The Philadelphia Eagles kick off the regular season this Sunday versus the Cleveland Browns. The team’s starting right guard, Brandon Brooks, took time out of his busy schedule to sit down and interview with me about the upcoming season.
Brooks offered his take on Eagles rookie quarterback, Carson Wentz, along with his feelings about the offensive line heading into 2016.
Alright Brandon, you’ve answered many questions this week about Carson, but what have you seen from him so far in terms of picking up where Sam left off? Is this a guy you can see lead this team?
“Yes he’s definitely a natural born leader but also brings his own swag with him,” Brooks said. “Carson has been doing everything right. Seeing the blitzes, reading coverages given, and getting in extra early to watch film.”
This is obviously your first season in Philadelphia, but you’ve dealt with quarterback change in Houston. Does the transition from Bradford to Wentz change the way the offensive line game plans or is it still the same?
“Still the same.”
How do you feel the chemistry is along the offensive line? I know the first-team got some reps in during the preseason, but do you feel each of you guys are on the same page in terms of where the team wants the starting unit to be?
“I feel good about the chemistry. I think we work well together,” Brooks said. “Yeah I think we’ve worked together long enough to be working as a cohesive unit and yes we’re where we need to be.”
I know as a player you can’t have issues like this on your mind, but with Lane Johnson’s reported pending suspension how do you feel about Allen Barbre next to you protecting the right side of the line?
“I think both bring different things to the table but both are good players. I’m comfortable with either one,” Brooks said. “While Al was next to me he did a tremendous job and our communication was solid too.”
Last time we talked you were still new to the city and the team. You’ve gotten a way better impression of Doug as coach, so what are your thoughts on him now?
“Same as last time. An energetic, extremely knowledgable coach that the players respond to well,” Brooks said. “If things are slacking or aren’t going right he’ll definitely make sure we do it until we get it correct.”
What’s been your thoughts on the rookie offensive lineman Isaac Seumalo and Halapoulivaati Vaitai so far? They looked very solid in the preseason and as a veteran offensive lineman you’d know more than the fans would about their progression.
“Both are young, athletic, smart players,” Brooks said. “Big V has done a great job and so has Isaac. They constantly are watching film and asking questions to elevate their game.”
Philadelphia was completely shocked when the Bradford trade was announced. What was your initial reaction?
“Well we found out like you guys too so shocked as well,” Brooks said. “Sam was a great guy and quarterback as well. I think Carson is ready to take over though.”
I just wanted to personally thank Brandon for taking time out of his schedule to interview with me. If you haven’t followed him on Twitter yet, I highly recommend you do @bbrooks_79. He’s always interacting with the fans and would love to hear your support for the Eagles!
