| Philadelphia Eagles guard Evan Mathis is willing to play center for a depleted offensive line. (US Presswire) |
He’s never played the position before, at least not in a real game. But Evan Mathis said he’s willing and able to play center for the Eagles, whose offensive line has been hit by another wave of injuries.
Mathis is the only member of the O-line to play every game this season, but now there’s a good chance he’ll have to move from his regular spot at left guard and take over at center since starter Dallas Reynolds -- who took over for injured Jason Kelce -- hasn’t practiced all week because of a sprained ankle and probably won’t play Sunday night against Dallas.
“I feel pretty comfortable there,’’ Mathis said. “It’ll take a couple of days in practice, a few more reps there, and I’ll get more and more comfortable and acclimated.”
Mathis has played other line positions, but this is the first time he’s had to make line calls, not to mention snapping the ball between his legs with a 290-pound defensive tackle over his head.
“Mechanically, it's a little bit different than playing the other spots,’’ Mathis said. “It just takes a little getting used to.”
Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said Mathis has the football savvy to switch positions.
“We have excellent confidence in Evan,’’ he said. “The reasons why is, first of all, he’s a really good player. Second of all, he’s a sharp man. We’ve had several blitz meetings already and he’s got it down that way with that part of it.”
The Eagles could have gone with reserve Matt Tennant, who is listed as No. 2 at center on the depth chart, and just changed one position instead of two, but the coaches decided to go with experience over expertise.
“That’s a good question,’’ Mornhinweg said when asked about Tennant. “We’re trying to get the best five guys. [Mathis] has practiced there and he has been with us. He knows all of the calls and all of those things. That’s the best thing to do at this point going into a road game. Certainly, there were some thoughts about a lot of different combinations.”
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