Yardbarker: DonovanMcNabb

Some Things I'm Thankful For

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:30:24 -0500

Today was my 33rd birthday and I'm so grateful for the many blessings I have received.

First of all, I have four great kids. That's right I said four. My beautiful 5-year old Alexis; my twins, Sariah and Donovan who turn one next week; and Devin James who was born last Friday night.

My wife, Raquel, whose beauty and strength I admire every day. My parents and brother who continue to be my strongest fans and my toughest critics!

My family pitched in tonight in a very big way. First of all, everything we do for the Donovan McNabb Fund is a group effort. But tonight, we really had some people help make a difference. One of our yearly goals is to help out some people around the holidays. Under Roxi's leadership, we have done that for many years. Well, with the baby being born this past weekend and our practice schedule getting ready for the Redskins, Roxi and I couldn't appear in person but had to count on a few people to help serve Thanksgiving Dinner to the families at Stenton Manor in Mt. Airy.

First off, my mother and father attended to let those in attendance know the entire McNabb family cares about them.

I must thank Danette James from Da-Network Housing who organized the event and got everybody on the same page. I also have to thank Sonny DiCrecchio and the Philadelphia Regional Produce Market for donating all the food. A special thanks go to the wives and families of some of my current and former teammates [Megan Brown (Reggie), Tammi Trotter (Jeremiah), Maggie Jean-Gillies (Max) and Loretta Runyan (Jon), and Cynthia Johnson (Darren Howard's mom)] who pitched in and served the food.

BTW - Congratulations to Jon Runyan. He signed with the San Diego Chargers yesterday and pledged to help them for the remainder of the season before retiring and seeking a career as a NJ Congressman.

Salute to the Troops

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:21:01 -0500

I wanted to take the time on Veteran's Day to give my personal salute to the men and women who protect our country. While many people talk about the "battles" that professional athletes face on game day, nothing compares to the actual battles that our veterans and the current troops face in the military. One day to honor them just doesn't seem like enough.

My father served in the Navy so I am aware of what our troops do and what they mean to this country. I will forever be thankful to these men and women.

Keep up the great work and get home safe!

Go Phillies!

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:50:03 -0500

I wanted to take the time to acknowledge the Philadelphia Phillies. They had a great season and have done great thus far in the playoffs. They are about to take part in their second straight World Series - no
easy task - and face the New York Yankees.

I have a few friends on the Phillies and hope that they can make it two Championships in a row.

While focusing on the football field, it's not always easy to appreciate the support that we - the Eagles - get from our fans. Don't
get me wrong, we feel it and appreciate it but sometimes you have to go outside your own experience to really see it. That's why I enjoy watching the Phillies. This city has come alive over the past few seasons in regards to baseball. The Phillies have given Philadelphia something special and its exciting to witness the togetherness between the team and its fans. It really is something special.

I hope I can reward our fans the same way.

Go Phillies!

Six Days Till Sunday

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 19:25:35 -0500

It's too early to tell whether I might be able to play this week due to my rib injury. Sunday is a long way away. I will work with the trainers to do my best to be ready.

Like the rest of the team, I have confidence that Kevin will do well if called upon. Adding Jeff Garcia to the roster is a great idea. He knows our offense and how we do things around here. He's a great teammate and I look forward to working with him again.

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 19:44:04 -0500

This time of year is an exciting time for football players in general. Training camps are over and the season’s about to start. For young football players it’s filled with anxiety. The last week of preseason there will be about 25 players released from each team. Some may find their way onto practice squads and other may be forced to give up their dream of playing pro football.

Other young football players are anxious for another reason…the college football season is about to start. At that level there is not preseason. The first real test for a college football program counts in the standings. Some programs you can always expect to see great things. Others make major changes in the hopes of restoring school pride.

You know where I’m going…..Syracuse University is one of those programs. With a new head coach in Doug Marrone and a new QB in Greg Paulus there is a lot to be excited about. Paulus is a grad student who lettered as a basketball player at Duke. He’s smart and has a proven track record as a leader. I’m a firm believer that basketball skill helps in football and vice versa so I’m excited about what he can bring to the Orange. This week they start the season vs. Minnesota. I don’t know much about the Gophers but starting off against a Big 10 school won’t be easy. Let’s get it started the right way….Go Orange!

Another group of young football players who are excited about the calendar turning to September are the high school kids. I met one the other night following the Jaguars preseason game. Tamaric Richardson is an OL/DL who plays for Simon Gratz, although he attends Engineering & Science for his classes. He was the first recipient of my ticket giveaway this year. Brian Dawkins initiated the program last year and I thought it was too good to end. Philadelphia area coaches nominate their best players in terms of their work in the classroom and on the field and their character as well. It was nice to met Tamaric and his mom following the game.

