant mouths. You say just play football, like the guy doesnt want to win. Obviously he wants to win... he wants to win more than you want him to win. Any athlete knows that losing sucks.

Donovan keep doin you. Keep givin it your all and the W's will come... Get back to that one game at a time thinking and win yourself a SB.
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sstevens said September 20, 2007

Big 5 no apology neccessary what u said is the truth. It is not only the truth in the sports world but in the real world as well. As blacks we are taught from an early age by our parents and society itself that you not only to be good but twice as good in your area of profession. If anyone in the this county thinks that race does not play a role in what we do and how we live they are sadly mistaken. Racism will always exist in the country until we as Americans have an open and honest discussion about race. Until then we will continue to be seperated by what divides us instead working together on the things that should unite us. Thanks Big 5 for the Honesty, its refreshing.
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Eagles2007 said September 20, 2007

DANA PENNETT O'NEIL - Philadelphia Daily News Reporter - Article about McNabb's press conference:

McNabb was less than eloquent yesterday as he tried to explain his position. Waffling between amusement, confusion and annoyance, he tried over and over again to explain his point, but, at times, seemed to contradict himself. At one point, McNabb said: "It's about winning football games here. It doesn't matter if you're black, white red, green or yellow. It's about winning football games."

Only minutes earlier he had said: "It's a lot different. The questions we have to answer. You wouldn't ask anybody else the questions we get asked. It's reality."

Phil Sheridan - Sports writer - Philadelphia Inquirer

The questions directed at McNabb were understandable: Aren't other quarterbacks criticized, too? What specific criticisms do you think are directed at you because you're African American? Do you regret saying what you did on HBO?

The problem with the questions was that they largely missed the point. Unfortunately, so did most of McNabb's answers. He wasn't able to clarify or defend his claims any better than he did in the original interview with HBO's James Brown.

Paul Domowitch - Philadelphia Daily News

THE CHIP on Donovan McNabb's shoulder always is there, held firmly in place by loving but misguided parents who long ago convinced their son that most white people aren't all that much different from those scum-sucking bigots who broke into the family's suburban home years ago and punched holes in their walls, urinated on their carpets and spray-painted the N-word on the side of their house.

Be careful, son, they warned. They are trying to hurt you. They are trying to bring you down. Because you're talented and rich and successful. Because you're black.

Judging from his curious comments in a taped interview on HBO's "Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel" that debuted last night, white people all look the same to McNabb. We all look like Rush Limbaugh.

If we criticize him for a poor performance, like the one Monday night against Washington or the one the week before against Green Bay, he feels it has much more to do with his skin color than his level of production.

McNabb has yet to explain exactly how black QB's receive more criticism than white QB's.
We're still waiting, Donovan. The floor is yours.

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- joyces replied September 21, 2007
  
  Why do all these reporters think that they are more intelligent than other people? I have to refrain from what I really want to say about all these comments. Are you guys programmed or are you guys really educated fools? If this is the case, you all will be waiting for a long time!
phylinghigh said September 20, 2007

Hey Super5, I hear a lot people pannicking about the team being 0:2 There are again people who call for yours and Andy's head, which is ridiculous. I would have loved to win those games, but hey can't do nothing about it now. I have full confidence in you, the coaching staff and the whole team and I know you all will turn things around. It's good that you stand by your comment and I get where you and also the philadelphia media is coming from, but all in all i think this is just blowing way out of proportion!
Hang in there, work through it and let's get a win on sunday.
Good luck,
Maurice, Berlin Germany
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Hot4McNabb said September 20, 2007

or

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid823496283/bclid932553089/bctid1184496151

Video Summary provided below
Jenny Carlson:
"...I may not know what its like to be a black quarterback but I do know what its like to be a female sportswriter. I am a minority in this business just like McNabb is in his, and ya know what? I feel like I have to do a little bit extra, I feel like I have to work more hours and write better stories and do better blogs and take better videos because my work will be scrutinized differently by you the viewers and the readers."
"I feel I'm more scrutinized then my male counterparts...those are the expectations that I live with"
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GETusJUST1 said September 20, 2007

This entire situation was blown way out of proportion and it really is a damn shame. The producers at HBO knew exactly what they were doing. ESPN feeds off things like this. I didnt see the piece but I know your main reason for going on the show wasnt to discuss race. Like any normal interviewee, you answered what was asked.
I hate the media. You have done so much for the fans of Philly, and no one can ever take that away. Thanks for 2001, and 2002, and 2003, and 2004, every year. You made us formiddable. Made us a real team who could beat anyone.
I'll be there on Sunday when we play Detroit. I have no worry that you will return to form with haste. Do it to em 5!
Peace
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joemoe73 said September 20, 2007

I'm happy you stood by your comments. As usual, we philadelphians can be over critical and hear things which were not said. However, remember that the vocal are not always the majority andthe vast majority of Philadelphians support you and appreciate all of your efforts.
Take us to the bowl!!
Joe from Fairmount
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mgdb83 said September 20, 2007

There's a double standard with white players and black players, always has been, and hopefully it will go away soon. Joe Namath wore fur coats on the sidelines, drank heavily and had notorious behavior, but people gave him a nickname and said "that's ol' Joe!" Now if Chad Johnson or Terrell Owens does anything flashy or cocky, he's torn apart by the media and the fans alike. There's no unlimited grace or reverence like there was for Namath or a million other white players like him.
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LAgirl said September 20, 2007

I'd like to echo what others have also said -- despite whatever critics are saying, you have a lot of people out there that support you both as a player and a person. I can't claim to be a lifelong fan, but the Eagles are and have been my only team. And you have been a big part of that. Some people are too narrowminded to understand the points you're trying to make, but know that there are others who appreciate what you're trying to say. And plenty of us that will support you on the field no matter what. Best of luck the rest of the season!
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Chand5Fan said September 20, 2007

Thanks so much for not backing down! Personally, I knew that you did the interview in the summer (I watch HBO) and knew it was unrelated to current media opinions of the team's record. I also appreciate that you stood up for yourself in a positive way, not being defensive about this and simply stating the facts. All you can hope is people will try to understand instead of interpreting your comments as negative. Every time I see you in the news, you continually prove you are of strong character, a critical thinker, sensitive to your fans, and a world-class athlete. I've been your fan since your first day in Philly and these adversities you face just solidify my loyalty to you. Hang in there and don't let the media get you down!
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GIJoe33 said September 20, 2007

I'm a rabid Eagles hater. I would much rather the Eagles have a quarterback who would foam at the mouth, have a "win-or-die" mentality, or just openly bash every other qb and team out there. Damn you Donovan, damn you, for being a great qb and an over-all nice guy. You need to leave Philly immediately and go to a team you can help win a championship with AND be appreciated for what you are.
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pmcdonald said September 20, 2007

Donovan, you are right on about the entire situation and it's funny that people are getting so bent out of shape about it. I mean do people actually live in the real world or they just think that double standards don't exist?

I know you and the Birds are struggling right now, but I have confidence that once you get your game legs and get Curtis, Brown and company moving that the Eagles will be back on top!

Hopefully you are here for the rest of your career! E-A-G-L-E-S..........EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!!
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cschulte78 said September 20, 2007

Chris, St Louis MO
I have been an Eagles fan for all my life. I have worn my green through the great years and the bad years. I have never been so proud to call the Eagles my team than the years when McNabb has been the leader of this team. He has played at an elite level since he came into the league and has done it with a true dignity and warrior mentality. He has dealt with a lot of controversies that were not of his doing. It is one thing for a player to have to answer media question after question about off the field instances when it is warranted, but what has McNabb ever done on or off the field to draw this amount of criticism. If Donovan says that he feels he has to do a little extra as a black QB in the NFL, who is anyone that is not in the same position qualified to argue with that point. First of all, he is talking about how HE feels. He is the one that gets analyzed by every blogger, sports TV personality, sports radio host in the country. Are his statements a strong message? Yes, and you know what it is refreshing. He has had to unfairly defend himself for judgements and comments made against him by individuals and groups of people. I am not African American, but I as a person was outraged by the comments made by the local NAACP chapter about McNabb. Donovan has done nothing but carry himself with class on and off the field. We too often try and tear down the good guys and rationalize the bad guys. How many shows have documented all the charity work McNabb has done? How many radio programs did a segment talking about how McNabb has fought his back on the field less than a full year after tearing up his knee? Didn't Carson Palmer get praised for returning to the field after his injury? How many people gave him a pass even though the Bengals didn't make it to the playoffs? How is his situation any different than McNabbs? Donovan feels as though he has to do more...to me the next question should be How hasn't he had to do more?
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sds1011 said September 20, 2007

Donovan - You are the best QB and person Philly has ever witnessed and been lucky enough to have for an Eagle. You are a class act and have never been, or created, problem off the field like so many other athletes and QBs in the game. I only hope that the majority of people realize this, and your honesty, when it comes to evaluating you and your actions. I'm white and you are right - I've have never heard Joe Montana, Steve Young, Dan Marino be asked what it's like being a "white" QB. I'm sorry you experienced racism when you were young and like you did and that you still have to deal with this after all you've done for Philly and the NFL. We should all be past this by now. Peace and bring it home for all of us!
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csonkaJR said September 20, 2007

Donovan has always been a class act, and a great role model. He's been targeted for such B.S. (Rush, T.O., NAACP, etc.) its incredible. Yet, he has handled all these situations like a man, and with class. I've been an Eagle fan since Jaws, and #5 is really the best QB we've ever had. This recent issue is way outta proportion. He was asked a question and he answered it truthfully. He wasn't whining/complaining, just stating what he has faced. Brush them haters off Donovan, and do what you do best Win.
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tscott said September 20, 2007

Once ago Donovan you have hit the nail on the head... as the title of your article states no apologies... there shouldn't have to be and those who are looking for one are way out of line... it is them that should apologize to you for misconstruing your words... for failing to recognize and accept truth and for accusing you of playing the race card when clearly that is not what you did! You answered the questions (truthfully and honestly) THAT YOU WERE ASKED~ it's that simple!

As I said in my previous post keep your head up and go forward... do not compromise yourself for anyone or anything!
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PhillyRapture said September 20, 2007

The fact that this topic has more responses in less than 24 hours than any other Mcnabb blog here shows me that the producers/editors knew exactly what they were doing. It is a shame because I held them to a much higher standard then trying to get easy ratings.
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fanatic said September 20, 2007

I'm so glad to see I'm not the only one who stands by Donovan. And I'm also glad I'm not the only one whose actually sick of this crap.
Donovan has gotten so much grief from this city (literally) since the day we drafted him. You want to criticize his play? Fine that's fair, but he gets ripped if he farts the wrong way.
D-Mac, don't listen to all the idiots out there and on the radio. Lot's of us still support you and always will. Even when you leave this organization. An organization that has become VERY VERY hard to cheer for.
I don't know what bothers me more, the arrogance of management, the fans, or the media. I peronsally cannot wait until you leave and I hope you light it up in another city.
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glaciers12 said September 20, 2007

Donovan this is a tough sports town (fair or unfair) hat's a fact. I used to sit at th vet and boo Vermeil and Jaworski even while they were en route to the Super Bowl. The fact is you are a tremendous athlete and I've always seen you as a class act. If you want out then I wish you well. I beleive the Eagles are a much better team with you. T.O. is an A.......e who will never win anything. If you hit Curtis on Monday night at the one yard line then all is well. Deal with it big guy "Can You Dig It"? Yeah I was at the kickoff party cheering my ass off for you and the others.
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AllTrac said September 21, 2007

McNabb is the greatest QB the Eagles have ever had PERIOD. The reason for the Redskins loss was the total of 3 run plays out of 5 trips to the redzone. This whole situation is nothing but the Eagle haters trying to tear the team down AGAIN. It's no different than when TO was here or any other season. They hate the Eagles and are trying to bring you down. Stay strong and know that the True EAGLE FANS want you to finish your career here and win that Bowl. GL this season.
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sydneywoowoo said September 21, 2007

i love you donavan mcnabb
and how u r sticking up for yourself
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stillscrambln said September 20, 2007

Donovan,
I spent a good portion of this afternoon tracking the comments posted in response to USATODAY's coverage of your comments. I can't believe how far off the mark people were in understanding your statement. Then again, this is America. For those who reacted negatively towards your opinion I offer this: Based on who is selected to play the quarterback position (with the preference being intelligence), which statement is the most damaging and which one would be more likely to be offered as an evaluation (criticism) for a black quarterback?

A) He needs to work on his pocket presence
B) He needs to learn how to read defenses

I would say B is the most damaging and it is most often directed toward a black quarterback. Comment B indrectly alludes to intelligence and is one that I still hear about Randall Cunningham today. I think this is where you were going with your comments on HBO. Finally, I agree whole heartedly with your statement about 'the balck quarterback having to do a little extra'. My father always told that in order to succeed in this world you have to be better than your white counterparts at whatever you chose to do in life. That was his reality and I've found that his advice has served me well. Peace to you and your family.
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glcatv said September 21, 2007

Your an awesome qb I don't care if your pink, purple, or green. No apologies needed.
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Pasc79 said September 21, 2007

I'm glad you didn't apologize. You were greeted into Philadelphia with negativity before you even got here. You were never really even given a chance by these fans. I have been a season ticket holder since 2000, the sole reason being that I wanted to witness your career here. You have given this city the best run of football in the history of the franchise. We have had legitimate Super Bowl aspirations every year since 2002. This is largely because of your abilities. You carried a mediocre at best offense for years. You have done it with EVERY defense EVERY week knowing that you were going to drop back and pass most of the time. You've done it with an interior offensive line that couldn't protect you. You have been failed. Failed by these fans, and failed by this organization. There has only been one WR in your whole career who could get separation, and he was only here for a season and a half, and we saw what you could do. Even without him in the playoffs, you were dominant. Peyton Manning is great, but would he produce the same if he hasn't had Marvin Harrison to throw to his whole career? Without Edgerrin James to keep defenses honest, and even carry the load for most of his career? Without an offensive line that kept him from being hit more than a handful of times a game? I don't think so. Peyton Manning, for all the talk of him not being able to win the big one, has he spent his whole career being judged by his home fans on EVERY throw? No. I actually think people in Philadelphia think that Manning, Brady and Palmer don't throw incompletions. I mean as "horrible" as you played on Monday night, you completed 60% of your passes. I don't want to be an apologist, but I have been dealing with these fans in the stadium the past 8 years and I honestly can't stand it. You are the best player this city has seen since Reggie White, and people don't see it, people don't appreciate it. It's pathetic. I do think a lot of it is due to race. People here can't stomach having a black QB. Ask Randall Cunningham. I don't think they judge all players based on race, I think it has to do with the QB being black. Brian Westbrook gets a free pass from these fans. He was the one who fumbled away the Giants game last year, but that loss was Donovan's fault. He dropped 3 passes week 1 against Green Bay, and it was forgotten by the next play. Speaking of Green Bay and free passes... how about Brett Favre?? Does anyone remember the playoff game the week before the Eagles lost to the Rams in the NFC Championship game?? Probably not, but Farve threw 5 or 6 interceptions and didn't give his team a chance to win that game. Funny how people still remember that the Eagles-Rams game ended on an interception by Donovan. They don't remember that Donovan willed that team back into that game or that Martz changed his game plan and stopped passing, and just ran Faulk the whole 3rd quarter because he needed to keep Donovan off the field. They also like to manipulate the fact that the interception that "ended" the game was on 4th and long when a throw HAD to be made. People also forget the playoff game in '03 against the Pack that they had won, but Favre threw the interception that led to the Eagles win. People don't talk about that with Favre, he is still revered, still everyones hero, a "gunslinger." He hasn't even been an elite player in at least 3 or 4 years. Do you think if Donovan threw over 20 interceptions in a season he would be called a gunslinger? I'm so tired of the double standard, I'm tired of this city blaming every loss on 5, I'm so tired of people judging on EVERY throw. It makes me sick. This guy is a great player, a good man, a good role model and yet he is surrounded by negativity, controversey and never given the proper credit or respect he deserves. This blog was titled "No Apologies" but there is going to be an apology. I apologize for all of the negativity this city and these fans have bestowed upon you. It is undeserved, unwarranted and asinine. Just know that there are people here who cherish every game you play here and wouldn't want anyone else in this league as their QB. Good Luck the rest of this season, I have faith that you will turn it around because you have ALWAYS gotten it done.
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Wingleton said September 21, 2007

I like pizza. Could you talk about your thoughts on pizza?
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- iLL_one77 replied September 29, 2007
  
  lol
MikeAllentown said September 21, 2007

Hey Donovan,
I met you two years ago in Puerto Rico and then again in Bethlehem during training camp. I have been an Eagles fan all my life. It is frustrating to see you go through what every star in Philly goes through...at some point the fans will turn on you and run you out of town. You are the best quarterback this city has ever seen. You are statistically in the top 3 or 4 quarterbacks in the league every year (when healthy), but yet the idiots in this city are just waiting for you to screw up so they can blast you. IMy hope is that you work through your injury and get back to the Donovan we all know is there and shut these people up. Don't let the jerks get to you. Just be who you are and concentrate on Football. Worst case scenario you will probably win a Super Bowl for another team! Good luck with your season. I hope you can get past this thing quickly and win some games!
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eaglephan73 said September 21, 2007

Hi Donovan, it's ANDREW BUTLER and I just wanted to say my mom and I are behind you 100%. You are the best quarterback PHILLY has had. WE luv Ya!!!
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tomchugh said September 21, 2007

Thank God for the sanity I am seeing on this site! Our sports talk radio and half the idots that call in are more than I can stand. I have not seen such an over-reaction to a man stating his truth. D Mac you are the best! Most of us out here in Philly land love you and are pulling for you and OUR team! Goi Birds!
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eaglefanjeff said September 21, 2007

Donovan doesn't need to apologize to anyone. As an accomplished, veteran player who has paid his dues, and then some (anyone remember the beatings he took from TO and Rush Limbaugh?). Unlike other overpaid, unproven, loudmouths (Pacman Jones), McNabb has earned the right to speak his mind because he knows when to speak, what forum to speak in, and when to hold his tongue. He is one of the classiest people in sports, has never thrown anyone under the bus (though he has had plenty of opportunities), and has steered clear of anything that would hurt the team...I say "good for you, 5". Its also refreshing to see someone stick by what they say...not backpedal and use the "misquoted" excuse (like Charles Barkley did with his OWN BOOK)
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tomcoffey said September 21, 2007

McNabb dropped way down in my respect meter, he is no leader. No real leader in today's world , sports or otherwise, would play the race card. If so they are totally irresponsible.
If a white basketball player came out with the same response he would be a racist.
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rebown said September 21, 2007

(What I want to focus on is "alternate thought processes". Thinking outside the box.)

