Eagles’, Carson Wentz’ success depend on Sam Bradford’s cooperation

The Eagles return to the field Tuesday for their second week of OTAs and the temperature seems to have gone back to its regular level at the NovaCare Complex, especially with regard to the Birds’ three quarterbacks.

To this point, and going forward (at least into training camp), head coach Doug Pederson will keep giving Sam Bradford, Chase Daniel and Carson Wentz equal reps with the first, second and third units, respectively.

And Bradford hopes to impart some productive quarterback wisdom on the developing Wentz as workouts continue.

“I understand what it’s like to be in his position,” Bradford told the media last week.”When I came in as a rookie, I had A.J. Feeley in St. Louis with me and he was great. He taught me a lot. He really kind of took me under his wing … I’m not going to try to hide anything. I’m going to try to help Carson. If he asks questions, I’m going to give him the best answers that I can. I love seeing quarterbacks succeed in this league and if I can do something to help him become a better player, I’m going to do it.”

Before all the drama (with Bradford demanding a trade and later returning to the team and rescinding his stringent request), that is exactly what Pederson and the Eagles’ brass had in mind. It seems Bradford is finally saying all the right things — playing Philadelphia’s tune.

“I was brought here by Andy Reid to do a job and [the Eagles] drafted Donovan McNabb, so I understand the situation,” Pederson said, looking back to 1999.”I get the feelings. I get the emotions.But at the same time we’re professionals about it and I’ve told Sam all along and I’ve told you guys all along that he’s my guy. I’m not looking back over my shoulder, and the message to him was the same thing.”

The success of the future of the Eagles’ franchise, and that of Wentz, depends a lot on the cooperativeness of Bradford. For all of his flaws on the field, injury woes and bad luck, having him as a mentor is a huge asset for the Eagles and for Wentz. This is particularly true when paired with Pederson’s leadership, Daniel’s two cents as the Birds’ backup andthe talented offensive coaching staff (Frank Reich, JohnDeFilippo, etc.).

“I think if I wasn’t willing to do that, I think that’s just not having a great respect for the game,” Bradford said. “I think that’s how this is. I think it’s the job of older players in this league to try to help the younger guys out.I was very fortunate when I was younger to have someone who did that for me, and I think it’s only right that I fill that role now.”