How and Why it Happened

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:05:24 -0500

I’ve been asked, and before it’s all over I’ll probably be asked again, what was my involvement in Michael Vick coming to the Eagles. Here’s what I know:

Michael and I have known each other since the time I was asked to host him on his visit to Syracuse University. Anybody that’s ever been through that knows that current college athletes are asked to spend time with possible recruits who are similar or share something in common (play the same position, come from the same part of the country, etc.). During that time, I had a chance to get to know Michael pretty well. And, although he decided to go to Virginia Tech, we kept in touch and remained friends.

Fast forward to today – I know what Michael was accused and convicted of and I don’t like it at all. I have had dogs all my life and consider myself a dog-lover. I am in no way excusing Michael for what happened but he was punished for his crime. He served his time and, at least I believe, has learned from it. I believe Michael is a changed person and that he deserves a chance at putting his life back together. A life, now, that will include being an activist to stop cruelty to animals.

In mid-July before training camp started, I asked Coach Reid if we would be interested in having Michael join the Eagles and explained why I thought it would be good for both Michael and the team (Andy and I have an understanding that we will never discuss the details of our private exchanges). There was another time during camp where the subject was brought up again by me. It was not until Kevin Kolb was injured last Monday that I was given any indication that something might happen with Michael.

I wanted Michael to come to Philadelphia and, in any way he can, help bring a Super Bowl championship to the City. There is no doubt he is a uniquely talented player that can add to our offensive weapons. For him personally, I want to see him continue to grow as a person, spend time with his family and re-establish himself as a leader on and off the field. Due to the nature of what happened and the attention it has received, it may not always be easy for him but he seems up for the challenge. Fortunately, with a tremendous individual like Tony Dungy in his corner, he will have the support he needs.

I thank Andy for considering my suggestion. I also thank Mr. Lurie for taking the time to talk with Michael and making what he thought was a very difficult decision.

Michael now admits he did a horrible thing – he’s not making excuses or asking for forgiveness. He only wants an opportunity to prove he’s a changed person and to help others.

Rest in Peace Jim

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 10:11:58 -0500

First, let me pass on my condolences to Vicky Johnson and the rest of her family after the passing of her husband Jim. While he was a hell of a football coach, he was certainly much more than that. In sports, we are taught to move on quickly after a lost game or injured teammate, but this type of loss will hurt forever.

Many people might wonder what kind of impact a defensive coordinator might have on a quarterback. I can’t speak for all those relationships but I can speak about Jim and me. Afterall, in my entire 10 year career I’ve only had one defensive coordinator. That itself is rare. We have shared many ups and downs. From my rookie season where he blitzed me to death in practice. I said it then and will repeat it again, going against Jim’s defense in practice prepared me for ANYTHING I may ever see in a game. It was the best learning experience a young QB could ask for.

Although we haven’t experienced our dream of winning a Super Bowl, we won a lot of games together. There was never a game that we went into that I didn’t think we could win because I believed that Jim could shut down the opponent. I think back to my rookie year against the “Greatest Show on Turf,” the last game of the season when the Rams won the Super Bowl. I was a rookie coming back from an injury and they were clearly the best team in the NFL. We went in and beat them that day.

That was just the beginning. The following years provided many other terrific memories.

My lasting memory of Jim will be one of an older guy with a young spirit. He inspired many people both whom he came in contact with and just the ones who knew him from the product he put on the field. He will certainly be missed.

Getting Ready

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:09:54 -0500

Last week from Monday through Friday, I had the opportunity to work out with many of my teammates here in Arizona. Many of the skill position players were here and we had a few defensive players as well. Adding to the workouts were a few players from the Packers, Jets and Cardinals.

This is a great way for my teammates to share my regiment that I go through in AZ throughout the offseason. I try to do it with them right before training camp so that we can get used to the heat, know what to expect, and get a jump on the other teams.

From sun up to sun down we are taking different measures to prepare our bodies for a long, grueling season. We start at Fischer Sports for some drills and training. I’ve worked with Brett Fischer for a few years now and like the way he challenges me and trains me to be strong and flexible at the same time. Then it’s off to the gym for some weight lifting. The afternoon is set aside for stretching and/or massages – some guys just like to go back to their rooms and grab a nap. At 5:00pm we go to one of the local high schools and do some passing drills. The additional defensive players this year helped create some competition which made the drills more challenging while adding some fun too.