I normally don't try to fight this battle, but this is getting absolutely ridiculous. I'm a white male, 29 years old in a wealthy, 99% white neighborhood where I live and grew up. I listen to both Philly sports radio stations all the time. I cant stand the anger that people have over Donovan and his view on this issue. How do you people live your lives? Take a look at yourself for a second, in all seriousness, and ask yourselves, "Why am I so angry or frustrated with this?". "Am I misunderstanding something here?" Not disagreeing, but ANGRY! I'm not sure how prevalent the double standard is on black QB'S, or even if Donovan is right or wrong. How would I know, number one? And two; I don't personally see it currently. Or at least I'm not aware of it. But like most racism, you don't usually see or realize it. Especially if you are white; Its subtle, but there. I myself, have realized that I have basically been racist in the passed, or should I say I thought or felt something that was actually a double standard because someone was black. I did this subconsciously. I didn't think i was racist but I was actually being one. I only really realized it after I had a class in college that dealt with these types of issues..... ((Lets Go Mountaineers! Donovan, I regret missing the one game where we beat you guys in Morgantown. I thought you were great and I was very glad that we drafted you. That booing has always been humiliating for me as a Philly fan. But just like you, I guess, I cant worry about what other people say.))
Anyway, as I was saying; if I could think one way about something, and then all of a sudden realize I was thinking completely wrong about it, I wondered what else I didn't see happening around me, and what else I was wrong about. Something unfortunately, I think the average white idiot doesn't do. Nothing to do with whether or not you went to college, at all. That just happened to be where I was when I first realized how I was acting.

I have plenty more things to say, and maybe there is a better way to get my point across then how I'm explaining it but to make a long story longer...
My point is this; There is a REASON you are SO affected/frustrated by this topic. Whether you realize it or not. Just listening to and reading what most of the white angry/frustrated men say about Donovan is, in my opinion, sad and pathetic yet a common behavior in societies in general. The logic in some of these "anti-Donovan/alleged former fan" posts, is almost comical. What would you do if you were in his shoes and you felt a certain way about something and it just so happened to be some important issue, whatever it may be, and you had a chance to tell the truth, regardless of whether it is something that really affects you or something you don't look sympathy because of , ONLY because someone asked you? Would all of you, "Some of us aren't as fortunate as you" tough guys actually sit there and say, "I'm not going to answer this because I don't think people will be happy and I'm just a hard working guy who has to fight to maintain an average life style"? NO YOU WOULDN'T. You have every right to, number one, answer a question, and number two, have an opinion. He is not preaching, he is not fighting, he is not crying. He is answering a question he was asked and giving his view. That's the great thing about this country. You can disagree. But if it makes you so frustrated and angry, you might want to take a cold hard look inside yourself and wonder why. I personally think that it, in some cases, is because people have a guilty conscience, lack of understanding, lack of being objective, inability to look outside the box, or lack of thinking capacity. We all have to remember that we are all a product of our environment. Donovan is, I am, and you are. What kind of environment did you grow up in? Were you around people who didn't like black people? Where you around blacks that were criminals? Whatever your environment may have been; we are all clouded by what we have experienced? That's all we know. And unfortunately most people don't look to understand more then what they may perceive, or feel they know. If they did, they would realize that not all blacks are alike, just like every other race, and they would realize that other people also have views based on their own experiences as well and that you may not see it the way they do because YOU WEREN'T THERE!

Lastly,
We are so fortunate to have Donavon. For MANY reasons. i.e. Bubby Brister, Ty Detmer, Jim McMahon etc. , etc.. Look at where we have been and look at where we have come. Then look at where you have been and what you have experienced, and who you have become. - Ethan
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PhillyFan1983 said September 21, 2007

Dear Mr. McNabb,
I hope this post doesn't get taken down and that you in fact read it. But I have completely lost all respect for you sir. I have tried my best to give you the benefit of the doubt in every controversy that you have faced but I can no longer do that. I am sure you are in a very difficult position and been unfairly judge by both the White population as well as the African American population. Nevertheless, your latest comments are ridiculous and most of all you are they are cowardly. After nine years of playing in Philadelphia you still don't get it. What is even more disheartening to see you make no effort to try and understand.
After nine years you are still moping and unable to forget getting booed on draft day. First of all that was the action of thirty sum individuals, not the opinion of the entire eagle nation. In addition they, were not booing you those individuals were booing the eagles and what they viewed as the Eagles Organization once again making the wrong choice. Never once was your skill in question. Please refresh my memory, were there not 70,000 plus fans at your very first preseason game chanting your name hoping you would be given the starter job over Doug Peterson. Then you foolishly came out and said you do not want to be known as the stereotypical black quarterback that runs. That is such an asinine statement, why deny one aspect of your game. Racism goes both ways, I applaud you for trying to become a better pocket passer it is admirable. However, your obsession to directly defy this stereotype, only quantifies that opinion. For those detractors that may say I am wrong I would ask to take a closer look at the definition of racism, " a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others. Mr. McNabb you are blessed with athleticism, abilities, and opportunities many of us can only dream about. Yet you have played right into the stereotype, you are an individual sir. Your ability to run is something that should be embraced making you the ultimate weapon, instead of deny it. By the way no offense but Warren Moon went much further to defy the African American running quarterback stereotype, not to mention the fact that he actually threw a pass in between his receivers numbers instead of skipping it off the ground to them.
Nevertheless, there were three NFC Championship in which your play could be described as pedestrian at best. Yet there were 70,000 plus every Sunday cheering you on. Finally, the Eagles organization decided to go for broke and get T.O. and Jevon Kearse. Once again your performance in the Super Bowl was lackluster, highlighted by you tossing your cookies on national television. Even after four teammates came out publicly saying it happened, you threw them under the buss denying it. Yet you were barely criticized by the fans, we gave you the benefit of the doubt, were thankful for your effort, and excited about the next season. But then there was TO, while many of his actions during that time were ridiculous it was no surprise and we all knew it was coming.
If you were the team leader you have claimed to be, you would have made every effort to support him and keep him here in Philly. But your ego got in the way, and please don't insult us by saying it didn't, there have been multiple reports saying otherwise. Besides, honesty has not been your strongest attribute. Your noncommittal stance over the TO contract, than miraculously change a week later when you publicly petition for Brain Westbrook to be resigned. An action that only insighted more division in the locker room. Once again, I feel that it is pertinate to state that I believe you are the cusp of greatness, but if you are the leader that you make a point to mention as often as possible put your ego aside for the good of the team as a whole. Because you are a quarterback, does not instantly make you a team leader. True leaders are always outspoken and are willing to sacrifice for the good of the group even when those opinions are not the most popular of vantage points. Yet your immaturity continued by your brother text messaging TO, followed by your father publicly coming out and calling the situation a, "BLACK ON BLACK CRIME." In a city with real issues such as this with an ever increasing murder rate. Comments and actions such as this are not only arrogant and void of any type of reality, make you look foolish and cowardly. A leader, for that matter an adult, defends their own opinions and action, instead of letting others making idiotically coming to their defense.
Lastly, we had last season. The season of the "SPORTS HERNIA," which somehow only hurt when your performance was terrible. Which ended by you quiting on the team and opting out for surgery when it appeared the season and team were hopeless. Unfortunately for you the 2006 season ended with you tearing your ACL, the unfortunate part was Jeff Garcia and his heart replaced you and the team turned it around and made it to the playoffs, much like A.J. Feely did in 2001. Once again your leadership and fear of competition should be noted when you sat idly by while the Eagles organization let Jeff Garcia and Dante Stallworth go, despite the available cap space and their public petitioning to stay here. Which brings us to the 2007 season, that has started off much like the last three you recovering from an injury blaming it for your poor play amidst another public controversy.
I truly want nothing but the best for you, your family, and the Eagles organization because in the end I am a fan. I only can hope you or someone close to reads this and takes my advice to heart. We love winners and that is all we desire, we are passionate, critical, but most of all loyal. While I am only 24, I have never seen a championship and yet I stay a loyal fan through all the embarrassment and public scrutiny we have endured. Maybe that is foolish on my part and defies logic, yet my story is no different than many other fans in this city. But when our own players criticize us for being rabid and passionate it is sinful. Furthermore, your comments about Philadelphia fans criticizing your coach for not saying anything and the criticizing you for your comments during the HBO interview are extremely pompous, arrogant, and most of all deplorable.
You once again are missing the essence of this city. As fans we ask three things from our athletes give it your all, be honest with us, and most importantly be accountable for your actions.
During the Rush Limbaugh incident, you made it clear that race should be irrelevant yet your latest comments say otherwise. No one faults you for your opinion, we fault you for your failure to clarify it on two separate occasion. There will always be racist or small minded people unwilling to change, that is a given but you are no better than them Mr. McNabb. Some of those people simply do not know better, if this is something you feel passionately about and are dedicated to seeing change use this as an opportunity to teach. Your failure on two separate occasions to address and clarify your comments with specific examples make your very genuine and important message meaningless. If you want people to learn and change you need to provide them with situations that they can relate too. Your comments are hallowed by justifying with examples of why you feel that way, you fail to enlighten those who are ignorant yet willing to learn and give credence to those who feel that you are playing the race card to divert attention from your poor play over the last few years. You have done nothing more than draw more attention to an already volatile situation in this country, as seen by what is going on in Jena, Louisiana. You open yourself up for further criticism playing the victim role on this blog with; "oh poor me feel bad for me, I am damned if I do. I am damed if I don't." You are an educated, well spoken, articulate, successful African American man in a position where you are given a pulpit to get your message across. In the end if you did not feel comfortable answering that question or with the criticism that has come as a result you should not have answered it. No one forced you to, I have seen you do it numerous times in your post game new conferences. Be accountable the victim role is inappropriate at best.
The reason for the anger in the fans, stems from the fact that you pick and choose when to think its most favorable you to make public comments. Simply put, "You are an unaccountable walking contradiction who has made every effort possible to not embrace the city." I implore you to speak to some of our African American leaders such as Sunny Hill, John Chaney, and Charles Barkley who have all transition from the sports arena into civil work. While they all have made had their own issues with the public. These three men are just a few examples of men who have stayed true to themselves, backed up their opinions, but most importantly actually put action behind their words and made a difference in our community. For that they are beloved by our community.
No one can ever claim to know how you feel, nor do we deny the fact that your venture to the NFL was daunting. However, you have made blanket statements about the Philadelphia fans because you haven't been here, nor have you made an effort to understand. After nine years playing here and at the age of thirty I would have thought by now you would have learned to be accountable for yourself and your actions. Please stop blaming us, your teammates, or your injuries for your ineptitude. You have been blessed with an unbelievable amount of God given ability. In a city that full of fans exuberant fans that ask nothing more than for you to give it your all. Whether or not you ever win a championship or not you have the opportunity to be idolized by this city, just look at your teammate Brian Dawkins.
I believe your time with the Eagles and with the Philadelphia fans may be coming to an end. But I challenge, if you are the leader you claim to be. Take the bull by the horns take control of this, there is no player that has more power on this team or job safety than you. Be accessible to the media, get in the face of your under-performing teammates, be honest with the fans if need be petition for the players you must have, and lastly accept the constructive criticism. Bouncing passes, over throwing, and looking past open receivers are justifiable reason to criticize and have nothing to do with the color of your skin. Accept who you are please stop running up and down the sidelines with that stupid grin when your winning and moping with a towel over your head when your losing.
Prove the nah-sayers wrong and take your place in immortality in the Philadelphia fans mind. GET THAT FIRE IN YOUR BELLY, SHUT UP, QUIT WHINING, AND PROVE THE DOUBTERS WRONG. And for that I guarantee you will see a side of the city you never thought existed and you will be exulted to adore for generations to come.
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rlombardo007 said September 21, 2007

dont worry about it McNabb your real fans are behind you 100% no matter what you say. Keep your head up and shut the critics up and whoop some lion ass. GO EAGLES!
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Gary05 said September 21, 2007

D Mac is eveything to the eagles.After he retires,theyll be right back where they were at the bottom.Do you (the so called eagle faithfull) remember Boby hoying,ala Kolb, how did that turn out.With out 5 the eagles are nothing forever a fan G Mac in Greenville,OH
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joyces said September 21, 2007

Wow! Now its time for some football. Love all you men in those football uniforms! Yummy, I love this sport!
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agnoggonga said September 21, 2007

Well put, Donovan. I appreciate your honesty. I happen to agree with you. In fact, I believe that Americans in general think that we're all "past" racial divisions. This is a dangerous view to hold. Thanks for being up front about your views on race, football, and how you perceive yourself in relation to the two. - Matt, Philly fan living in Brooklyn, NY
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paladin2002 said September 21, 2007

Philly sports writer Dana Pennett O'Neil had this to say about it. Her byline today said that, as a woman sports writer, she can relate to McNabb and the onus to "do something extra."

Excerpts:
"Women in sports writing stand out. I hate it, but there's no getting around it. I have been called out in locker rooms - one college player once yelled, "Lady coming,'' as if I was an incoming grenade - and endured nothing shy of a ritual hazing from a baseball player who shall remain nameless at my first major league game. And my personal favorite, a controversial college hoops coach once began an interview with me by saying, "You're too purdy to be a sports writer. You need a new profession.''

So as Donovan McNabb tried yesterday to explain his comments on HBO's "Real Sports,'' I understood what he was trying to say when he said as an African-American quarterback, he has to "do a little extra.'' I'll admit I cringed a little as I listened to the comments, wishing he could have left the genie in the bottle, but I got it.

Peyton Manning was criticized for never winning the big one before last year; Rex Grossman was criticized because . . . because he deserved it. But neither of them will ever tote the burden of being a white quarterback just as men in my profession will never be referred to as male sports writers. Black and female are different and therefore necessitate the adjective.

Years ago, another female sports writer told me to make sure I did my homework because every time I goofed, people would line up to refer to me as some dumb chick who doesn't know the difference between a Cover 2 and a bedcover.

McNabb told me in a telephone interview last night he got the same sort of advice.

"That's definitely how I was prepared,'' McNabb said as we exchanged war stories. "People told me when I came into this league to do the extra studying, to work out harder, prepare myself better. It's not so much, 'Yes sir, no sir,' but don't give anyone a reason to say that you're uncoachable, that you can't be trusted, that you want to do your own thing. The margin for error is different.''

Writer Phil Sheridan added:
First, it was clear from conversations among the assembled media that most of them didn't see the actual HBO segment. That's a shame, because context is important here. The piece focused on McNabb's background, on racism his family encountered upon moving into a mostly white Chicago suburb called Dolton, and on McNabb's dubious status as the most peculiarly criticized professional athlete in the country.

That's most peculiarly criticized, not most criticized. Many athletes take heat for their performances, for the things they say and do, for their off-the-field actions. Some of them bring heavy criticism on themselves with bad behavior or ignorant public comments.

McNabb has been a very good player and a model citizen throughout his Eagles career. And yet he has been at the center of strange episodes involving Rush Limbaugh, who said he was coddled by the media because he was black; Terrell Owens, who insinuated that McNabb was not black enough; and the head of the local NAACP, who wrote a screed essentially calling McNabb a traitor to his race.

If your knee-jerk reaction was that McNabb is completely off base, think again. All of those bizarre incidents were racially tinged. And no, Rex Grossman and Peyton Manning and Tom Brady never have to deal with that kind of nonsense.

The article ends with, "It comes down to this. I don't think McNabb is right in this case, but I understand why he feels the way he does. And that's kind of a shame in itself."

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- joyces replied September 22, 2007
  
  Whew! Finally, a journalist and a writer that have intelligent common sense. They can't teach that in college, you just have to be blessed with it. Thanks Dana and Phil for your commentary, can you guys give some wisdom to your colleagues?
paladin2002 said September 21, 2007

You're the man Donovan! You're a credit to the Eagles, and Philadelphia!
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Big_Pimpin said September 21, 2007

I just watched the interview on Real Sports and I have to say it was one of the most insightful and honest athlete interviews I have ever watched. I think it's irresponsible of some folks to make the negative comments without even taking the time to watch the interview - which I think enables people to better understand the full context of what Donovan's about both as a person and a black quarterback.
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squejay said September 21, 2007

I don't care what color you are. You are the best thing for the eagles. Born and raised around Philly I know the fans are tough. I think they are really tough on you because ,the past few years are the best chance for a super bowl , that we had in a long time. Keep your head up and stay tough.
Go Eagles,
EJ
P.S. I,ve never seen Tom, Carson, or Peyton scramble for 12 seconds, shed for tackles and complete a first down pass.
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margeschott said September 21, 2007

Reverend1975! Thanks for the link to Dna Pennett. A good read and I will look for more from her. Interestingly enough, that article states McNabb expected other QBs to seize the opportunity and comment on the situation. The feeds I have happened upon for example showed me Jason Campbell. HereÂ´s someone who distinguishes himself from McNabb in that he clearly avoids a personal statement, rather side stepping the issue and playing it safe by being non-committal.
Now, Campbell is seeing daylight as a starter and probably doesnt wanna/cant afford to make ripples in Danny-Land;-) McNabb on the other hand has earned his position of critique.
I find it unfortunate Campbell seemingly favors a business approach, but I can understand that too. I am looking forward to more published comments such as by Brian Dawkins who nut shelled an 'Amen' when asked to agree or disagree with McNabb. I guess that if the commenting players who take heart are older it says that the young ones bite their lip? So this seems to be a space for comment if not reserved then served up to veterans. I embrace men particularly from within the sport who know what they are talking about: 1, the situation a player is in, 2, the civic responsibility of support being of greater public value than the personal economics. The second point alone is a highly personal choice ccccccertain majorities I would suggest not very often are forced to make in this business. I appreciate multi-dimensional players like Donovan McNabb. That act of speaking up is a counter weight to Pacman, Vick, Tank, the non-suspension of Belichick, BillickÂ´s play calling, well u get my drift. Go Ravens.
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- joyces replied September 22, 2007
  
  I can understand why some of the newer, younger black quarterbacks may not want to respond. They just don't want to get into it a least not for right now because they already know the potential distraction of media exploitation and they want to focus on their game, team responsibilities and their coaches. I noticed how the media was trying to draw Vince Young into the mess. He didn't bite! Smart move Vince.
  - margeschott replied September 25, 2007
    
    Jason Campbell didnt 'bite', either. But he had to comment and not all was wishy-washy. There are different dynamics in each QB's situation. Who expected a pile on ?
ChicagoJake said September 21, 2007

I'm not the only one. In his "1st and 10" article the ESPN website, John Clayton states, "Grossman has Bears fans wondering whether the team will make a play for Donovan McNabb after the season in a trade -- if he's available". Let the Philly fans kick against the pricks, come to Chicago.

