So far, give the edge to the defense

Despite the steamy conditions, the Eagles have looked remarkably in shape. And in the early going of training camp, give the defensive the edge over the offense.

Even in one-on-one drils, where the defensive backs are all alone against wide receivers, the Birds defenders have more than held their own.

Of course there have been some strong offensive plays and it appears as if two running backs are taking advantage of the absence of Brian Westbrook, now in his fourth day of his holdout.

Bruce Perry, the former George Washington High standout where he was The Inquirer's Offensive player of the year as a senior, ripped off a long run in Thursday morning's practice.

Perry missed all of last year with a shoulder injury that required surgery, but he says he is healthy and looking forward to the competition.

Another intersting player is Ryan Moats, the rookie running back and third-round draft choice from Louisiana Tech.

Moats is generously listed at 5-foot-8 and 210-pounds, but he uses his small frame to his advantage, hiding behind blockers and then darting out to turn the corner.

Like most of the rookies, he is feeling is way through this camp and getting adjusted to the speed of the game against the veterans.

The other rookie who is drawing raves is wide receiver Reggie Brown, the second-round pick from Georgia.

At 6-1 and 187-pounds, Brown has good size and speed. What he's finding is that going against an NFL defensive backfield, especially one with three all-pros such as the Eagles, is a big adjustment.

- Marc Narducci