The absence of four of the five projected starting offensive linemen from the Colts game has been well documented, but all signs point to the group getting healthier and ready for the regular season opener on September 13th against the Panthers.

Left tackle Jason Peters returned to practice this afternoon and Stacy Andrews, who has been practicing in all non-contact drills all preseason, said he expects to be on the field this Thursday night against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

"You don't want to rush it," Andrews said. "I knew (the Jaguars game) would be the one where I'd be out there."

Andrews also said he's feeling much more acclimated to the Eagles offense, as well as the right guard position, after playing primarily right tackle in Cincinnati.

"I feel a lot more comfortable with the plays and the playcalling," he said. "I've played right guard, left guard and right tackle, so it doesn't take too long to get back into the groove of things."

When asked if he believes his brother Shawn thinks he'll be ready for the season opener, Stacy Andrews replied positively.

"No doubt," he said.

And Shawn Andrews confirmed that notion when he spoke to reporters.

"I think there's a great chance that I could be out there (for opening day)," Andrews said.

Andrews said he's been pushing himself after receiving encouraging news from his back specialist in California, Dr. Bob Watkins, and he can't wait to get back on the field. He joked that his itch to get back on the football field is so big that he's "gone through about 20 bottles of calamine lotion."

"I'm so anxious to be out there," Andrews said, "But at the same time I have to be smart about it.

"Right now, I'm pushing myself, and it's day-to-day right now. It's definitely getting better. It's heading in the right direction."

As for his position switch, Shawn Andrews said he's been working closely with offensive line coach Juan Castillo and he feels good at right tackle.

"I feel very comfortable there," he said. "It's become natural for me."

Todd Herremans, starting left guard who has been sidelined with a stress reaction in his foot, is expected to be ready for opening day as well.

-- Posted by Bo Wulf, 1:51 p.m., August 22