We'll give up Lance Briggs for you-Jake D.
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ChicagoJake said September 21, 2007

Will you come play in Chicago? Rex Grossman is alright, but we could win a Super Bowl with the best defense and special teams in the leage, along with an array of weapons on offense (Berrian, Olsen, HESTER). The Eagles are great, but it's time to come home to Chicago. In reference to Tommie Harris's comments to you earlier this year, there is always a bit of truth behind every bit of sarcasm. Isn't it time for an African-American quarterback to lead a team to the title?
Speakin' the truth from Boise, Idaho-Jake D.
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Eagles2007 said September 21, 2007

paladin2002 ,
You should read post #140. You failed to mention other excerpts in the Philadelphia newspapers. Your last post(175) "You're the man Donovan! You're a credit to the Eagles, and Philadelphia!" would seem to indicate that you are a fan of McNabb. If so, why did you sign up to Yardbarker on Friday, Sept. 21(today)?
Where have you been? Oh, I see. You signed up to share your thoughts on this topic. Except, you haven't given any thoughts of your own.
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- paladin2002 replied September 21, 2007
  
  to Eagles2007,
  
  Thanks for the response! I wasn't expecting anyone to respond directly to anything I wrote, so that was a surprise! I didn't mention the other excerpts, because post #140 (I just noticed, that was a previous post of yours) had covered that. Hence the reason why I added O'Neil and Sheridan's from yesterday. I could've added excerpts from others that I saw online, including Whitlock's and Doyel's, but I'll leave that up to the individual users. There's plenty of stuff out there......I don't think that any of us should feel afraid to post contradictory viewpoints, because the public's going to make their own individual judgements about what's right or wrong anyway. It's a good subject to discuss.
  
  Why didn't I sign up until today? Well...I think that's a pretty strange question, so allow me to ask, why does that matter to you? But truthfully, I already post on three Eagles fan sites anyway, and have done so for years (as long as we're on this subject, now I'm curious as to how many you post on, because I'm sure that you post on a couple...and how long have you posted here?), and one of the posters on those sites gave a link to the yardbarker site. I usually don't follow blogs anyway (though it's cool that DMac takes the time to respond to some individual posters), and didn't pay attention to how people posted comments on them. But this is a hot topic, isn't it? The post that I made here yesterday, was virtually identical to one of the posts that I was making on the other Eagles message boards yesterday. Just so you know.
  
  Message to all: if you have news excerpts, pro or con, that you think would be good material for this list, please post it! I'm sure that Donovan would encourage respectful dialogue among fans, especially on this subject, or on causes that he supports, etc.!
  
  Thanks for the reminder about sharing my thoughts on this subject! I should've just copied-and-pasted them from the other board.
  - I believe that stereotypes do exist with regard to black vs. white quarterbacks, including the old "running quarterback" stereotype. I think that the media tries to be objective, but they're still more likely to use the phrase "running quarterback" with regard to men like Donovan McNabb or Vince Young, as opposed to Jake Plummer or Steve Young, and that's wrong. If anything good comes out of this, hopefully the use of this stereotype will decrease in the future. You never know.
  - I think that Jason Campbell is sympathetic to McNabb's statements, because he said that he "used to" feel the same way, then said that now he views all quarterbacks the same, but then shifted and said that, as an African American quarterback, naturally he supports all African American quarterbacks. Why make that distinction? I think that he just doesn't want to rock the boat one way or the other.
  - another stereotype is that, maybe even unconsciously, there are still college coaches would see a talented black high school quarterback and incorrectly believe that he wouldn't make it as a quarterback, and should switch to another position. This happened with Donovan, and I wouldn't be surprised if it still happens today.
  - I do wish that this came up further back in the offseason, because the Eagles are 0-2 and need to concentrate on getting back to winning ballgames.
  - getting off topic, I think that some of our problems in the passing offense right now are related to DMac's knee not being 100%...he can't buy as much time to extend plays, might not be able to plant his feet and step into throws like he would like to, and because he lacks the mobility that most West-Coast QB's have (like a Steve Young or a Jeff Garcia), etc., other teams can drop LB's into coverage, keep a spy on Westbrook, and tighten down our offense. To make matters worse, our receivers are having a very hard time getting separation on the defenders. It makes me miss Donte Stallworth, although I still don't miss Terrell Owens, although he seems to be behaving himself more these days.
  - I think that it's better to discuss subjects like this, rather than "respectfully" not bring it up. I think that you remove a social injustice by exposing it, not by sweeping it under the rug, and eventually it does bring us all closer together, not separate us.
  
  How to compensate? More emphasis on the running game with Westy, C-Buck and Tony Hunt for starters. Use players coming out of the backfield to clear short-coverage defenders out and make room for other receivers. Get receivers going in motion instead of having them do a standing start, and then running into bump and run coverage. And, if his knee not being 100% really is the problem, or if Donovan is just ineffective for too long, for whatever reason, consider putting in Kolb until it's definitely 100% (normally I would've said AJ Feeley, but he has that broken hand). But Andy Reid has already voiced his support for DMac ("He'll get it done.")
  
  Take care of yourself, go EAGLES!
  - Eagles2007 replied September 21, 2007
    
    paladin2002 ,
    You certainly did share your thoughts. I respect your opinions. I, like you, just want the Eagles to start winning some games. How about a prediction? Eagles 27 Lions 13
    - paladin2002 replied September 21, 2007
      
      Respect yours too Eagles2007, even if we aren't all going to agree......I'll need some antacids to get through the game!
      Eagles 20 Lions 17
  - joyces replied September 22, 2007
    
    Me and my family are just regular football fans. We just enjoy the game but you really seem to know and understand the game. What do you think regarding the men that are suuposed to protect McNabb from getting sacked. Seems like there is lacking in this area. I also sometimes have an issue with some referees and how they strategically call penalties that subtley changes the momentum of the game, especially when a 10-yard penalty is called back on an otherwise impending touchdown. Especially, if the drive is against a black quarterback. Yes, and I too will be glad when this is no longer an issue and I can just enjoy the honest sport of football with no politics or corruption involved. Just talent, heart and skill!
Geneseo98 said September 21, 2007

Donovan - I just wanted to throw this out to you in hopes you read it... I've been a huge fan of yours going back to the 'Cuse and you made me an Eagles fan (I was the "N" in "McNabb" with my buddies in the stands at the Orange Bowl!)...
For what it's worth, I can honestly say I don't see you as black or white or whatever... just an honest class act who happens to play some awesome quarterback in the NFL. Throw out the issues and the drama and the ups and downs - just know that some of us are behind you - the man - no matter what.
Keep on working hard and making us proud. I know you'll have a great season and you'll once again prove the naysayers wrong! Thanks!
Nick Loucks
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ld1971 said September 21, 2007

Donovan,
In a world where everyone in the public eye is afraid to say what they really feel, I thought it was great to see someone as high profile as yourself, being comfortable and confident enough to give your honest feelings regarding JB's question and to actually stick by it and back it up!!! While I still do not understand why many have taken your statements to be controversial(nor do I understand why this is the response every time race is brought into any discussion), I think your statements are dead on accurate and I am glad that you expressed your opinion because it demonstrates how the racial divide is still with us. People are often simply more polite on the surface and therefore convince themselves racism is non-existent. The reaction in the mainstream media once again demonstrates that people are still uncomfortable having an open and honest dialogue about race. It is somewhat ironic that at the same time your "controversy" has been burning up the sports pages....down in Jena, Louisiana, there are thousands protesting the blatantly discriminatory and racist actions of the local DA for his prosection of six black students(of course the naysayers think that the actions of the white students down there were harmless pranks).

I also have found it laughable that ESPN tonight has been running the comments made by Vince Young and Jason Campbell--both of whom chose to avoid any sort of meaningful and direct answer(whatever that would have been) and instead gave the typical "polite" NFL response of "just trying for focus on winning and the "company line" that all quarterbacks regardless of race get criticized etc." First of all, they chose two of the youngest black qbs in the league who have accomplished nothing yet and obviously have a lot to lose given the pressure they are under not only as young, but also young black qbs. It is as if the network is on a mission to discredit and prove you wrong.
Anyone with half a brain should realize that Young and Campbell would want to take the high road--especially seeing the backlash you have recieved. Further, CAmpbell has just become the starting qb in DC and Young had his own problems in pre-season this year with the fight and showing up late for practice. The way the media reacted to that situation you would have thought his exit from the league was eminent.
I have never understood the criticism and the fact that you are always seem to be in the middle of some controversy through no fault of your own, ie Limbaugh, NAACP leader, TO, whatever. I also respect the way you have always seem let it just roll of your back and move on--I don't think i could have handled those situations with the same level of dignity and class.
Keep in mind what happened to Randall Cunningham, I remember his last years in Philly(I was in school at Temple University at the time), the boo-birds ran him out of town--the next year he was the MVP of the league in Minnesota. If the Philly fans and the Eagles organization do not get it together and show some respect, you may just have to be the MVP someplace else!!!! Sometimes the hard-headed got to feel to believe it!!!
Anyway, I have been a fan since your days at the 'Cuse--thanks for all of the great memories in the Dome and best of luck with the rest of the season!!!!
JD, Syracuse, NY
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KevinJ74 said September 21, 2007

I am rather curious myself as to the difference in criticism between black and white qb's. Last I checked which was a few hours ago, the bears won last week and Rex is still being thrown under the bus. So please for your own good and our benefit, please define this criticism that black qb's face that white qb's dont.
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- Steeladon replied September 21, 2007
  
  REX GROSSMAN and Donovan are on to different planets. Rex Grossman has quality WRs, and a great defense, and they run the ball in Chicago, So please stop comparing Rex and Don, when the Eagles cut Donovan because they think Kevin Kolb is the next savior Donovan will be in Chicago and will win a Super Bowl with the same cast that Rex had.
BigAlEagles said September 21, 2007

Donavan has a right to his opinion(although I disagree).
The fans love him when he wins and boos when they loose. I think sports fans are more worried about wins and looses than black and white. I think the media runs with this stuff. If you don't believe me, put on any sport station or channel.
The media makes you think the fans are interested in this stuff, but the fans are more interested in beating the Lions. GO EAGLES!
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03Prep said September 21, 2007

Donovan,
Do you think the type of scrutiny black QB's face is similar to that which white running backs do/would face?
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MoeEagles said September 21, 2007

Let your game be your "Umbrella" Philly loves you and supports you. Watch out Loins, Mcnabb is Back!!!!
The best quarterback Philly has ever had and the best sports role model Philly has ever had, period. Go Birds!!
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kwbarrett said September 21, 2007

Donovan,
You have been a model citizen in a profession where unfortunately, we don't see too many like you. My wife was a grad student at Syracuse when you were there and since then she has followed your career.
Anyone over the age of about 30, who has any sense of the history of the NFL and black QBs should know exactly what you meant by your comments. They don't know that Tony Dungy was in fact a top QB in the Big Ten, who went undrafted, not becaus he wasn't good enough. He had to change positions just to play in the NFL. They don't know how bad Jay Schraeder had to play before the Redskins would start Doug Williams. And they know nothing about Warren Moon's journey from Rose Bowl to the CFL and then the NFL. And let's not forget the most egregious case I can think of in Charlie Ward. How a Heisman Trophy award winning QB goes undrafted is astonishing. I'm just happy he was a two sport athlete as were you. You have nothing to apologize for. You simply voiced what many black men in sports and business deal with. We all have to do a little extra, not only for our bosses, but also for those that may come after us one day. Thanks for everything you do. God Bless.
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sharktooth2572 said September 21, 2007

Donovan,
Let me start off by saying that I am a Redskins fan! But, I am also a huge fan of yours. I have ALWAYS been impressed by your ability, (and frustrated too). They say you are a running Quarterback! Those critics are simple minded! Here is what I see from you, You go through your reads, if someone is open, then you throw it to them, if no one is open then you run for MANY yards! Your only other option would be to throw the ball away, HMMM let's compare, MANY yards...throw the ball away, seems simple to me.
I think your Character is awesome. You are what the game needs. I appreciate you as an athlete and as an ambassador of the game. I am truly sorry that you are criticized differently just because you are a black Quarterback. I am White but I have to agree with you. I am not saying that you are not respected or loved but you are treated different. Unfortunately, that's where we are in life. I wish I could change things but I can't. The only thing I can do is express my appreciation for you for the person and competetor you are. I have been treated different all my life too, but when you are good, jealous people try to break you down. We all will be criticized and looked at differently until we die. Only then will we be loved and adored equally as we walk around heaven... all day.
High regards Mac 5. Stay strong, Good luck, and stay the way you are.
Chuck
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cdiddy said September 21, 2007

Wow. I am not a blogger nor do I often visit sites like this one, but after hearing on a sports radio program about what this message entailed, I felt the need to check it out.
I am big Giants fan and as you all can gather, I HATE the Eagles and every other Philly team for that matter (just a part of being a fan and having a rivalry). But despite that, Donovan has always been one of, if not my favorite player around the NFL. This was in large part due to the fact that he always portrayed class, comradery and a love for the game: three of the greatest things about the sport of football. But reading this has left me disheartened and has made me question McNabb's credibility and integrity.
It's a damn shame that to this day race is still playing such a significant issue in hindering the lives of so many individuals. I place the blame on those that continue to LET it be an issue; meaning every race. In this instance, I blame both whites and blacks.
It's always the same story: The white man instigates the black man, the black man then blames the white man. An uproar ensues in the black community and the white community downplays it. And then, we start all over again. It is a never ending cycle that will never stop. And it is all just for attention or a distraction.
I honestly believe that most media reporters are idiots who NEED to ask these types of asanine questions to gain viewership or get a response of significant magnitude. I do not condone their actions whatsoever. But Donovan, come on man, I always looked as you as better than 'writing a blog' about something like this.
Granted. Black quarterbacks may deal with different issues than white quarterbacks, and Donovan obviously knows better than most of us due to the fact that he is in the huddle and he is out there answering questions every day. But Donovan, don't you realize that it is people like you that enables, that LETS the race card come in to play, that lets this go on and on and on? The more you let idiots (albeit reporters, news anchors, etc.) get to you, the more fuel you provide to their fire. And you have to understand that it starts a chain reaction that ultimately makes you sacrifice your credibility and integrity.
And as far as naivety is concerned, I believe you are the one that is being naive about the race card coming into play because of specific on-field performance. It is understood that you did this interview before the season started, but how can you NOT think that people would observe this as a distraction to your lack of success lately or your apparent issues with a new QB being drafted in Philadelphia? The mere fact of you writing this blog, signifies that you are portraying this issue as a distraction. You may not realize it, but it is exactly what you are doing.
Every reknowned sports player/celebrity gets criticized and questioned about things that don't necessarily have anything to do with anything. And I'll tell you right now, it's not always about blacks. Look at Pete Rose. The guy has been trying to get into the hall of fame forever, but since he was accused of gambling on baseball games, it will never happen. Rafeal Palmeiro lied straight into our faces about using steroids and has all but discredited his entire successful career. Bill Clinton had sexual relations with his intern and what the hell did that have to do with him being President? The fact of the matter is that criticism just happens and the best way to avoid it is to just shut up, especially when in the spotlight. In no way am I denouncing freedom of speech, but what I am saying is to be smart about how you exemplify that freedom.
I believe that race is a rampant issue in today's society, but I honestly believe it is a microcosm of so many other things that are wrong with society. But, the more that we continue to focus on issues like this, and the more that we LET it happen, the more we fall back into the never-ending cycle of bitching and moaning.
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margeschott said September 21, 2007

Post 165, you said it.
I actually caught myself droppin out off other boards peppered with hate, insults, racism and general disrespect. So, leafing over these posts here I share your sentiment and enjoy this site on this topic. Most boards I have visited in the past -team 'allegiance' aside- are poorly managed and neither insightful nor clever/funny.
Most on this page so far is good stuff from sincere people who appear to have given their words some thought. So thank you all, will you give yerselves a hand !
Post 167, you on the other hand just amaze me!
1, What jumps out at me is the irony of it all in that some people tell others how to deal with something they themselves DONT have to deal with. How to deal with a problem they dont encounter, a problem with many and long roots. Meaning, something they themselves dont have experience with.
Therefore, you simply dont really know (as in : are familiar with) what u are talking about. And you are talking about something that is a bigger problem for McNabb than it is for you, meaning : racism.
Maybe, just maybe you could try a little restraintin your search for leaders and step onto the clearing a little more slowly ? WeÂ´d love to see you there, bro.
2, 'Playing the race card' means (at least in my world) that doing so is done for effect and unnecessarily. As in, 'there were other options.' I dont think that (McNabb desiring an effect) is the case here. You would do well to distinguish a strategic luxury from a right. Namely, the right of someone to call their reality what it is. Even if it isnt yours. And also do well to distinguish that easyness about McNabb (answering a question) from a perceived ploy or strategically played 'card.'
Racism is an everyday issue. Unless youÂ´re JenaÂ´s on my mind, supposedly ordered speech therapy for Byron Leftwich, none of this is happy stuff. On sports boards, there are just sooooo many bigots. Wiseacres, short-sighted, loud-mouthed and foul-mouthed.
Its rare I look at one -ever- and leave it feeling that with most peopleÂ´s writings there is a common knowledge. Post 165 knowledege, not 167.
I like that.
PS - ESPN, FOX and HBO are just soooooo sensationalistic and really unprofessional sometimes its beyond 'bordering on' irresponsible. Bad, baaaad journalism. 'The flavor of the week','Next', stirring this pot, coaxing controversy, wearing thin and thinner... Its because of that I enjoy Dr ZÂ´s annual grading of the NFL game commentators. One of the best voices in the sport, that man. At least I think so. He stripped Tony Kornholsky liike a banana. Z is looking for info, not style. Not lookin for Tony.
I didnt really write that on YomKippur, did I ?! Durn. Well, happy holidays !
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Superkavi said September 21, 2007

