The issue is over whether Dawkins can play with the same gusto and fire that has made him one of the league's best safeties over the past decade. At 35, he's most certainly on the back end of his career, and the drop-off for a player who not only inflicts pain but incurs it could be steep and sudden.
So far, neither Dawkins' side nor the Eagles have said much publicly about how things will turn out, although sources close to the team believe that it's almost inevitable that Dawkins will return to the Eagles for at least one more year, possibly two.
seven-time Pro Bowler, Dawkins' play appeared to be leveling off early last season. But he finished strong and again became the rock on the back end of the Eagles' third-ranked defense. Although he has only two interceptions the past two seasons and missed six games in 2007 with a neck injury, Dawkins showed he still has a knack for playmaking with his six forced fumbles in 2008. He also added three sacks ? his highest total since '05.
Dawkins is in terrific physical condition and knows when to use that extra reserve in his tank in tough games. He comes mentally prepared to play each week and knows the Eagles' defense inside and out, much like a coach. He has range and can play in the box as an extra run defender. Dawkins is a sure tackler with a little thump, and he has good ball skills when he's in the area to make a play. Emotionally speaking, Dawkins ? more so than McNabb ? is the heartbeat of the Eagles and a tremendous leader who makes the players around him better.
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