An injury to Takeo Spikes opened up the door for Stewart Bradley. And he didn't disappoint. The rookie LB from Nebraska saw extended playing time after Middle Linebacker Omar Gaither also left Sunday's game against the Saints. He registered a sack and an interception, as well as 6 tackles, including two key stops on a goal line stand.
Akeem Jordan also saw extended playing time. Playing at the WILL spot, he collected 5 tackles.
Now here is the problem. The Eagles defense only plays three linebackers at a time. Should Bradley and Jordan continue their solid play, the Eagles will have five linebackers wanting playing time. With Chris Gocong penciled in as the SAM and playing well, Bradley may push him for playing time. Or Gaither at MIKE who has played well also. Spikes is in an option year. The Eagles should keep him next year. He adds the veteran leadership this young linebacking crew needs.
Gaither has collected 94 tackles in his first year at MIKE. Spikes has 86. Gocong has 63. All three have played well.
The different scenarios are this:
Gocong- SAM - Gaither - MIKE - Spikes - WILL
Gocong - SAM - Bradley - MIKE - Gaither - WILL
Bradley - SAM - Gaither - MIKE - Spikes -WILL
Bradley -SAM - Gaither - MIKE - Jordan - WILL
Gocong - SAM - Gaither - MIKE - Jordan - WILL
There are all kinds of options for Jim Johnson. The linebackers are young and hungry. It is a good problem to have indeed.