Someone just mentioned that racism goes both ways. That is an asanine statement. Racism can only be experienced by those who are less fortunate. Racism is a term derived from the ill treatment of a race due to their color and social standing. Its funny, cuz I am pretty sure that african american slaves hated, despised, abhored their white owners, but no one calls them racist. Why? Because racism comes from people in power who discriminate those with out it. Stupidity is a disease that afflicts not just Philadelpha, but the better part of the country. Im tired of hearing white males bitch and moan about a black man getting a job. If whites hadnt made this mess to begin with, this wouldnt even be an issue. And I know people are gonna say that slavery ended hundreds of years ago, and that that excuse is played out. But it is becuase of slavery that we still fight about and argue over who is being mistreated today. These ideas of hatred and bigotry dont just go away. And to pretend that racism no longer exist just shows your ignorance. Regardless of what profession or career you take. Race will play a part. People like to bring up that playing qb is about winning and losing. and that all qbs face the same scrutiny. Funny, did anyone ask Manning to change positions because he was an athlete? Has Farve ever been told that he could be running back? Black Qbs are told in Pee Wee football that they would be better at other positions. its that simple. THis is the type of "perception" that Mcnabb was speaking about. Oh by the way, how many minority presidents have been in office? Oh yeah thats right, race isnt an issue, I forgot.
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mjg73084 said September 21, 2007

Donovan i have tremendous faith in your ability to lead this team. I have been a die hard eagles fan for my whole life and i remember the 3-13 days or when we would go on away games and couldnt even compete. Im proud to say i was the only person i knowwho wanted the eagles to draft you instead of a runningback at a time cause in order to get where all nfl teams want to go you need a quarterback to lead. I am forever grateful for what you have done for this organization and its important to know all true die-hards support you know and i know once we get this offense going nobody is gonna wanna face us. Good luck Sunday and lets get that W.
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mcnabbmcnow said September 21, 2007

Hi Donovan,
I have always been a big fan of yours. However, these latest comments have got me a little upset. First off, when you say you are receiving more criticism, isn't that extra criticism actually coming from other African American groups who insist you aren't black enough...such as the NAACP. That is extra criticism, but it's not racist, and if that is who you are talking about, it would be good to clarify.
Donovan, you may be 100% right on this, but to me, that isn't the point. As the quarterback on the Philadelphia Eagles football team, you are called on to be a leader, to be someone who brings players together. The quarterback has to be one of the most unselfish, loyal guys that everyone respects and gets along with. For that reason, for you to make divisive comments about race, particularily so close to the season, to me, is selfish and disappointing. It doesn't matter if you are right, you knew what the reaction to this was going to be. And now it will be another distraction to a team that doesn't need one. I'd just once like to see you apologize for anything...like throwing the ball to the 2 to LJ Smith in the Tampa game before the half. Instead of admitting you messed up and being mature, you stubbornly stated "I'd do the same play over again." Fans don't like that type of attitude.
Steve
Warminster, PA
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dp_coz said September 21, 2007

Race has become an issue because you made it one. Previous to this, I considered you a Quarterback (a damn good one at that), now we have to deal with yet another of these non-sensical separationist terms that should have never been coined - "Black Quarterback". ladies and Gentlemen, this is ridiculous.
I am a Philadelphian, and I wanted Rickey Williams in 1999 until Howard Eskin convinced some of us prior to the draft that a quality QB was the right way to go, and you have clearly shown that since. I have taken your side on all of the unfortunate controversies that have happened in your career for the following reasons:
-You were unfairly attacked
-You took the high road
-You were the bigger man in each of the controversies
-I didn't understand why you were being attacked
These controversies include the 1999 Draft, The Rush Limbaugh comments, the T.O. debacle and the unwarranted comments from Jerry Mondeshire.
I'm white (an evil whitey for those who want to know) and I'm highly critical of you for a few reasons:
-You're paid to take it
-You have the benefit AND responsibility of having the most Critical position on the roster
-Your play more than any other position affects the game
-Your ability can open the rusty gates shut since 1983 (Sixers)
Nowhere above is there anything about race, is there? I'm just as critical of you as I was with Ron Jaworski, Randall Cunningham, Rodney Peete, Bobby Hoying, Koy Detmer, Doug Peterson and whoever else they shoved in there before we lucked out in drafting you in '99. If you think the city is racist because of a certain few, than that's very unfortunate. Philadelphia was the home of one of the NFL's first great African-American Quarterbacks - Randall Cunningham. To many of us, we weren't focused on a 'black quarterback,' instead, we were amazed by his skill, his speed, and his ability to win games at a critical time. Many of us feel that although he never won a super bowl, Randall should bee in the hall of fame, unless the hall is too racist (Isave it for another arguement)
Donovan, please take the high road, just as you have before. Do what I do: When my daughter was born, I had the privlidge of filling out the forms. When the form asked for my 'race' I responded with "Human." Why can't the rest of us do the same? Promote yourself as a Quarterback, not a "black-quarterback"! And for the love of God, WIN! If you were to win a Super Bowl, Philadelphia would likely hold you in a higher Echelon than Dr. J, and to many of us, the Good Doctor is a hard one to top!
Feel free to argue me on this one! AIM: mccheeselives
Dan C.
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- NYCEagle replied September 21, 2007
  
  Well said, Dan!
Jackman said September 21, 2007

I'm just wondering, When were you a white quarterback so that you could make the distinction?
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- DrJohn replied September 21, 2007
  
  jackman, did you even read his entry? don't be ignorant and read the guy's words. he's asking questions about the type of inquiries he gets as a black quarterback. do any white quarterbacks ever get asked what its like to play as a "white' in the league? what does that have to do with whether he is white or black? someone's perspective has nothing to do with the actual questions that are asked. peyton never does get asked how it is to be white as a quarterback. it just doesn't happen. you know that. or maybe you don't. who knows.
DrJohn said September 21, 2007

probably one of the best responses to a touchy subject. nice articulation of the reality, donovan.

it's the same for every minority in this country. and, in case you're wondering, i'm a white 30 year old male from the midwest. bottom line, there is a subset of white people in this country who don't know what it is to be a minority...never faced unwarranted criticism or scrutiny...never have to go through what little things that probably would set them off (like being called out for being a different color...however small that might seem). i am behind donovan on this.
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Steeladon said September 21, 2007

I understand your plight. I am a black man who grew up in a strong family enviromnet, and while growing up I often was criticized by ignorant people from my own race because I was educated. I was often called oreo. I attended a predominatly white high school and was called nigger. So my own race criticized me as well as whites, and I think that is the problem that you are facing. The ignorant black community wants you to scramble around like a running back, while the white community thinks you can't read defenses. I applaud your patience and your restraint on this issue and the issue of the Eagles organiztation not putting you in a better situation to be as succesful as Peyton Manning, or Tom Brady. Those quaterbacks both have had weapons around them and a commitment to run the ball. Last week against Washington you threw the ball 46 times, If one were to read the stat sheet you would think the Eagles were down by 30 points. The year the organization acquired a top tier WR (Your friend and mine T.O.) You were probably the best QB in the game. So as a black man and a Philadelphian, I admire you as a person not just as a football player, because you had plenty of reason to act out like T.O. and scramble around like Mike Vick, but instead you go out every Sunday and try to break down the stereo-types about black QBs by going through your reads, checking down, and running when neccesary.
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joepa2k6 said September 21, 2007

Donovan I think it is great that you are willing to stand by your words. You are a true competitor, and I wish you the best of luck against Detroit. GO EAGLES!!
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Jackman said September 21, 2007

Dr. John, You are probably a proctologist. At the very least you have your nose well inserted into Donavan's butt.
Sniff-sniff, Boo-hoo, I make hundreds of millions of dollars and I haave to put up with people criticizing me about my blackness or lack thereof. Whine-whine.
Just play football. If you can't do that, retire!
Maybe Donovan and his Mom can just go and suck down some Chunky Soup.
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- joyces replied September 22, 2007
  
  Chunky soup sounds good just about right now.
- Ranchorich replied September 27, 2007
  
  I agree with Jackman - Your making the dough, your doing commercials, making plenty of cash in and outside of football. You'd have it a lot easier if you weren't in Philly, say like San Diego where you wouldn't find fans like you do in Philadelphia. But you are in Philly and it is a tough town that is the bed you made - Philadelphians wants a championship and are very passionate about it. That's the way it is. Get over it - Win, lose, quit but stop embarrassing yourself. You're extremely lucky to have fans like the ones I have read here today - count your blessings and shut up.
bump24 said September 21, 2007

Donovan Unfortunately you are not in the caliber of a Peyton Manning or Carson Palmer. The problem is that you came into the league as a scrambling quarterback who can deliver an accurate passing game. Over the years you have slowed and have become a less accurate passer along with countless injuries. Since you are crying about being a black quarterback in the NFL and how they are observed with so much scrutiny what do u think the NFL should do to create more positions for White NFL running backs. Hey don't say this question is stupid because a lot of white americans don't get it. You are the one who threw the race card out.
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hollywoodnick said September 21, 2007

Dear Donovan,
I wanted to let you know that I support you 100%. You bring up some great points. I wish you the best the rest of the year. I will follow you whatever team you are on. If Philly gets rid of you, shame on them. You are the greatest player in the team's history. PHilly fans are too moronic to understand that.
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andrea68 said September 21, 2007

Donovan
I applaud you for making your statement. Not only is this an issue for those of you who are our entertainers and super stars, but it is also an issue for those of us who work in several areas of society.
I work for a corporation and during my discussion wiht a boss aboiut my performance I was told, " Becasue you are black, you have to do more". This is what is expected from society and yet when we do more we are not compensated. If we make a mistake, we are taken to the mountain top and they shout it from the moutaintop that we did not succeed as if to say, "See, didn't I tell you not to let them in".
When will this end?
Drea
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- TeeRex replied September 21, 2007
  
  Andrea68, maybe you need to take a little more time whenever you write reports or whatever it is that you submit in written format to your boss. Your spelling or lack thereof is really terrible.
TeeRex said September 21, 2007

Donovan it's sad to think that players themselves are the ones who bring up racial issues when the fans, who pay the ticket prices and buy the team colors, are the ones paying for your salary. Most fans don't even take the time to worry or even notice the race or color of professional football players. It isn't until comments that are made like your interview on HBO that brings up and draws out the differences and causes problems among a team.

Yes, this is a problem that is not going to go away. We are suppose to be celebrating the 75th Anniversary of a football franchise and now this war of words and racial commentary has been brought up by a millionaire quarterback who has been hurt three out of th last five years. We prefer that you had not started until you were completely healthy if that is you excuse for the level of play that we have been subject to watching the past two weeks. We would much rather you allow someone else to take the snap and get well enough to come in and really produce. Maybe it is something you should think about and let the air deflate from your head, maybe then you will be able to think about this a little bit clearer and quit whining about comments and pressure. You never hear Rex Grossman crying whenever he is being degraded, and oh by the way he lead his tead to the Super Bowl last year. Also what about Eli Manning, you never hear about him whining. He lives in the shadows of his brother and has never lived up to the potential expected yet. Then we have Chad Pennington, New York is brutal on this guy but he never speaks out in public negatively about anything, or at least I haven't read or heard it.

You know, it all boils down to the fact that you are a football player in the gridiron spotlight. You have to be thick skinned at times when things aren't going so well. Seems like it is time to go put on the shoulder pads and helmet and close the mouth or else people will start to believe Philly would have been better off with TO and not you.

Regards,

TeeRex
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- joyces replied September 22, 2007
  
  Tee Rex, he did not bring it up.He was asked a question.
HawaiiEagle said September 21, 2007

DMac,
What bothers me most is that they asked young black qbs on how they feel about it-Vince Young, JaMarcus Russell, Tavaris Jackson, Jason Campbell, etc. These guys aren't affected by it as much because the older guys paved the way for them. Ask a guy like Steve McNair or Randall Cunningham or Doug Williams how they felt or feel. I bet you get a different response.
Eagle in the Pacific
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macc10 said September 21, 2007

hey i will put it like this im from sacramento ca and i played in high school a few years for a mainly white school for two years and when i switched to a more urban city school i noticed the diffrence between the athletes the coaching style and how i was looked at...Even tho i started both fresh and soph at a white school the things i had to go threw "your to big your not fast enough and was 1 of the 6 black players on the team" but i was trying to play qb so it was a whole diffrent look,,how i wuz treated in certain situations not given a good oppurtunity 2 show my skills when i dominated clearly but had to go through practice as back up but started they gave the only kids so many more oppurtunities to try 2 became better than me but they new it wouldnt happen cuz they did not have my athletic skills or my arm..they think all black kids should b a running bacc or wr,......NO qb"s come from college every year played all years n college but get switched 2 wr or rb or ss and thats because they believe that we cannot perform before they even get there people place them at a diffrent position already cuz there so fast...and thats not the correct way...now tell me this trent edward played at stanford for 4 years he won a total of 4 games in 4 years he was drafted by the bills..he has a lil athletic ability average arm but he supposed to be so good..ok now troy smith black male from inner city went to ohio state one of the best schools u can go lay for,he not only won the heisman trophy he won games he threw for 30 tds and 6 int his junior year he threw 16 tds and 4 int in both years he threw over 2200junior year and senior year 2500..he lost 2 games his career at ohio state....they diff is they say trent edwards had it all height arm size and intelligence appairently he didnt because he only won 4 games his whole career ..now they say troy smith 2 short not enough arm and doesnt have the ability 2 perform as a starter in the nfl...lol..ha he only lost 2 times in two years won a heisman trophy won his confrence two years n a row cum on give credit 2 black qb's ther are better period..its proven look at mcnabbs winning percentage the best out of all qb's in the nfl and he is black...like u already know if we had more oppurtunity and a better chance 2 show instead of jus gettn switched cuz 2 fast and not big enuff wut is that black qb's are playmakers and thats wut u need behind center no matter how big how slow how fast but cuz were black we have 2 be perfect in all categories fast big arm great football mind good size if not and your black there not gunna give u a chance thats not right because,,its been shown in college football and nfl what these black qb's do the white cannot seem 2 do it the same way..and in the future there will be more black qb's n the superbowl and they will be more 2 win when they start givin a fair chance...period..thats why mcnabb has the best percentage of winning games we dominate and win more and make more plays hands down period why do u think there are so many blacks n the league compared to white...if u can think of all the great running backs in the leauge there are black..all the great wr's all the great db's all the skill positions except qb why is that cause they wont give us a chance if we dominate the main position in the game let us dominate the main point and main position and they dnt wunt us 2 get that much control period they dnt wunt us 2 get that oppurtunity period.....
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- joyces replied September 22, 2007
  
  Well said Macc10, I could not have expressed it better. I miss watching Michael and Marcus Vick play quarterback position evenmore now. Can you imagine the dynamics of the sport with those two demonstrating their athletic abilities on the football field. God is no respect-of person. Give everyone an opportunity. There is enough blessings for everyone!
Eagles2007 said September 21, 2007

Jason Campbell Disagrees with McNabb:

The Washington Times reports responding to comments by Eagles QB Donovan McNabb that black NFL quarterbacks are held to a higher standard than their white colleagues, Redskins QB Jason Campbell said yesterday he hasn't found that to be the case. "Early in my career in college, I felt like people looked at me differently and expected a lot more," said Campbell, the Washington Redskins' starter since November. "I felt I had to do a little extra. At that point, I did feel that way. I don't feel that way now in the NFL."

In an HBO interview first aired Tuesday, McNabb, the longtime Philadelphia Eagles franchise player, said black quarterbacks "have to do a little bit extra" because there are so few starting at the position, adding, "people didn't want us to play this position."

McNabb and Campbell are two of six black starting quarterbacks in the NFL, joining Baltimore QB Steve McNair, Minnesota QB Tarvaris Jackson, Jacksonville QB David Garrard and Tennessee QB Vince Young.

Even in a winning performance, McNabb said people will say: "Oh, he could have made this throw here. We would have scored more points if he would have done this." McNabb said Indianapolis QB Peyton Manning and Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer aren't held to the same standard as black quarterbacks.

Campbell has long admired McNabb, and he outplayed the veteran in the Redskins' 20-12 win Monday night in Philadelphia.

"That's his opinion, and as an African-American quarterback, I have to support other African-American quarterbacks," Campbell said.