One of the side benefits is the camaraderie that is built from getting the guys together. On Thursday night we had some BBQ at my house and everyone had a chance to relax, enjoy some good food (we catered!), and spend time with each other.

We’ll know soon enough if that work pays off!

RIP - MJ

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:06:14 -0500

Like most of the rest of the world I am devastated by the news of Michael Jackson’s death. Ironically, I am in Los Angeles for a few days between shooting a commercial and attending a teammate’s wedding this weekend.

Those who have followed my career know that I am a huge fan of the King of Pop. After many of my touchdowns, I have moonwalked or mimicked some of his moves – before you get ready to criticize those moves on a post, know that even I understand I couldn’t hold a candle to Michael when it comes to dancing. My dances were a mere tribute to Michael’s unbelievable ability to entertain.

Many times we are reminded at someone’s death that “there will never be another one like him/her.” In this case, those words couldn’t be more true.

My condolences go out to his children, his immediate family, and his extended family of millions around the world.

My Thoughts and Prayers for Gary Papa

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 22:09:11 -0500

I am so saddened by the loss of Gary Papa who succumbed to prostate cancer this morning. My deepest sympathy goes out to his wife and children, his family at 6ABC, and the people in the region who counted on him and invited him into their homes each night.

Gary was a very special man; very genuine. He was able to do his job of reporting the sports news and he did it in a way that showcased the fan in him. I think that’s what touched most of his viewers – that he followed and supported the same teams they did.

I knew Gary wasn’t well and I asked about him often through others at the station. I called him personally last week and left a message although I will forever regret not being able to speak to him directly.

Gary fought a tremendous battle that reflected his character. To appear on television after chemotherapy with his head shaved standing strong and confident…… He loved life and was willing to do anything to keep his.

Philadelphia has lost a couple of icons in the broadcasting field already this year. Let’s all cherish those memories and pray for their families.

Busy Time of Year

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:09:13 -0500

Time to check in again. I wanted to make sure that I reach out and communicate directly with you guys as we get ready for a couple of weeks of team practices. Things are going well for me this offseason – still working hard in Arizona (although I took a brief golf vacation with my family about a week ago. We get very competitive!).

I returned to Philadelphia late last week and got a workout in at NovaCare. I was able to catch up with some of the rookies who were here for a few extra sessions to get up to speed. Although I didn’t see their workouts, the buzz in the building is that everyone is working hard and learning the playbook. It will be good to all work together for the next couple weeks and I’m hopeful that a few of them will be able to make it to Arizona in July to get some extra work in together before reporting to training camp.

I love this time of year. Besides the two weeks of our football practices, June has also been a time for me and my Foundation and also the Eagles organization to try to make a difference in the Philadelphia community. Every year the team re-builds a playground at a local school for EYP. The Donovan McNabb Foundation, that we established 10 years ago, will hold a free football clinic for kids this Saturday. Later this month the Donovan McNabb Diabetes Camp for Kids run by the ADA will take place for the seventh year. June is also the month of Father’s Day which takes on an added meaning this year. First off I now have three great kids. As a reminder of how lucky I am, I will receive the Father of the Year Award from the American Diabetes Association next week.

I don’t take any of these things lightly nor do I take them for granted. I am truly blessed.

My Thoughts on a Couple of Friends

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:03:19 -0500

My thoughts and prayers go out to Jim Johnson as he battles through another round of chemotherapy to deal with cancer. Jim is one of the toughest men I’ve come across and although he has a tough battle ahead, no one is going to fight harder.

I am happy that Michael Vick has served his time and will now be afforded the opportunity to move on with his life. I’m sure he will continue to be remorseful and will learn from his experiences. Hopefully he will have the opportunity to continue his dream of playing professional football.

Looking Forward

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 10:39:57 -0500

It's been a terrific offseason for me. I have spent most of my time in Arizona with my wife and three kids. Having a chance to be a dad - going to my daughter's soccer games and dance recitals, and seeing the babies grow and develop; there is nothing better than that. I am truly blessed and fortunate that the American Diabetes Association will honor me and two other men in June as Father of the Year. But I'm not the only McNabb that is blessed...Saturday night my parents will be honored by the Allied Athlete Group in Atlanta for their work with the Professional Football Players Mothers and National Football Players Fathers Associations. And on Saturday my wife will hold her annual Philadelphia Community Baby Shower for expectant mothers.

Make no mistake, I've been training like crazy to make sure that I can improve as a quarterback and do everything necessary to try and win a championship for this city. I said it before, I was inspired by the way the Phillies won the World Series and how they were treated by the City and their fans and I want to experience that myself in the worst way.

