Eagles QB McNabb Says He'll Play Against Bucs
Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb set to make return from cracked rib against Buccaneers
Donovan McNabb is ready to pull on the No. 5 gameday jersey, take the snap, drop back and throw the ball downfield.
McNabb plans to start when Philadelphia plays Tampa Bay on Sunday, his first action since breaking his rib in the season opener. McNabb still feels some discomfort and needs a protective jacket to absorb punishing hits.
"You're talking about one of the all-time greats playing quarterback," coach Andy Reid said Wednesday. "Somebody who has been here a long time and when it's all said and done will be one of the all-time greatest to play that position. It's always good to get that kind of a player back in there."
This time, McNabb will have Michael Vick to help out.
McNabb hasn't played since he took a hard shot in the end zone after a rushing touchdown Sept. 13 in a win over the Carolina Panthers. He missed two games before the Eagles (2-1) had their bye this past weekend.
"The bye week came at the right time and gave me an opportunity to get back out there this week," McNabb said.
McNabb practiced on Wednesday and should have his familiar, and banged-up, running back behind him. Reid said Brian Westbrook also should be able to play on Sunday. Westbrook, who practiced Wednesday, sat out the Eagles' last game with a knee injury.
McNabb still feels some discomfort when he laughs, coughs or sleeps on his side. Extended periods of sitting and standing are also uncomfortable for the five-time Pro Bowl quarterback, who doesn't expect to be fully recovered for another two to four weeks.
"I don't think I'll be going through this deal for weeks," he said. "In due time, it will heal up and get back to 100 percent. As far as right now, it's something you battle with and continue to grind, but it's nothing that will restrict me in any way."
Kevin Kolb, who threw for 327 yards against Kansas City and 391 against New Orleans in his two starts, returns to his backup role. He was the first quarterback in NFL history to throw for 300-plus yards in his first two starts.