"But it's something I can't get caught up in. I look at all quarterbacks as the same. I support every guy who's playing the position. It's the hardest position to play in professional sports, and you get graded differently than any other position on the field. Nine times out of 10 the ball is in your hands, so everybody is watching you. Since you're in the spotlight, the mistakes get recognized. You need thick skin and a short memory."
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Gbones said September 20, 2007

D nice...Ima huge fan of yours and as an Eagle fan i think you are right up there with Randel as the top qb in Philly history. With all do respect, shut up, stop answering follow up questions to this ridiculous topic and win football games. Maybe your focus should be an healing the knee, not the problems of 'blackQB's'
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Up2NoGood said September 20, 2007

could it be that you are an over-rated QB that is looked at as a superstar? Look at you numbers, without rushing, they are the same as Brian Griese. Would you say he is great? Get off you high horse, you have never been that good, mediocre at best.
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BigFatDave said September 21, 2007

Super 5, I'm praying that God gives you the strength to get through all this noise. Most Philly fans DO love you and what you do.
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tsadeek712 said September 21, 2007

THIS COUNTRY HAS A LONG HISTORY OF GROSS UNFAIRNESS TOWARDS BLACK PEOPLE PERIOD. IT IS ROOTED IN IRRATIONALITY AND BIGOTRY. IF MCNABB HAD WON 4 SUPERPOWLS BY NOW FOR PHILLIDELPHIA THEIR IS A CERTAIN PREJUDICED PERCENTAGE OF THE EAGLES FAN BASE THAT WOULD ONLY HATE HIM MORE. I HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO THE RADIO SPORTS-TALK SHOW HOSTS HERE IN HOUSTON. TELL ME HOW TIMES HAVE CHANGED AND NOW BLACK QB'S ARE TREATED JUST LIKE WHITE ONES. WHILE I WATCH THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE BOARD BUSSES HEADED TO JENA LOUISIANA TO PROTEST PREJUDICED BEHAVIOR. Black teens sat under the "WHITE TREE" in Jenna, so the white students responded by hanging nooses from the tree. ALSO READ UP ON THE BLACK LADY IN WEST VIRGINIA WHO WAS KIDNAPPED, TORTURED, AND RAPED FOR A WEEK BY A GROUP OF WHITES. THE RACIAL SLURS THEY USED TO ADDRESS HER DURING THIS TIME REVEAL THEIR MOTIVATION. SO AM I TO BELEIVE THAT BIGOTRY LEADS PEOPLE TO SUCH EXTREME THINGS YET THESE SAME ATTITUDES WOULD NEVER CAUSE SOMEONE TO CALL INTO A SPORTS RADIO SHOW AND MAKE SOME VENOMOUS COMMENTS ABOUT MCNABB. OR WRITE IN A MORE CRITICAL NATURE ABOUT MCNABB IN THEIR NEWSPAPER OR MAGAZINE SPORTS ARTICLES. THAT'S RIGHT, I FORGOT RACISTS DON'T EXIST IN AMERICA ANY MORE. AND THEY DEFINANTLY CAN'T GET A JOB IN AMERICA. AND CERTAINLY THEY DON'T LIKE FOOTBALL. AND OF COURSE THERE ARE NO RACIST EAGLES FANS OR RACIST MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA WHO WOULD FIND A WAY TO BE CRITICAL OF MCNABB NO MATTER WHAT HE DOES. YEAH RIGHT. I LIVE IN THE CITY WHERE WARREN MOONS WIFE WAS CALLED A "NIGGER" IN THE ASTRODOME STANDS DURING THE GAME (as reported by a prominent WHITE houston sportswriter [john mclane]. AND SHE HAD THEIR CHILDREN WITH HER. VINCE YOUNG (also a houston native) DOSEN'T HAVE A CLUE. I LIKE HIS HEART ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT HE IS NIEVE TO HIS SURROUNDINGS IF HE REALLY BELEIVES WHAT HE SAID. BUT ALAS HE IS YOUNG. STAND STRONG MCNABB. REALITY NEEDS YOU.
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Larkinater said September 21, 2007

I could careless about this and I know a lot of Philadelphia feels the same. Just go out there and play the best football you can play. Do what you do best. You are an amazing running QB. I remember watching you go 1 minute 13 seconds against the cowboys in a scramble. Forget the haters. Forget this nonsense. Play football.
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HaloChaos said September 21, 2007

First, I think its pretty awesome that I get to directly respond to something written by McNabb himself. I gotta say DMac, I respect you hell of alot more since I found out that you don't only have a blog, but you also respond to some things via YouTube. Completely blew my mind, and I gotta say this as well - Keep speaking your mind. Just because you are "Rich" and a Major sports figure doesn't mean you have to be silent. By all means, the you have as much right to speak as I do.

That said:

I'm am Eagles fan, always has been always will be. I remember Randall and Fred Barnett, getting destroyed by the Cowboys in the '90ies, Rich Cotite, Ray Rhodes, Rodney Peete, the Detmer Brothers, and all of that. I'm born and raised in Philly, and one of those long suffering fans hoping for a SB one day (You were 3 points away! Dang it!)

Anyway, the whole HBO thing. When I first saw it, I disagreed completely. I actually agreed with Rush a little bit about Black QBs being overhyped in the Media. A LITTLE BIT.

My example is Michael Vick. I do not believe he is a good QB on the Pro Level (my mere opinion, I understand I do not play sports well and acknowledge that I suck at football, espically QB :P)
Michael Vick is a good Running Back, but I do not believe hes a very good QB. I'll give him that he lead his team to one NFC champ game, but I believe that was more the Falcons Defense and Running Game then it was Michael Vick's throwing ability. The Media overhyped him because he was black, I believe.

That said, when you said what you said on HBO, I disagreed. However I've had time to think, and I've listen to you explain it in more detail, and heres what I think:

I agree with you, and I'll say it here plainly. People look at Black QB's are running QBs. Thats the first thing they think when they see a Black man under center. They don't expect the Best TD to INT ratio in the history of the Eagles (and the NFL? Not sure). They don't expect the Cardinals game, when you threw 4 TD's on a broken leg (Running QB on a broken leg? Come on). People on like ESPN were calling you a Running QB at times, and its the stuff you are talking about. They cover it by that language of "running QB" and "Pocket Passer".

They never call a white QB a Running QB. It wasn't that they judge Black QB's more harshly in my opinion, its that they judge Black and White QB's DIFFERENTLY. Thats the racism element in all of this.

So now I agree with you. And I think you were just.. answering the question that was presented to you, you know? More like a "Yeah of course racism exists" kind of deal, but I don't think you let it get you down too much. If you do you shouldn't.

Play the game like you know how to play the game. Play the game that gives you the best chances of winning. Honestly, I think you are at your best when you throw from the run, of course you can't do that every play.

Dont let the people get you down, do what you gotta do.

PS - I didnt boo you on Draft Day, we needed a QB and had plenty of RBs! I am glad you came to Philly.. and don't take us too personally. We are fans, and we are a tough croud. Usually our boos are for the team as a whole, not just one person.. hell.. most of the Boo's are for Andy Ried.

PSS - Oh, and get healthy soon, we need you back at 100%! Side Question, is the injury part of the reason you haven't been throwing the ball all too well in the first two games?
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simplechaos said September 21, 2007

Mr. McNabb:
You do't owe any apologies. Only those who worry about race, wil be the only ones to worry about what was said and I am speaking from the "white" race, if you will. Also I think it is important for you to know that even though I am a Detroit Fan, I am also a McNabb fan. Just do what you do. The football world and all it's fans already knows what you are capable of. You have nothing to prove other than you are trying to get back to healthy. If Philly doesn't want you, we will be happy to take you in Detroit. Although it may be difficult because I am also a Kitna fan, but we can work on that... Good Luck and Keep your head up, I'll be cheering
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clarker said September 22, 2007

Personally I feel that these comments are correct. As a white person I feel that Black QB's are perceived different and face more criticism. As a black QB they seem to be labeled as
'running QB's and thats an unfair stereotype. I also feel that he wasnt saying white people hold Black QB's to a higher standard. Case in Point when the leader of the NAACP criticized Donovan for not running more. If he was a white QB nothing would have been said.
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Jtoddy25 said September 22, 2007

Man what a big waste of time this week. We need to be focused on Detroit. I admit I thought the comments were based on the fans reaction to Monday's game. Once I saw the piece you were just answering a question you were asked. I am a big McNabb fan. Based on all the reaction to the interview it just goes to prove your point that you are treated differently. All I know is that I have been a fan for over 25 years and McNabb is better that any QB I have ever watched on the Eagles during that time.
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joyces said September 22, 2007

Okay, I'm tired now. I'm about to go see if there is some football on cable. Peace-out!
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Lemmings said September 22, 2007

Donovan - Thank you for being a class act throughout your career, no matter how the media tries to spin it on you. The Rush thing, the boos, TO, now this...and every time, your reaction to it shows what kind of person you are. You have always impressed me, and you have nothing left to prove on the football field. Good luck on Sunday.
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supafive said September 22, 2007

Donovan, this is about more than football. I want you to know that some of us agree with and thank you for being honest, and we aren't just saying that with hopes that yout ake us to the super bowl. You are a class act, and you have been surrounded by controversy for your entire life. I respect and look up to you, and consider you to be a great role model to me and my future children. I hope that they look at the way you have handled everything, and they gain this. "You have to choose your battles, but it is not a bad thing to speak your opinion, now and then."
Keep up the good work, good man.
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ticklebuddah said September 22, 2007

Donovan - Coming from a non-Philly and non-African American... I still support what you said. Not because I see the same things you see, but because I respect what you say and have confidence that it is true. That being said, I wish you continued success in Philly. Out of the NFC east I like the Eagles, but I'm a Chicagoan so my love goes to my Bears. If this whole Philly thing doesn't work out, I know a lot of fans that would be happy to see you in a Bears uniform!
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KolbFan said September 22, 2007

Donovan, you want to seem so bold by standing by your absurd comments about race in the NFL. Let me give you a tip. When your wrong (like the Mike Vick defending) just admit it. It takes more of a man to stand up and say "I said something stupid" than it is to always offer "No apologies". Rush Limbaugh lost his job for saying the exact same thing about black QB's. I can't stand him but can't you see the hypocracy of your statements? Bottom line is this: If you don't win it, you don't get the glory pal. Philly should thank your ass for getting us to some Conference championships? Bull. A purple skinned QB would be receiving the SAME criticism that your are getting now. I was one of your biggest fans, but in your statements recently you seem to only want to isolate yourself from the fans who love you. It smells very much like you want to work your way out of town with the new PR guy, this Blog, holding separate press conferences, etc. Just say it, "I can't handle the pressure of a major city and I want out".
PS Have you noticed that NO other black QB's have defended your statements? Why?
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- funkediva replied September 23, 2007
  
  Maybe other black quaterbacks are afraid to speak up and out. You may not know this and perhap you do... there will always be one bold enough to stand up for injustice while other may see it and not say a word. Does that mean the injustice doesn't exist or does that mean that others are cowards and are afraid of what maybe thought of them. He did not defend Mick Vick... He stated that he supports him as a friend and that he doesn't approve of the act. Dude Donovan has a dog or two. This world isn't perfect so why do you think the NFL is?
- funkediva replied September 23, 2007
  
  Maybe other black quaterbacks are afraid to speak up and out. You may not know this and perhap you do... there will always be one bold enough to stand up for injustice while other may see it and not say a word. Does that mean the injustice doesn't exist or does that mean that others are cowards and are afraid of what maybe thought of them. He did not defend Mick Vick... He stated that he supports him as a friend and that he doesn't approve of the act. Dude Donovan has a dog or two. This world isn't perfect so why do you think the NFL is?
- joyces replied September 23, 2007
  
  Yeah , KolbFan. It seems like you have some issues of your own and a bad understanding. Are you willing to admit when you are wrong? Or are you man enough!?! And the reference to a purple-shinned quarterback. Huh.........what the..........You need Jesus, common sense, intelligence, prayer and good judgement.
- margeschott replied September 25, 2007
  
  The extent of your fanship is defined by the ease which your idolized player invites you to feel. Life must be rough. I hope your blog name is rewarded. ;-)
pzander said September 22, 2007

Donovan put it best. Other white quarterbacks have never been asked what it is like to be white. It's a privilege that other white QB's have just because they are white. Is it their fault, no? But is it real? Absolutely. Donovan has to be better than better. He very much has to put that "extra something" and if you think that it's because Philly is a tough sports town then you are missing something. It's nice to see someone with influence and strong character start naming things for what they are, without apologies.
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DATruth215 said September 22, 2007

D-Mc,
I have been a fan since you were in Orange and will continue to be a fan until you retire. I myself am a grown man with a family and I lookup to you. (As do my nephews) You have always been a class act. I agree with your responses and support everything you said. It's funny, I continuously found myself defending you at the office against me "fellow" work associates when drafting you first round for Fantasy football. It goes with out saying that they criticized you more so then a few others. So it's amusing to see how now when you speak the truth they get upset about it, and say race card this and race card that. (Coming from guys that don't even understand what a race card is nor how it's play ed.)
Sometimes the truth hurts. Some people just don't want to admit. Keep your head up and God Bless! For every nay sayer you find you have 2 more McNabb fans with twice the heart, mind and spirit. Good Luck this weekend. E-A-G-L-E-S!!!!!
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delusional247 said September 22, 2007

Another thing. The boos you may hear on the field, I wouldn't take them too heart as they are more directed towards the coaching and front office. You are still the best QB this franchise / city has ever seen. It would be a pleasure to see you retire an Eagle in 10 more years.
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delusional247 said September 22, 2007

Hope you are able to read this at some point way down here in the 200 plus posts. Anyways I think alot of things are getting blown out of proportion. I keep reading in the "media" that you are losing the philly fans ( far from true from what I see ).

I just think with the way the offseason went and the start of the season you were put in a no win situation by the front office. I was one of those people that DIDN'T want you to start the season. Why? I think you are risking even more injury to your knee as opposed to sitting until the bye ( while healing and practicing with the first team to shake that rust and find more sync ).

I just don't want to see you get injured again before your knee is even fully healed. ( or injured period ).

Overall its just the mess the front office did during the offseason ( and didn't do ) and it is all wrongly coming back to you.

Best of luck in recovering, Stay healthy & keep your mind straight.

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eaglesfan1107 said September 22, 2007

you willkick ass

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supafive said September 22, 2007

IF ANY OF YOU ARE GOING TO THE GAME TOMORROW, CHEER HARD WHEN HE IS ANNOUNCED TO THE 75 YEAR TEAM!!!

Donovan, you are the man, I am worried that you are frustrated with the fans. So many of us want you to keep your head up, so many of us don't want you to get down on yourself, for more than just your sports ability, but for your ability to be a stand up human being.

HEADS UP!
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supafive said September 22, 2007

Oh yeah, donovan, it has always been one of my dreams to have a conversation with you, because I always wonder what you are thinking when these tough times are goin down. athorp@progprint.com, hit me up!
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cnote182 said September 22, 2007

Coming from a someone who is not particularly a McNabb fan, I could not be more supportive of him right now. I think that it is awesome that he spoke up, finally showed that he is human and not some Politically Correct Machine all of the time. It is hard, but some non-blacks don't understand that Blacks have to be able to play dual roles to be successful in life. You have to be "street" when the time occurs and you have to know when to be "discrete" as well. It feels good to see that Donovan has a realistic side to him. I totally feel McNabb when it comes to Black athletes, but I would venture to say that many people outside of Philly cannot understand the racial tension that exists here. Philly is a racist town! All of these people who run around proclaiming that they are not racist are the ones throwing stones when no one is looking.
On the sports side of things, I have noticed recently that the athletes who take the most heat in Philly are the Black ones when it seems that many of the other athletes who are not Black are given a pass in many cases. When I listen to sports radio, which is everyday, I notice that people are constantly calling up to talk negatively about McNabb. Those same people will call up and praise dead weight like Pat Burrell and the other wife beater on that team which everyone seems to have forgotten about. Don't get me wrong, Burrell has been swinging a hot bat for the last two months, but he didn't start doing that until he got to hit in front of Howard, thus getting better pitches to swing at. Make no mistake though, Burrell has been dead weight for the last 7 years, I doubt that will change overnight. And I guarantee if McNabb hit his wife in public, he would have been run out of town.
All McNabb has done since coming into town on the "Boo!" Train is take the team to 4 straight NFC Championships and a Super Bowl appearance with a plethora of non-factors (save Westbrook) on Offense. Who would they rather have at QB? Doug Peterson? And for those who say Carson Palmer... how many AFC championships has he been to even with all of that talent around him? If I have one gripe with McNabb's game it is that fact that he throws way too many "dirtballs" and plays too safe at times. Outside of that, he is a top 5 QB in the league regardless of his race. Wanna blame someone for the dismal start? Look no further than the fatman calling the plays. Don, don't apologize for JACK! There are people out here who feel you and who are behind you and your views on society. I only have two words for the Eagles... FEED WESTBROOK! I'm out!
-C~Note182
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owatts said September 22, 2007

I love attletes that can keep it real about society ills. This interviews shows how divisive the black community is. Chris Carter attacked Donavan because he said Donavan is getting paid a lot of money, and needs to be thankful. People like him will always keep us apart; because people like him will attack you to please the dominant race.
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bozman2 said September 22, 2007

I've always admired your honesty and forthrightness and still do, so as a Donovan McNabb fan I understand and appreciate your stance.

As an Eagles fan, I wish the timing was different since this has become such a flashpoint; though I'm sure you and your teammates are pros about blocking out non-football stuff when you're preparing for the upcoming game, it has to have an effect because you all are human.

Ultimately, it will just give your detractors more ammunition to whine and complain; I'd like nothing better than for you to shut them up yet again.

Good luck and never back down.
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TXIggleFan said September 22, 2007

As a white woman and a huge fan, I could not agree with you more, Donovan. You have always done such a good job of handling yourself during your career. You are a true role model on and off the field. You're speaking the truth, and I hope to God the media starts listening and stops perpetuating the racism. Thank you so much for what you've done for my home town (I live in Houston now, and we would have KILLED for a QB like you!!! -- Philly, if you're listening, QUIT THE BOOING -- YOU DO NOT KNOW WHAT YOU'VE GOT IN THIS QB - COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS!), my beloved Eagles, and football. I love watching you play. God bless you, and may you have a great season.
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tito20 said September 23, 2007

yeah you are the best keep rep africanamericans QBs good luck this season
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kingdom2612 said September 23, 2007

You owe nobody an apology. You were true to yourself and honest with your answers. You can't help HBO's timing and you can't control the aspect in which they tell the story. I am not an Eagles fan but I am a Donovan McNabb fan. I admire and respect the way you have dealt with all the controversy that comes your way. You always handle it with dignity and class. I don't understand why people try to make others look bad but I guess they just like drama. A true fan is a fan through good and bad. The fans doing all the grumbling right now - are not REAL fans. I am not black but I agree that black QB's are under a different kind of pressure from the fans and the media than are white QB's. Stay true to yourself. Continue to give your best as you always do. Never look back at the slanderings of the media and NON-fans. Always know you are a great example of strength, dignity, class, and honesty and never let anyone take that from you. I am in your corner and personally hope you have a healthy and productive year but regardless of the outcome - I'll still be a McNabb fan. Best wishes to you and yours!
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ToledoEagle said September 23, 2007

What's up Donovan? Just wanted to say that I'm a huge fan of yours and always will be. I hope you remain in the city of Philadelphia until you retire. It seems like every year people have an excuse to turn on you and you always come through and lead this team to the playoffs. I'm glad you said what you did and who cares if people don't like it. Most people don't like hearing or facing the truth and it's nice having somebody man enough to tell the truth and stand by it. I've defended you for years to my friends and family here in Ohio and I will continue to do so. I think you're the best QB in the NFL and I know as a team you'll get on track sooner than later. Thanks for all of the great years you've provided us Eagles fans and I look forward to many more with you at QB. Good Luck #5!
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Chendaddy said September 24, 2007

381 yards and 4 touchdowns. not gonna be a lot of controversy when you do that on sundays. yeeeaaah boooyyyyyy
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jubril58 said September 24, 2007

way to play man. Keep it up
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bloodbrother said September 24, 2007

holy crap you guys just tore the Lions defense apart. Wow, it looked so easy out there. You only had like 6 incomplete passes thrown and it only took 21 passes to almost notch 400 yards. Westbrook with an insane game, over 100 yards rushing and 100 yards receiving with about 3 TD's. Same with Curtis, over 200 receiving yards and 3 TD's. Jeeez, you'd think the Lions would start putting somebody on the guy. Well, the O made a big statement today and showed that they can put some points on the board. Wow
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moneychamp said September 24, 2007

I told you all they would bounce back! Keep it going Donovan, make your statements on the feild and shut these bandwagon jumpers up.
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iLL_one77 said September 24, 2007

Great game, god bless.
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iLL_one77 said September 24, 2007

It was a performance the Eagles needed to assert themselves as a team to be reckoned with after their 0-2 start.

