Who's looked good so far ... and not so

Reports out of Lehigh indicate that rookie lineman Mike Patterson has been impressive in early action against the vets, as has first-year receiver Reggie Brown, who was singled out today by All-Pro safety Brian Dawkins for his work ethic. Ex-Eagle Mike Quick agreed, telling Eagles flack Dave Spadaro: "(He) is great getting off the jam. I like that kid. I can see him starting next year."

Among those expected to take on a bigger role this season, second-year lineman Shawn Andrews looks every bit as massive, and impressive, as he did as a rookie last year before being felled by a broken leg in the first preseason game and missing the entire 2004 campaign. The Eagles top pick in the 2004 draft, the 6-foot-4, 340-pound Andrews almost immediately moved into the starting lineup at last year's camp.

N.D. Kalu, coming off a torn ACL in last year's preseason, has demonstrated good pass-rushing quickness off the line, according to Spadaro.

As you might expect, the biggest hits have been delivered by linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, but the Eagles are still easing into the full-contact approach to these sessions, since it's early and the sweltering heat clearly is a factor.

This is considered by many to be a make-or-break camp for third-year receiver Billy McMullen, but he showed the inconsistency that has plagued him throughout his brief pro career. The Daily News reported that he made a spectacular, one-handed grab along the sideline, only to be followed later by an interception he gift-wrapped to Rod Hood by batting the ball into the air.

Finally, Thursday still brings no word from holdout running back Brian Westbrook, extending his unexpected absence to four days and his fines to $24,000.