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Eagles vs. Bears
Sunday, November 22
NBC, 8:20 PM ET
Radio: 94 WYSP/610 WIP
Sirius: 127
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PhiladelphiaEagles.com
» News
» Jason Avant Player Profile
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Jason Avant doesn't say all that much.
Avant is a devout Christian, a quietly understated player who isn't prone to hyperbole or showboating. His stats from 2007 don't say all that much either; 23 catches for 267 yards and two touchdowns.
But just like Avant's quiet demeanor belies his intelligence and intensity, his numbers don't do justice to what was a productive season.
Avant is not the fastest receiver, nor the biggest, but his overall athleticism and toughness make him a special teams standout. In addition to his efforts covering kickoffs, Avant also made a huge impact in the return game, where he led the Eagles in special teams blocks.
But while special teams coordinator Rory Segrest undoubtedly enjoyed Avant's quiet efficiency on special teams, offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg would probably like to see more out of the former Michigan standout on offense.
In the early going, it appeared as though Avant was destined to be a major contributor in the passing game.
Part of Avant's inability to string together consistent production may be due to his role within the Eagles offense. With Reggie Brown and Kevin Curtis firmly entrenched outside, the coaching staff shoehorned Avant into the role of slot receiver for most of the season.
In the NFL, slot men are usually more in the mold of Curtis; guys who can catch the ball on quick slants or other short routes and use their speed to pick up big yards after the catch. Avant's game is more built around his precise rout running, good hands, and physicality.
Still, the two-time Biletnikoff Award candidate certainly showed enough this season to suggest that as he continues to grown as an NFL player, he could be a productive part of Philadelphia's passing attack.
- JUSTIN KUNKEL
NOTE: PhiladelphiaEagles.com will not profile players scheduled to become unrestricted free agents.
Avant took a nice jump from a rookie who was hardly used to a second-year player who caught 23 passes, scored a couple of touchdowns and was the primary slot receiver in the passing game.
He should only improve as he gets stronger and learns the nuances of coverages and finding openings. Avant is a physical receiver with excellent hands. He has quick feet, runs sharp routes and uses his body well. While not a speed receiver down the field, Avant has a chance to give this offense a nice weapon in tight spaces. He is a willing blocker, a good special teams player and someone whose profile should continue to rise in a passing game that needs some improvement in the year to come.
| Date | Program | Time (ET) | |
| 11/22 |  |
Kickoff Show! | 7:30 PM |
| 11/22 | |
Post-Game Show | 11:30 PM |
| 11/23 | |
Eagles Live! | 11:00 AM |