"I would say that is true," said McNabb. "A lot of the plays we were running we felt that we would be very effective in it. We just felt unstoppable at times. We just kind of had to continue to stay focused, guys stayed together and we just waited for our opportunity to get back out on the field."

Keep it togather there will be more opportunintys!!! Hard work on 3- 1,2,3 HARD WORK!!!!!!!-iLL_one77
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PhillyRapture said September 24, 2007

Can you hear that? It is only the sweet sound of haters who have snuggly shoved their foots in their mouths. Great display of your focus.
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patrickinny said September 24, 2007

I can't really understand how the media and others can be so up in arms about your comments about race. To say this an example of you playing the race card is ridiculous. You didn't say it as an excuse or mitigating factor for any shortcomings or any failures that you may or may not have had. You were simply stating the fact that black quarterbacks are in essence profiled to a certain style of quarterbacking and often times expected to exhibit more athleticism in order to make up for what was (less predominantly of late than in the recent past) an incorrect assumption as to the lack of the traditional quarterbacking smarts or field general acumen. I'm not black, and so I'm likely not as sensitive to racial issues as someone of a minority group might be, but it doesn't take any intense investigative work to see that there are higher standards of scrutiny for black pocket (non-scrambling) quarterbacks than white pocket (non-scrambling) quarterbacks. Surely the disparity in standards is being diminished on a yearly basis and eventually will likely disappear altogether, just as I'm sure you would say that the difference in standards now compared to when you began your career has lessened as you and others have demonstrated that pocket non-scrambling black quarterbacks are just as competent as your white counterparts on a case by case basis. But again, for the media to act offended as if you had no right to level such accusations is patently absurd. Even if the bias is more pronouced on the local level than the national level, to bury our heads in the sand and pretend it doesn't exist in an effort to be politically correct is ridiculous. And the funny thing to me is that when you made the comments, you probably never thought they would be received the way that they have been in such an inflammatory environment, as if you'd called the entire media a bunch of racist pigs. I, for one, appreciate your candor and have always enjoyed the passion and class you bring to the game. Not a bad day against Detroit either. You have my support.
Patrick from Brooklyn
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cocomama5 said September 24, 2007

Donovan you are absolutely right. I don't think people really understand that racism does still exist and how difficult it can be at times to be of a different race. Blacks will never get ahead if we don't talk about and address the issues. Look at the horrific case of racism in Jena, Louisiana, no one would have known about it, if that one person wouldn't have said "this is wrong and we need to do something about it." Keep your head up, don't stop talking about what you know and feel in your heart, and stay proud! All those haters want from you is a ring and the title, they don't care about the scrutiny that you have to go through to get it. That's sad people and it's time to WAKE THE HECK UP!!!!!!!! Only your true fans will support you no matter what.
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Jesusboy413 said September 24, 2007

My question is...how is donovan getting so much back lash from a question he didn't bring up???? some people just don't know what it's like being black. I'm sorry, but it's the truth. The situation going on in lousiana tells us that racism is still alive and there is still a struggle. This isn't just about being booed at draft day, or even at the introduction of our starting QB yesterday (which by the way sickened my stomach when i heard about it). Because philly will boo you one day and cheer you the very next down. It goes so much further than just booing. If generation today didn't experience the way we were looked down upon as an inferior. For instance...Matt Lienart, Vince Young. Vince won the bowl game. Matt didn't...yet, it was said that Vince wasn't "smart" enough to score high on the "wonderlic"...but you ask any defense in the league...who's tougher to prepare for...vince or matt. The is a higher bar set for black QBs and yes it's ALOT better than it was years ago, in terms of hiring the Best QB no matter what skin color, but the fact of the matter is that we still have much more to prove. Donovan has given us the best years of his life...that is with "ok" receivers and really good if not great receiver(s). I look at carson palmer...he's heralded as a great QB...however he hasn't gotten to the superbowl let alone the afc championship...Donovan has gotten us to the nfc championship 4yrs in a row and even when a certain player was there...you can't say it was all him because he wasn't in the deciding game that took us "over the hump". It was Donovan at the helm, making plays giving receivers more time to produce an opening for him. And then look at peyton manning...he's looked at as a mastermind or a surgeon on the field...i've seen donovan dismantle great defenses just as good. Do they call him a mastermind or surgeon? Look at the Panthers in their prime...or when we beat the Ravens in a grudge match the year we went to the superbowl, Donovan found a way for us to win that game.
I just wish everyone would sit back and think just a little more out the box that they're living in and see this world for what it is and not out of this "sheltered thinking" like race isn't still an issue. It is and i'm glad you didn't back down donovan. I'm glad you were bold enough to answer from you heart and cause someone to say...well hey...do we treat them different?
To all you fans that booed donovan yesterday at intros...you suck. about 10mins later you were singing his praises...the only thing i hate about being an Eagles fan...is that i have to deal bandwagon people on the bandwagon.
Donovan i apologize for them if it's worth anything. Your a great QB, and even greater human being. Thank God for you and your family. Great game yesterday...Let's go knock down those Giants!
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bigkat15 said September 24, 2007

One of your predecessors said it right, "Let me be me." and I think he wore the #12.
By the way he was black too! I think you can see by the fans' votes for the 75th anniversary team that the fans that are knowledgable and love football in this town know what your about and respect you for it.
Please don't ever lose that passion. I love seeing you on the field smiling and having fun.
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Daemon said September 24, 2007

Thanks Mcnabb for not avoiding the race based question! You do get scrutinized more than your white counterparts. I get scrutinized more than my white counterparts. So does my dad and and all of my black friends. We all do! Truth is white folks just don't want to hear it.
We all know we have to work twice as hard to get any real respect from these traditional supremacists - who can't help but see the world from a "white" point of view, but they mean no harm. They just don't understand the plight of the black male. We're with ya Donovan! And thanks for being a really big inspiration! Just win the big game! And then you can say anything you want, Terry Bradshaw will eat humble pie - but he and others like him still won't change - they'll continue attempting to sweep race issues under the rug and we'll continue to speak :)
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mdrusedum said September 24, 2007

donovan- As a lifetime fan, who has been displaced for 15 years, let me just say you are the man. i think people tend to publish only the detractors these days, it makes better news. I'm sure I am not alone in thanking you for all you have done to make the Eagles a respected and feared team these last many years. i had season tickets back in the late eighties, had to give them up as my wife and I started to move due to work. This is the best run we've had. Thanks.
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EmmVeePee said September 24, 2007

381 Yards, 4 Touchdowns, Perfect Passer-Rating.
Yet Favre gets the attention.

They try to twist everything and put it onto you, cough, Terrell. They probably do it because you're not some weak yes-man, and they know you'll speak your mind and opinion. And when you disagree with them, they demonize you - for more publicity.

Keep up the good work.
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ISingh said September 24, 2007

Dear Mr. Donovan, I dont think you should have to APOLOGIES and im glad you didnt. Im gald that you stood up for what you said and belive. I do agree with what you had said. QBs like V. Young and J. Campbell have not gone thru what you have gone thru (College sitution). And people that dont belive in your comment, I hope they relize what happened this past sunday. (You throw for 300+ yards and 4 TDs and a PERFECT QB rating which has only been done a few times.) Fox Sports then goes and makes Farve FEDEX player of the AIR. Yes he did tie the all time record for TDs But going 21-26 and 4TDs with a rating of 158.3. Is darn amazing. Im glad too see you are having fun out there. Keep doing what you do best. And I would like to say you have more Supporting fans then haters. But every hatters is a fan when you win and every supporter is a hatter win THE EAGLES loose but the blames goes to you. And thats Philadelphia for you. Thankyou for the Great game sunday.
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racers7 said September 24, 2007

Nice game Donovan, its always fun to watch the Eagles good or bad games! I think it is true black athletes are judged harder (I'm asian), Society picks and chooses who they feel is capable of being well-spoken. No matter, I'm from Philadelphia and I've watched your career from the first year with the Eagles, there are fans who do support you no matter what kind of year you are having. You and your wife are lucky to have each other and your parents raised a good son. I hope God blesses you continually. You always have such a nice demeanor.
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GR8BLAZERFAN said September 24, 2007

Thanks for your honesty and clearing up some of those points. We should all know how the media disorts the facts to make a good "story".
Great game yesterday :)
Gr8blazerfan
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chiba2 said September 24, 2007

There is no need for apologies! Why are we always expected to apologize and submit for speaking our minds? As soon as a black man says something about the injustices we encounter, all of the sudden we're playing the race card, or are displaying reverse racism. People get a damn grip! We all, black white yellow brown, have the right of free speech. And stop acting as though this is all so shocking. Donovan, you are entitled to your opinion, and I happen to agree with you. I don't get to se things from your view, but from mine, your comments were on point. Congrats for the great game, unfortunately, I'm sure it will not quiet the haters. Stay true to yourself and your fans! I'll end by quoting my man Kanye West, "Give a black man a break!"
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rosiro said September 24, 2007

Donovan, keep your head up! It must be hard being in the limelight, your every move and comment scrutinized. You are doing the best with what you have being given. Also understand (and I am sure you do) that the people out there are only concerned with you winning each and every time you step out on that field. As long as you are in that position, no one will ever feel sorry for you or will even stop to actually think about what goes on behind the mask and what it must be like. This is America and believe me, it scares me sometimes. Then again, if we did not have varied opinions, I guess we would all be clones of each other. I just wish that Americans can have conversations about race without getting so defensive and sick of each other. I understand that no matter how objective one tries to be, it is hard to e truly objective. You can only see things from your side of the fence and can never truly understand what it means to be one or the other. My only wish is that we all make the effort to understand each other. It would really make this whole journey more bearable. This might all be naivete and wishful thinking on my part because I know that there are bigots on both sides of the fence that dont ever want to consider the good in each person, but we have to keep hope alive. You have started the conversation with your comments and hopefully it will lead to bigger and better things. Hopefully the white QB dont take your comments out of context and actually understand them for what you intended. I also hope that your fans out there realize that you are not a whiner or any other crazy names you have been called and that you merely stated what everyone knows and is either afraid to say it out loud either because it would hit too close to home, because they are guilty of it themselves. Why are Americans afraid to discuss race? Because most of what we might talk about is difficult for most people to deal with it. But sweeping it under the rug is not the answer and will never be the answer.
I wish you and your team the very best!
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Phillyforever said September 24, 2007

Hi McNabb!! When I heard about this interview coming out, my first thought was, well, if that is how you feel, then it must be true. You don't seem like the kind of person who would make things up. Also, the comments you made were in response to questions that you were asked. You didn't just go on t.v or do an interview and make those comments out of the blue. I love you and the whole Eagles team. You are just as good, if not better than any other Q.B. in the leaque. Part of the reason that some other Q.B.'s seem better than you to some people is that they have either better receivers-Peyton Manning- for more than one year and basically, better luck as far as not getting injured. Some people just have all the luck-Tom Brady for example!! He never gets hurt! Maybe if Jeff Lurie would spend some money on some quality players, (Randy Moss, Jamal Lewis, T.O., Garcia, Stallworth...) we would have been to the Superbowl more than once since 1999. It is not your fault T.O. didn't get his money, it is Luries! And it is not your job to get other people more money. It is their job! I have never thought of you as a "black Q.B.", but if you think that peole think of you that way, then to me, it must be true. Anyway, Thanks for all you have done for the Eagles and great game today!
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drvaughn said September 24, 2007

Donovan, I applaud you rising to the occasion. And don't dare apology for making a factual statement. Remember this too shall pass.
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sam5142 said September 24, 2007

Donovan, Hearing you state your opinion more candily is refreshing. Its just a shame that people have an agenda and take things out of context. Keep doing what you do. Hopefully theres more games like today.
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shawn19 said September 24, 2007

I am glad to hear that you are not playing the "race card" Donovan.As all NFL fans know it is very difficult to be the go-to-receiver when your white, so I want to thank you for throwing the ball to Mr. curtis. As a white receiver who doesnt't have the ideal size he plays the sport with alot of heart and skill and therefor is very deserving to have the game that he did. Just remember Donovan it is what you do on the field that you will be remembered by-not your color.
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HeadSlap said September 23, 2007

Donovan - I just finished watching the game and it was a thing of beauty. Whether it was getting the brace off your knee or some things off your chest, you played a magnificent game. As for the "other" game you've been forced to play with the media, just follow your football instincts: keep your head on a swivel and watch your blindside.
You put on a clinc today in how to play the position. For the past 9 years, you've been putting on a clinic for how a professional athlete should conduct himself. Real fans applaud you for both.
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ERupert said September 23, 2007

Donovan, I don't thin k you owe anyone an apology for what you said; in my book you were reminding the public of the obvious; ideed, black athletes have always known, even if they won't admit it, that they've had to be better than others to even get a play. The fact that you stated it tells me the fact is still a fact, ESPN reporters responding with mock horror ntwithstanding.
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jmdaly1 said September 23, 2007

Hey 5 great game on Sunday. One of the best ever for Eags QB. Looking sharp in the blue and yellow suit too.
Let the talk roll off your back. I see more 5 jerseys than any other at home games - you are appreciated. Keep fighting!
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ddaj6775 said September 23, 2007

Mr McNabb,
I've read and heard all the comments from different pre/post game shows concerning your feelings on race in the NFL with regards to being a "black" quarterback and although I'm not much of an Eagles fan ( sorry from Texas so I'm partial to the Cowboys) however I am a fan of football period. People are going to talk about you whether you win or lose. Whether you play when your body feels like crap, whether you're tired or just fed up with fickle Philly fans booing when you know you're giving your all, those things aren't the issue. The issue is you TOLD THE TRUTH. People have a problem with that. The fact that you didn't sugar coat what you had to say about how differently black quartebacks are treated is a problem for people who act like it's all good and there is no race issues in sports and that black players in general aren't treated differently in the media. You put it on blast and the ones who have an issue with it let it be THEIR issue. You aren't the first black quarteback to feel that way you just chose not to give the typical media/publicity friendly answer to the questions asked and I applaud you for that, take your stand and stand behind what you say because either way you will be talked about. Now that being said go out there and just do what you do. Do Donovan, be #5, be a leader, stand your ground and hold your head up when they talk about you because when they talk it's not about you per se it's about an issue that no one wants to own, you are just the one in the spotlight that they target for having an opinion and being man enough to speak on it. As a black person we know that race is an issue even today and those in denial are the ones making the issue out of the fact that something about Race in the NFL was put on blast. Now let them talk and maybe if enough people talk about the real issue of how Black Quarterbacks are treated in the media as opposed to White Quarterbacks then something can be done to resolve the real issue. But like you said this isn't a perfert world and they gain more air time when they talk about YOU and try to put YOU down because as long as they are discussing Donavan Mcnabb, they never have to deal with the real issue at hand.
Thats just my opinion on the matter and my opinion and fifty cents will get you a bag of chips lol. Take care and do your thing. Now although I am a die hard Cowboys fan I do wish you all the best this season and pray that you stay healthy so that you can really shut those critics mouths.

Blessings & Growth
-Darla
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Eagles2007 said September 23, 2007

Game against Detroit (Offense):

Donovan McNabb - Absolutely flawless performance! Perfection!

Offensive line: A+

Brian Westbrook: Simply amazing! One of the top three running backs in the N.F.L.

Play calling: Outstanding.

Kevin Curtis: Where's Stallworth? Who cares?