Now down to some football talk.....

You'll notice that I am ready to move forward. I'm the first to admit that you must learn from your failures, I also believe that you cannot change the past. It's time to focus on the future.

As with every minicamp since I've been in the league, I'm excited about meeting my new teammates, getting to know them and working together on the field. We now have a lot of new, young skill position players and it will be exciting and interesting to see how they become acclimated to what we do here. If they can come in here and take their game to the next level, they will be productive pros and we can achieve great successes together. I want to welcome the new rookies and am excited to get to work with them.

I haven't taken the time yet to welcome some of the veteran free agents to the team. I'm looking forward to working with a new set of bookends on the o-line. Stacey Andrews and Jason Peters are young, athletic and physical. They will help in both the passing and running game. The same can be said for fullback Leonard Weaver. As for the additions on defense - Ellis Hobbs, Rashad Baker, and Sean Jones - I can't wait to see how Jim Johnson uses all the talent he has at his disposal.

I want to congratulate all the newcomers and let them know that I am excited to be working with them and taking the first step towards moving forward and getting something accomplished.

RIP, Harry

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 15:31:43 -0500

It's a sad day in Philadelphia. The Voice of the Phillies, Harry Kalas, has passed away. Like many others, I am saddened and have my own personal experience to share.

In one of my first few years in Philadelphia I was fortunate enough to meet Harry at an awards ceremony - I think it was the Wanamaker Awards. While I didn't know him at the time as the Voice of the Phillies, I was in awe of his regal voice from NFL and MLB highlight shows. At that awards event I listened to people talk about Harry in such endearing terms, that he touched so many lives. It was easy for me to see what so many others had already known. From that point forward, listening to his voice had taken on new meaning for me.

RIP, Harry

Philadelphia Community Baby Shower

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 20:08:38 -0500

Time for a quick update from Arizona. While I am taking a mental break from the long season, physically I'm working hard and getting ready for the 2009 football season.

I want to take this time to support my wife with one of her public activities. She is always there to support me and since I cannot be at her May 2 event due to Eagles minicamp, I wanted her to know that I support her in every way. She hosted a wonderful Community Baby Shower last year in Philadelphia and has another one coming up on May 2. If you are a pregnant woman or mother of a newborn - or know someone who is - tell them about it. Here's the press release......

2nd ANNUAL PHILADELPHIA COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER

Mrs. Raquel McNabb and the Nurses at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

Host New and Expectant Mothers in Celebration, Preparation, and Care of Their Newborns

On Saturday, May 2, 2009, Mrs. Raquel McNabb and the Nurses at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) will host the Second Annual Philadelphia Community Baby Shower at the Penn Ice Rink (3130 Walnut Street) in Philadelphia.

The idea of a community baby shower first occurred to Mrs. McNabb in 2007 after a conversation about the needs of uninsured mothers with her sister, a nurse practitioner. "I grew up in Canada where there is socialized medicine," said Raquel in October, 2007, the date of the first Philadelphia Community Baby Shower. "I grew up knowing that people had health insurance. If you got pregnant, you went to the doctor. Here, in America, I think that's lacking."

That first event was a rousing success - nearly 1,500 mothers showed up in 2007, ten-times what was projected. This time around, a bigger venue is needed and more sponsors and volunteers are being counted on to participate.

Raquel is married to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb and the couple have three children of their own - four-year old Alexis and four-month old twins, Sariah and Donovan Jr. "Some women do not have health insurance and some do not have the means to provide some extras for their kids," said Raquel. "The Community Baby Shower, with the help of the HUP nurses, sponsors and many volunteers, and organized by Da-Network Housing, will be able to provide some advice, guidance, and gifts, so that these children might enjoy a better start. Although many women will have a chance to walk away with prizes, everyone attending will be afforded the opportunity to learn what an amazing life-altering experience motherhood is and how to best utilize the available resources to give their child a healthier life."

The event runs from 11:30am - 3:00pm and will consist of lectures led by the HUP nurses and information on topics such as prenatal care, post-partum depression, shaken baby syndrome, safe sleep, healthy eating, first aid, and health coverage. There will be contests and giveaways of special prizes including cribs, car seats, and gift baskets donated by sponsors led by Penn Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Babies-R-Us, Keystone Mercy, ShopRite, Philadelphia Regional Produce Market and the Donovan McNabb Foundation.

Those wishing to pre-register can do so by visiting www.danetworkhousing.org. Registration on the day of the event begins at 11:00am.