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alxsct083174 said September 23, 2007

The fact that the media took the kind of reaction that it did toward the HBO interview gives me the impression that there still is a problem between the races. In hs interview he was asked specific questions and he answered them truthfully, he didn't just give the "politically correct" answer. The man has been criticized by the media both white and black and not for just playing poorly. Someone needs to ask the question, Why is the media reacting this way to true statements, did Donovan McNabb strike a nerve with certain members of the media?
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bhmcg3 said September 23, 2007

Donovan,
I've never sent a letter to an athlete in my life, but for some reason I just feel like offering you some encouragement. I grew up in Phila but have lived in the NYC area for a long while. I've remained an Eagles fan all my life. One thing living in NYC has made clear to me is how embarassing the reputation of Phila fans can be. From where i sit 90 miles to the north, their supposed "toughness" is so clearly a collective chip on the shoulder that masks a self-defeating sense of inadequacy. (Don't mean to start psycho-babbling, but the fans' behavior doesn't seem to be about what's happening on the field...it's almost like they act like wounded children.)
It might sound strange but ever since you've taken over the team I've been telling my family/friends in Philly that we have the makings of a DYNASTY! I still believe that you and Coach Reid can not only win the Super Bowl, you can win SEVERAL of them.
One of the biggest reasons i hope this happens is that it might forever turn the tide for Phila sports fans in general. My friends from Pittsburgh love their Steelers come hell or high water and i think that's directly related to the dynasty they experienced in the 70s.
I guess this is just a long-winded way of saying, don't give up on Philadelphia...I think you could very well hold the keys to fundamentally reshaping the way an entire city feels about itself...no pressure! ;-)
HANG IN THERE!
B
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glcatv said September 23, 2007

Winning shuts everyone up. Make everyone shup-up 14-7 as I type this you are having a great game Donovan.
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exploorer64 said September 23, 2007

We Reap What We Sow.....Rush( the Racist) Limbaugh brings up the race issue(and wrongfully so) and you respond with " why bring up color I thought we were past that?"
funny you bring up the race issue now...Thought you were past that?
Philadelphia has been a pioneer in football/race relations.
We begged Vermeil to put Johnnie Walton in when Jaworski was sucking it up.Chants for Walton were loud and we were white & black guys begging for change!
Randall came in and was awesome we loved him until he sucked it up...his time passed,Ray Rhodes (we loved his attitude and great defensive Mind,came in and we won a playoff game(1st in years).Then Andy picked You to lead us!!! You need to brush up on your black quarterbak history here in Philly...We care about who leads us...as long as he Leads Us!Seems you have issues with yourself not the fans....Be the 1st Quarterback to lead us to a Super Bowl Victory...We will love you as we once did...then you can answer the one question all others (black or white) have never been asked before you...how does it feel to be the 1st Eagles Quarterback to WIN The SUPER BOWL?
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gr8choice said September 23, 2007

For those of you who pretend as if racism is no longer exists or are just naive, it seems to be even worse than it was in the 1960s because it is hidden and you never know where it is coming from or who to expect it from. For example, the Jena six shows you exactly where the state of race relations is today. Just to let you all know, I am bringing up these black and white comparisons because it bothers me when I see it happening, not because I am a racist. I love my black and white quarterbacks and give them the same criticisms no matter the color. I wish the world could be that way. Thank you McNabb and good luck and don't ever stop being you.
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gr8choice said September 23, 2007

Mr. McNabb, thank you for doing what so many men in your position were afraid to do. It is a relief on myself and many other when someone decides to say something. It annoys me that so many people in your position decide to go blind at moments like this. For example, the outspoken Keyshawn Johnson on ESPN, Emmit Smith, Michael Ervin and many others choose to ignore the facts in front of them. It happens every week in all levels of football. Last year in the biggest stage of college football, two black quarterbacks who played in the National Championship were not drafted high. One was drafted very late and the other was not drafted at all. I did not hear any doubts about Troy Smith the entire season until they lost the National Championship and at that point he was not good enough for the NFL. On the other hand, Brady Quinn lost badly several times and he was a franchise quarterback in the NFL. They say it is because Troy is only six feet tall, but there are many six feet tall white quarterbacks, Drew Brees, Jeff Garcia and others. This year there is a white mobile quarterback, but there is no doubt anywhere that when he decides to go pro nobody will think about changing his position. He will go high in the draft and passing ability will not be questioned. His name is Tim Tebow for Florida, but every year the black mobile quarterback is questioned. This year it will be Pat White for West Virginia. For the blind people, just watch and listen to the game commentators when the black quarterbacks are having a bad game at how they doubt his abilities to carry the game. Yet the white quarterback who is having an equally bad game will be reported as someone who is just young and needs to learn the system and he will be okay and have a promising future, one example Notre Dame quarterbacks. Does this sound familiar to anybody?
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JadenJones said September 24, 2007

Donovan, I support you 100%. You have nothing to apologize for. African-American's are treated differently not only in sports but in corporate america as well. We have to work twice as hard as whites to get promoted as well as pay increases. And when we have gained success in the corporate world, we hear comments such as " he or she did not deserve that promotion, they only got job because of affirmative action". I want you to know that you are not alone and that a majority of fans in Philadelphia support you. Don't pay attention to those fair weather fans.
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paladin2002 said September 25, 2007

Great game Donovan!! No other way to say it. It's all about the T E A M and you and the Eagles came up big on Sunday! Hope you all keep the momentum against the Giants and then get some well deserved rest with the bye week! I was worried about how long it would take your knee to feel better*, and if the Lions WR's would be too much with Lito and Dawkins out. Sure enough you looked great on Sunday. Thanks to you, and the Eagles, for proving me wrong! Looking forward to the day -- soon -- when you own all of the Eagles' passing records!

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gforce3 said September 25, 2007

You have a right to your opinon, based on your experience, I guess folks expect you not to feel or think, simply cause you play sports, a lot of folks are in denial about race relations in this country. The Jena Six situation is a prime example of racial inequity. I hate it when folks say we are playing the "race-card", it sort of belittles the reality of whats going on. Stop playing the " disrespect-card" and we can all get along. Look at what happened to Doug Williams, prime example. The hate mail he used to get was unreal. I like you for being an athelete, but I admire you more, for your intelligence and your dignity and I am a cowboy fan..
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Judith said September 25, 2007

Donovan:
I pray for you and I like you just the way you are. God made you special. Don;t let others put you down.
God Bless, Judy Cohen
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wildebill said September 25, 2007

One win, 2 losses that's losing football. Let's see how McWhiner does against a real team like Dallas.

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Kevinlt said September 25, 2007

To: Donovan McNabb
From: Kevin L. Thomas, Karing Living Together
Dear Mr. McNabb:
In reference to your recent comments two week ago, there was proof in the New York game. Manning was not productive; the second quarterback was heavy set and received a leg injury. The third string quarterback came in and moved the team. The receivers were dropping the ball that was thrown right to their hands.
There was no mention about the ability of the third string quaarterbacks' ability to move the team forward and the receivers dropping the ball. There was endless communicating about the white quarterbacks' lack of completion but constant stroking and accolades of past achievement. There is often bias in communicating as far as ability and overall position turn
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racers7 said September 25, 2007

All he did was answer the questions given to him. So he was honest, I don't see what the big deal is. The answers have nothing to do with his playing. The guy is a nice guy, he plays a good game. If he plays a bad game, oh then he is terrible but no one ever says a nice thing about his good games. Michael Vick curses and then sticks a finger at his fans, I don't think that was appropriate (he gets big bucks for what he does but he has to be an *ss about it). Philly fans don't know what a great QB they have. And by the way, racism has not been erased despite what people think, they just put on blinders. I have been in groups of "white" and other nationalities conversing and have heard people make derogatory "comments" about african-americans (and I'm asian and a woman) they think just because no strangers are nearby listening they can still say the "N" word. Just shows you what "America" is like still.
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eaglesfan1976 said September 25, 2007

All I can say is THAT WAS AWESOME!!!! Great game against Detroit I knew that was coming. I think that you are a fantastic role model and it is unfortunate that the media feels the need to take things too far but that has been your entire career thus far. I know that this has been a set back and I love the FACT that your bigger than the media and continue to prove through your play that it's about enjoying the sport you were born to play and not giving in. That is what sets you apart from the rest! Thanks
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jobrienjr said September 26, 2007

Donovan,
First of all, thanks for being a genuine person. You always have been and I'm proud of the work you've done in Philadelphia outside of footall. You are a class-act, and I truly believe you will ultimately lead this city to a Superbowl.
There are far to many haters in this city, and frankly, life is too short. #5 is my QB. Here's an email I shared with my vey extensive family after Sunday:
To all of you McNabb haters, i hope you enjoy your cold dish of crow. And, yeah, I heard ALL of you gasping when he went down in the first half with what looked like a serious injury.
The guy is entitled to an opinion, and how soon the flip-flopping fans in this town forget about the remarks that Rush Limbaugh made in 2003.
Shame on you....Shame on you....Shame on you....
Like Mike Schmidt, Eric Lindros, Charles Barkley, and A.I. (who I will agree, I still hate, so I guess I'm a hypocrite too), Philly has refused to embrace our stars for their lack of commitment to our city. And then they leave and laugh at us, while driving to the bank.
Its becoming more and more disgusting to me to have to endure criticism of McNabb by family, friends and customers, as people have such short memories.
History Lesson:
Scoring 4 touchdowns on a broken ankle
4th & 26
16 seconds vs. Dallas complete to Pinky
NFC Championship Game 2001 11-5
NFC Championship Game 2002 12-4
NFC Championship Game 2003 12-4
NFC Championship Game 2004 13-3 Superbowl
I can remember going to the Vet when we were 3-13. To all of you McNabb bashers, where were you then? Too tired from the Villanova game the day before?
Last time I checked Tommy's not a 100% passser, and neither are both Mannings. Ever consider that when McNabb throws a ball in the dirt that the sub-par receivers he launched a missle at forgot their route?
In case your brain is still foggy, in the weeks last yearb efore Donvan was hurt, he put up numbers in passing & rushing that were better than any other QB in the league...EVER!!!
And you want to release him and send him to Chicago so we get back to 3-13 next year, while McNabb wins the Superbowl for Chi-town?
No thanks...
Michelle and I have just had the fortune to lock up 4 Games a year Season Tickets with a neighbor for the next 10 years.
I'm hoping that McNabb will retire here so I get to watch his wonder on the field for at least the next 3-4 years.
McNabb is my QB, thank you...
Peace,
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kaya6464 said September 26, 2007

McNabb, I had the unfortunate experience yesterday of seeing my favorite sports team, the Philadelphia Eagles, play football at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Yes, you read right: unfortunate. Despite their amazing 56-21 victory and what would have been a great time, I had one of the worst experiences of my life. Some people said I should have known what to expect. Had I been warned, it still couldn't have prepared me for the disgusting verbal display that my boyfriend and I heard once we sat down. As we made our way to our seats in section 221, otherwise known as the 700 level, we hunkered down, excited just to be at the stadium, seeing our team. The sun was blazing as the Eagles took the field and I was excited to see my favorite quarterback, Donovan McNabb. Despite losing the first two games of the season and controversy surrounding his racially charged comments made on HBO, I was thrilled to watch him in action. The players emerged and the energy in the Linc was high. My boyfriend hadn't even sunk his teeth into his sausage sandwich when we were met with horrid screams coming from directly behind us. An older white man continued to scream in my ear, "McNabb you f_cking n_gger, McNabb you f_cking n_gger." Where the hell was I? Was this happening? After the fourth and fifth series of hate-filled words and expletives were uttered I abruptly left my seat to inform a staff member about this man's behavior. Upon relaying the information to a security guard dressed in red, I was told that he was not responsible for my section and that if it happened again to tell the other guard. I sat back down. I hadn't eaten anything all day but felt no need for food: my hunger had turned to nausea. We were expected to endure this? Surely no. Our plan was to hold out until the end of the first quarter, then leave. We didn't make it that long. As we sat, unable to focus on the game, our section-mate seemed to have cleaned up his act. I heard bits and pieces, things said in jest like "I said a bad word, we're going to get in trouble." He was refraining from using the N-word and had now taken to a tirade of, "Waa, I'm black, waa" and "Why aren't there more white players?" While my boyfriend, being a reporter, tried to mentally record what he could, I couldn't take it anymore. Standing up I shrieked, "Why the f_ck are you here if you are a racist? Why do you even like the Eagles if you're such a racist?" My only regret now was using the F-word, but to my defense I was an irate woman. Upon confronting the 'man' I was met with screams of protest. Oh no, these were not protests in my favor. Two, three and four men all around us began to scream at me. Me! "We pay to be here, it's a free country!" chimed in a few of the 'man's' new found friends. The tirade against me continued, "...get out of here, we pay for this, we can say whatever we want!" No one, and I mean no one, out of the dozens of people in our section spoke out in my defense, aside from my boyfriend. I honestly could not believe what was taking place. I was, obviously, flustered. I got up to leave and report the men to yet another, Linc employee. Ted, staying behind, continued to converse with the many people who were now all verbally ganging up on us. He informed them that he was a reporter and that he would be writing an article about the incident and asked if they would provide their names for clarification. He was met with silence. I was curious as to why, if people wanted freedom of speech, no one wanted to provide their names. They were able to scream these hate-filled words for dozens of people to hear, yet wouldn't take credit for it. Unfortunately, Ted was only able to write an article for the a local blog. Still determined to alert someone, anyone, at the Linc, we then went to Customer Service and filed a report of the incident. They were receptive and offered to change our seats. Our seats. Almost a joke, right? No. I've spent all day today, the day after these disgusting events took place, calling the Daily News of Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Inquirer in an attempt to get my story out there. Both publications took my name and information, I have not heard back from either. I also called the Linc. again and spoke to, yet another person, conveying my extreme disappointment with the way the situation was, or was not, handled. The reply was, "â€¦we'll look into it." I'm also supposed to hear back from them with a follow up. I won't hold my breath. The reason for writing this story is so that it could be heard. If you or anyone you know has anyway or means of sharing this with the people of Philadelphia, please forward this on. Oh, I forgot the saddest part; the 'man' spewing the hate-filled remarks was there with a child, no older than sixteen.
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- KathyR replied September 27, 2007
  
  Your experience certainly shows people just how far our society's advanced, doesn't it? I was at the game the Monday before, and I was annoyed at what people around me were saying - and that was before the current situation began! I applaud your efforts, and admire your initiative. Reminds of that old saying - "You can't fix stupid". Those people around you proved that yet again.
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Hammer3 said September 25, 2007

Come on, 7 of the top 10 citys in america the "white man" is the manority. Philly has more color and is one of the seven. Hey Mcmillionare have you ever looked in the stands. The "African american" fans are booing you just as well. Just play football!
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Jesusboy413 said September 25, 2007

well it seems to me he's done pretty good against the cowgirls...shut mrs. owens down nicely.
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Jenney713 said September 26, 2007

The show caught my attention when I saw the Eagles fans booing him for being drafted. WOW. I can't imagine what it would feel like to be booed by my own city. Then, my boyfriend told me that Vince Young was probably not drafted by Houston because of his race. It is still so shocking to think that people are so crazy.

I think it is tough to step outside of yourself and really understand what its like to be a black man. It took a lot of thinking for me to get myself to finally understand this. To be criticized pretty much every moment in public. And for someone like McNabb, despite talent, to rise above this and go as far as he can.

This HBO show helped me understand better about him... I dont think he has anything to apologize about! It is pretty sad that he has to even address it!
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- Hammer3 replied September 26, 2007
  
  Your boyfriend needs to get his facts right. Houston drafted A AFRICAN AMERICAN. What a guy and why can't everybody just be americans!!!
VAEaglebabe said September 26, 2007

Donovan,
It's funny how people can criticize without walking a mile in your shoes.
You have brought more class, more excitement, and more possibility to Philly sports than any one in my lifetime. Thank you.
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Mike_D said September 26, 2007

In today's American society people are afraid to hear anything that while true, may paint them as a racist.
All you were doing was pointing out a fact - and as a black QB you know a LITTLE bit better than white upper-middle class columnists about how it feels to be a black QB. In the current climate we live in, instead of simply acknowledging your point and moving on, people are quick to put up their guards and say "No way! We've advanced so far and are so tolerant that it's not posible - he's WRONG!"
Personally, I have no idea what you've gone through, so why wouldn't I accept your points at face value?
Now the real controversy here should be: Why does Brian Westbrook not get the love LT does? That's the real travesty!
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- KathyR replied September 27, 2007
  
  Very well put. Absolutely on the money.
cfalzonee said September 26, 2007

Don, I just want to say, I absolutley respect what you had to say. it's a shame that the media wanted to blow it out the way they did, but thats what they do, they are in it for themselves and any kind of contraversial story they can get makes the buzzards circle. By the way I want you to know that I just took a trip from jacksonville florida back home to philly where I took my dad and 7 year old daughter to the eagles vs. detroit game, that was awesome you guys were awesome and we were amazed. it was her first game and lets just say that was an awesome performance. we love super 5 and want you to retire an eagle. thanks for all of the past and future memories.
â€"Chris
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paladin2002 said September 26, 2007

Vince Young, previously, on Donovan's comments:
"I really feel like myself, black or white quarterbacks, we all go through something because that is the life of a quarterback,'' Young said Wednesday, according to the Nashville Tennessean. "You have to be able to handle all the pressure and you have to be able to handle the losses and you have to be able to handle the media saying this about you.

"If you can't handle it, then you have to get off that position and go play something else."

------------------------------------
Some people that I know, interpreted this as Young disagreeing with Donovan.
Now read this, from the "High and Inside" section of the Philadelphia Daily News:

After a 31-14 win over New Orleans on "Monday Night Football"-a game win which he threw two touchdown passes-Young had this to say:

"That's what I wanted to show the world, that I can throw the ball. It's not all about Vince Young is a mobile quarterback. Vince Young is a QUARTER-BACK. That's it"

------------------------------------
Maybe he agrees with Donovan after all?
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SunshineBarbie said September 27, 2007

I don't think you receive the respect that you deserve from the Philly fans. They didn't want you in the first place. Chicago needs a good quarterback. They have all the pieces in place except for the QB. Keep it in mind.
I am sorry to say that I am a Tampa Bay fan, but I follow the whole NFL. So when I saw your 'no apoligies' press conference, I felt I had to say my part.
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Hammer3 said September 26, 2007

How come everybody that agrees with Donovan gets ++++++ and everybody that dosn't gets- - - - - - -. Want to talk about being fair.
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Jtoddy25 said September 27, 2007

AWESOME GAME on Sunday - seems to have shut some people up! Now we can get our focus on the prize in AZ! one!!! Don't stop blogging 5!
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philip said September 27, 2007

When that reporter asked Donovan if he expected a backlash and Donovan said "yes" and then just got up and walked away....I laughed out loud. He kept it real.
The media is always trying to sell something. I think we all should really just focus on Barry Bonds and his steroid problem.
Seriously though, with Donovan, the Eagles have a better chance of winning the Super Bowl than they ever had. If you want to see them win it in your lifetime you had better get behind him. If you dont like Donovan or what he has to say buy a Romo Jersey.
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KathyR said September 27, 2007

It's refreshing to see an athlete of your calibur make such an honest, valid, & important statement. You're definitely correct. Anyone who is disagreeing with you is either trying to make themselves look better, or too afraid to admit that you're right. A pretty sad statement on our society - but - it's accurate. I'm just glad you had the courage to bring it to light.
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duke07 said September 27, 2007

HI DONOVAN As white middle aged man I will not even try to tell you that I know what you deal with but I can tell you that I recognize you as great athlete a humanitarian and someone who has given back to his community regardless of race. They forget that you are the youngest member on Syracuse University Board and that has nothing to do with race. Remeber Donovan that there are people in this country that are going to dwell on the negative no matter what and they are much more troubled by there views then you are by dealing with them. Be the best Quarterback you can be but be a better person and not give to much thought to simple minded people, the rest of us can see right through them. JCG
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K_Oz_N_VA said September 27, 2007

Its over and done with let it go and lets move on people Donvan is a GREAT person this is FOOTBALL here football is supposed to be FUN
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Mlucas said September 28, 2007

Wow... You really have a blog? This is great... First of all.. I am a 57 year old white male... The things you said about the race is sooooo true... I worked for a large aircraft company and I had black friends, because we had a boss that had a problem with that, I took allot of heat because of my relationship with the other race... I do believe its allot better now, but I still have heard statement like .. man he plays pretty good for a black quarterback... I just have to look at these people who can come up with that kind of lines and wonder if they think that when they see a white play? Wow this guy is good for a white man? NEVER!
Man you just keep up with your great playing, you will go down in the NFL history books. And you keep your freedom of speech... As you may have notice that I have... The ones who gets tired of hearing it all are the ones who are the problem.. Don't know.. maybe its just me... Take great care Donvan and hope you have a great season... Oh let me say... I see your numbers... Are you Black? hmmm lol.. I guess I am little bit color blind... Mark
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huttdawg100 said October 03, 2007

I'm from Tennessee, and I had a first hand view of Steve McNair being denied access to the Titans' training facilities. As a huge Steve McNair fan, I felt slighted by the Titans when they traded him to their greatest rivals, the Baltimore Ravens. It pains me to think this thought: if Steve McNair were white, would he have retired a Titan. After all, he is a former MVP, he did lead the team to the Super Bowl, and he risked his career playing hurt on multiple occasions.
So, in response to Donovan McNabb's comments about race: he could not be more right. Merril Hoge of ESPN has ripped Michael Vick, Donovan McNabb, and Vince Young for a "run first" mentality. My issue with this is: these guys have always been running quarterbacks and it has worked. The problem with the three quarterbacks is not that they can't throw; it's the fact that they have nobody to throw to. Where is Donovan McNabb's Marvin Harrison and Edgerrin James? Where is Vince Young's go to receiver? Over the past ten years, McNabb has done more with less than anybody, but Merril Hoge and Mark Schlereth, two "quarterback gurus", continue to rip him apart.
Philly fans need to get it together! What confuses me is the fact that Andy Reid seems to be blameless in this entire situation. They start 1-3 and nobody is looking at Andy Reid as the captain of this ship. No; it's all Donovan McNabb's fault. Apparently Andy Reid is an innocent bystander. If Donovan McNabb had Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne as his first and second receivers, we might be looking at him as a three time MVP. Where is his power running game to compliment his throwing ability? Why is Andy Reid getting a free ride? Moreover, last year Tom Jackson pointed out the fact that when Garcia took over, the run-pass ratio evened out. They were throwing more when McNabb was in at QB, but they were running more when Garcia took the steering wheel.
Philly fans: if McNabb goes down, Andy Reid should go down with him.
Mac 5: Childress, Adrian Peterson and the Vikings will be waiting on you.
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suzukijones77 said September 23, 2007

Donovan, I'm not a fan of yours or the Eagles. I didnt like Mike Vicks / Vince Young style of playing the position. I truly dont believe that style of play will ever win. I liked Brooks NO/Oak to my thinking a good pocket passer. Steve Young (didnt care for his game either) was a decent QB, yet had a different style which again was different for Vick/Young.Your style is pass, elude the rush then pass, run if you have to. I dont think its a color issue but a style issue.
I pray that the footbal gods bless the NFL with more pocket passers and the vertical game. Hang in there, I give you props on your stats and your game. Dont look back keeps moving forward to second place in the division, Go Cowboys.
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JohnHTobin said September 22, 2007

First of all, you are a jerk! If you think that the color of your skin makes you more open to criticism, then you are very insecure in yourself. You have 1 of 32 jobs that most people would die and pay for, but you're not happy because you get criticized!
You don't have to do "a little bit extra". All you have to do is do your job, and that is to win! Or, put your team in the best position to win. Nothing more, nothing less!
I don't care if you're black, white, purple, red or green.
No wait! Yes I do! I hate you because of your color. I hate you for the color you wear - Eagles Green! I am a life-long Giant's fan - a season ticket holder for 30 years - and I blead blue! I hate everything green - whether it's Jet's green or Eagle's green. That's the color I hate.
But you think I and other NFL fans, sportscasters, reporters don't like you because of your color. Grow up! Stop playing the race card!
You are criticized on the air, in the press, in bars, in our living rooms - because you didn't complete a certain pass, because you didn't get a 1st down at a critical point, because you didn't see the open man - the very same things I rage about with Eli Manning.
Every QB in every NFL city is criticized when the team doesn't win - and even when they do win! It comes with the territory! Everybody get's a certain abount of criticism on their job. You make about 200 times the average salary of the people who come to your home games - not to mention your endorsements. Yet you think they don't like you because of your skin color.
If the fans, reporters, newspaper writers criticize you, it's because of your play! Not because of the skin you're hiding behind!
I don't care if you're Peyton, Montana, Elway, Marino, Simms, Unitas (all white QB's if you haven't noticed), if you engage in dog fighting - you deserve to go to jail! If you take drugs or steriods, you deserve to be suspended and permantently put out of the game. If you commit a crime, break the law, shoot somebody, gamble (either on or against your team), or in any other way fail to abide by the rules and/or regulations stated by your employer - then you deserve to be punished - and criticized harshly!
Your "criticism" comments seem to me to be veiled references to several black NFL players who have recently been suspended, fined, charged or otherwise embarassed their families, fans, teams and owners. Your efforts would be better used in addressing these players (and soon-to-be ex-players?), and coaching them to exhibit better behavior and more self-control.
This is not about black and white - it's about right and wrong. And Donovan, you are wrong!
By the way - you are a college educated man. To quote, "It's something that I've been a part of and other quarterbacks before me and and after me have been a part of." Since when did you obtain the ability to see into the future?
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kdawg01 said September 20, 2007

Why wasn't McWhaa saying all of this during his Super Bowl run? Playing the black/white thing is the easiest thing to do-- see Isaiah Thomas. Truth is that when cowards are being beaten down they look for excuses. What's the most logical excuse for being criticized, mocked, jeered, and booed for horrible athletic play at the quarter back position? Well, it's obvious because of the color of my skin! Could Rush Limbaugh have been right?? Say it ain't so. QB's gett booed every week and the way #5 has been playing he's deserved every bit of it. His fans deserve better than to have him cry out as if he's the whipping boy of the town. If you can't take playing in Philly then leave.
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donwill said September 20, 2007

Im white, male, and 39 years old. We are getting tired of people (minorities) being "given" a job or title because of race even when they are not qualified. This leads to more issues down the road such as removing the unqualified minority from that position. The cry then becomes I was fired because people are racists. Demetrius Jones is a good example of this scenario.
Situation #2 minorities complained that they can't get home loans as easily as everyone else. They cried discrimination and threatened to sue. So they changed the rules and gave them the loans. Now they are threatening to sue because lenders gave the minorities loans they claim that the lenders knew they couldn't pay back. Do we see a pattern here or a universal excuse for a hand-out?
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- Pinkpanthrrr replied September 20, 2007
  
  WOW! What the hell is that all about? Some displaced anger buddy or what?? who is 'THEY' in your statement? Are you separating black people from the rest of the humans? that just shows how f-d up people are right now...Alert!! Angry white male on the loose! hahaha. I am sure you have it soooo tough what a baby! pull up your skirt B**#@.
  - donwill replied September 21, 2007
    
    no anger-- just the facts from someone who works for a living and doesn't look for an excuse every time I don't get my way. Fact is McNabb sux as a QB and the only reason he appeared to be a decent one was because TO was an exceptional receiver. Now TO is gone (that's another story) McNabb's true ability or, lack of, has surfaced. Some goes for Delhomme to Steve Smith and BTW he's white.
    What should the whites do? Rent 2,000 bases drive to a Philly game and protest? Wait a minute, not possible because we have jobs and a spontaneous protest march would jeopardize the jobs we have. Which is something some people can't relate to.
    McNabb said he comments without thinking, a true replica of his thinking on the field. FAILURE TO PLAN LEADS TO WHAT? THE PHILADELPHIA EAGLES!!!
    One more stat for you---- 2005: The Pro Bowl is marked by history, when Donovan McNabb led a NFC Quarterback group of Daunte Culpepper and Michael Vick into the Pro Bowl. It is the first time that all 3 QB's elected for the NFC or AFC were African Americans. What do 2 of these 3 have in common? They have been arrested and convicted of illegal activites. So how do I encourage my son to act like these great role models?
    - margeschott replied September 21, 2007
      
      Dude all it is is you woik 2 much. Dere.
- joyces replied September 21, 2007
  
  You need Jesus, history, intelligence, common sense, prayer and good judgement.
Up2NoGood said September 21, 2007

Rex Grossman is white, everybody rags his a$$. Why, you ask. Because he is average. McNabb gets shit because he is average, the nfl pimped him, just like years later, they would do to Vick. Farve-never hurt, Manning-unstoppable, Elway-2 Rings, Montana-What can't you say about him, it has nothing to do with the fact they are white. They don't get hurt much, they win, and on and off the field they don't cry. Maybe instead of complaining about non-issues, he should work on his game. Was it secretly because he was black that they drafted a white guy to replace him?
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jonhyquest said September 22, 2007

Yeah, yeah, Donovan, now you're a poor victim of the system. In your dreams you'd like to be an Steve Young (a QB's who really could pass, not as you Mr. 56% completions! oh, and also run) and not say a Jeff Garcia (people say he lacks size, he lacks arm strength, hey! the man is older than you! do you see him crying as you? or maybe because he is white that's not criticism) Criticism for not running? and you think because you're black? Just ask Drew Bledsoe about criticism for staying in the pocket and not been able tu run, also ask Jake Plummer about criticism, do you see anything black in those QB's?
Come on! Be a man!
First, improve you completions, then play the whole season (you weak), also stop crying thinking about your future (that's all this s** about beacuse you see Kolb coming) and finally do what Garcia accomplished.... Improve your teammates, not focusing on been the "Prima Donna" of Philadelphia Eagles!
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- wyen78 replied October 23, 2007
  
  Give McNabb Jerry Rice in his prime (the best WR of all time) and a team that had 10 probowlers and see how well he does. He never said he was a victim, he isn't crying about race issues, he made a comment during an interview that's all. And prima donna? I've never seen McNabb ask for preferential treatment, I've never seen him throw teammates under the bus, or place blame on the coach or any of his teammates.
  
  Drew Bledsoe got heat for being a statue in the pocket but did you once hear anyone say oh he's a white QB, no, he was just a QB who couldn't get out of the pocket. I can barely comprehend the rest of your poorly written post, it kind of meanders around and doesn't make much sense. Go back to watching old 80's cartoons on your couch while calling a professional athlete who threw 4 tds on a broken ankle...weak.
underboss2005 said October 05, 2007

Donovan McNabb is being roasted in the press because he isn't producing, much like Rex Grossman is. Both are mediocre, but one is black and the other is white. It's a crutch that Donovan McNabb can lean on that guys like Grossman can't. Michael Vick was the highest paid QB in the NFL before he became a felon. He was better paid than Tom Brady, who is 12th, I believe. Can you imagine if a black QB with 3 Super Bowl rings was the 12th highest paid QB in the league? There would be so many accusations of racism by the club who employs him, it would be crazy.
Donovan, play well and you won't get picked on. Simple as that. Terrell Owens said two years ago that you were an overrated QB, and Owens, a black man, was correct. This is a matter that needs no debate. McNabb's foolish, crybaby comments are incorrect, and a slap in the face to black athletes who actually did face racial inequality.
Who led the Eagles to the playoffs last year after McNabb laid yet another egg? Jeff Garcia. Who was shown the door in the offseason while McNabb was given the job again? Jeff Garcia. And, who's the starting QB for the suddenly-strong Tampa Bay Buccaneers? 37-year-old Jeff Garcia.
Stop crying, McNabb. You are mediocre, and you are wrong.
I will say this, though. Coaches with felonious punks as children get more abuse from the media than coaches with good kids. Right, Andy Reid?
underboss2005@yahoo.com
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PatCsaintsfan said October 06, 2007

Dear Mr. McNabb
I saw the interview on HBO and I just want to say that even though I am a saints fan, I still admire the way you play your game and the way you handle the press. Please keep up the good work and I will keep rooting for you except when you play the SAINTS. Stay strong in everything you believe in.
Pat C.
from Wilkes-Barre Pa.
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AnnyMarie said October 11, 2007

Donovan,
I have spent a lot of time reading the comments related to an article written about your HBO interview. I would first like to express my sympathy - many things that have been said are fairly abusive. In America of all places, you would think we could all talk about our experiences without such uproar. I think you have been a professional football player and the world could do worse than emulate your example. Thank you for sharing your thoughts - it is only through discussion that we can create change.
AQ
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wyen78 said October 23, 2007

There's no reason to apologize for a perspective or a point of view that you hold. They are your experiences. People just simplify things to some bottom line sound byte and fail to see the nuances in your comments. They don't understand that you have had experiences in your past that make you see things the way you do, they just wrongly assume that you are addressing them personally and calling them a racist hood wearing Klan member, when you never did.
As an asian kid growing up in Cortland NY (45 min from the Carrier Dome, I was in Highschool when you were playing ball up there, now I'm in philly) I always felt extra pressure to do well in school cause if I didn't kids would taunt that they did better than the asian kid (it may have been pressure I put on myself but it was there nonetheless). After a while even the compliments I'd receive for being "smart" didn't really feel like compliments it just felt like that's all they saw of me, some smart asian kid. I can't tell you how many times I've been asked if I knew martial arts....yes I did, but answering yes to that question always made me very uneasy, cause I knew they were only asking me cause of my race.
For people to say race is no longer an issue in america (and I've only ever heard white people proclaim this), do you read the newspaper? People are putting up nooses like it's a holiday decoration, and I'm not just talking about Jenna, there was another incident at Columbia University directed at a professor. When people talk about racism or racist remarks they are not saying that every single white person is racist. It is not a personal attack on you, but to pretend that there are no racist people in the US is silly and naive.
Again, for people who say all QBs are criticized, did you not even read McNabbs post above? He didn't say they didn't get criticized he saying that the critiques are different. I'm sure he doesn't feel that every criticism is a racist comment, just SOME of them. Like the NAACP saying he doesn't run enough, or Rush saying he's overrated, or Fred Ex calling him a company man. Perhaps McNabb feels this way because after being a stellar highschool QB a lot of schools wanted him to be a receiver or running back, they didn't think he could play the QB position.....why do you think that was? You don't have to spell it out, they thought he wasn't smart enough to do it. He was only recruited by 2 colleges to be a QB and I believe he chose Syracuse so that he'd be given an opportunity to be a pocket passer with good mobility rather than be an athlete who could also pass, plus the academics at Syracuse.
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KOOL_GREEN said December 03, 2007

This is a comment to your offensive cord. (just because I have no other way of getting a hold of staff). Tell them to put the ball into Westbrooks hands at the end of games. The last 2 games have been pathetic. I don't blame A.J.. I blame the offensive coaching staff. The Eagles are the best screen team in the NFL. They need to do that 25% of the time. Mix in a couple inside slants and playactions this team would be set. The play calling has been horrible.
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corey0429 said January 09, 2008

Mr. McNabb,
I am a huge Philly fan. I have only been a fan since your rookie year though. The reason is becuase you play there and now I love you the Eagles and the organization. I think we have one of the best head coaches and the best supporting staff in the nfl. But what fan doesnt? I wanted to comment on your most recent blog about bringing in playmakers. I do agree that we do need some more playmakers than what we have now. You have been great as a playmaker, but you have been dealing with injury more often than any other player on the team. Do you think you will be healthy enough to play the whole season next year to take advantage of a Reggie Brown, Kevin Curtis, and Brian Westbrook. Surely these "big 3" perform much better with OUR qb in the game. I do beleive that we do need a big deep threat. That possession reciever who can do it all when you throw the ball deep. I also believe that the offense needs to take a more balanced route to really effectively use #36 like the Chargers use L.T. Also every Philly fan can agree that our defense needs to get better. Our d-line has gotten extremely better. We have to soon address the age issue with the freak. But Patterson, Bunkley, and Cole are great. Spikes is a great addition to the linebacker corps but he can't play forever. Gaither showed great playmaking ability this season taking over for Trotter. But even the mad scientist said his linebacker corps was a work in progress. Soon we have to plan for the replacement of Dawkins. He is so great that I dont think he can ever be "replaced." I would love to see some defensive playmakers come in, preferably from the draft. I would also like to see the organization go get Javon Walker. We all know that he doesn't want to be in Denver anymore and I think that he would be a great fit in the offense and he would also provide you with a receiver who could be a deep threat and a excellent route runner. I'm sure you have your own list of who you would like to bring in and I hope that we do get some playmakers in the off season. If we get only one playmaker all off season I would hope that it be in the special teams area as we were horrible on that area of the game this year. I am looking forward to the off season and the start of next season. I would love to see our team get back to its dominance over the NFC EAST and return to super bowl form. I hate seeing us finish last in the division, but I hate seeing the cowboys win it even more. Especially since that former "eagle" plays there.
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Mcnabb551 said January 14, 2008

What I think that the Eagles need to do to get back on top of the division is draft a kick returner, maybe with our third round pick, and with our first and second round draft picks we need to tade for chad johnson, maybe throw in a couple of future first round draft picks, and possibly a player. If the Eagles do that we should be a lock for a playoff apearance if not a superbowl apperance, i think that mcnabb needs to enforce getting chad johnson just like he did with t.o., and maybe call up chad johnson and tell him how great philadelphia is and how passionate their fans our.
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winko19 said January 16, 2008

Don,
I listen to the radio and read the papers and it really frustrates me to hear the fans in this city kill you one week and love you the next. It's also ashame that some of them want you gone. Knowing some of your teammates and talking to them, they know how important you are to this franchise and city. Everyone said you had to have been upset when they drafted Kevin. Look at Aaron Rogers. There's a guy who expected his chance and he could retire before his predecessor. Anyway, the way I see it is that you are going to have an MVP season. Your knee will be healthy, your hand will be healthy and you'll come in to training camp at 100%. I wish you and the team the best of luck. Take care of yourself and your family and we'll see you next season.
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PHILLYSTAR said January 21, 2008

Donovan please step down. So our team we love can have a future! Why cant you win when it counts the most. The super bowl was so close defence played their hearts out. bottom line i bleed green and love eagles football more then any thing please email me back at tduckets99@yahoo.com
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- ivylily replied September 26, 2008
  
  You know, you're really a bit of an idiot. McNabb is playing some of the best football of his career. Yeah, I'm kind of prejudiced because I live very close to the McNabb's home - and to T.O.' home as well. (I'm guessing that phillystar (?!) isn't in a position to pony up the drastically reduced price on Terrell's home, which is really quite beautiful. And yes, the 'boys' did get together at his house on a quite a few occasions. We should know: we saw the cavalcade of cars. If you don't like Donovan McNabb for whatever reason, find another team to support. I am so angered by the ferocity of anger that "fans" display towards Philadelphia sports teams. It is biased, it is unfounded, and it pretty much extends to every sport associated with the word "Philadelphia". If the Eagles/Cowboys game had been played at home, the Eagles would have walked away with the win. Perhaps, Phillystar, you should consider stepping down as a "fan", or at the very least, brush up on your basic grammar. "So our team we love can have a future! Why can't you win when it counts the most." I'm guessing you might live within the city limits, if not South Philadelphia...

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