Six-time Pro Bowl star Donovan McNabb was officially introduced as a Washington Redskin on Tuesday saying he is looking forward to a new challenge despite being forced out of Philadelphia.
“They’re rebuilding and going young,” McNabb said of the Eagles. “I never knew 33 years was old, but I guess I’m too old.”
Holding up a burgundy No. 5 Redskins’ jersey, quarterback McNabb said he would rather be getting ready for a 12th season with the Eagles but he is going to make the most of this opportunity.
PHOTO: AFP
But when asked if the rug had been pulled out from under him in Philadelphia with Monday’s trade, McNabb said: “It did.”
“We had two young guys on the outside, a very effective tight end, a young running back, [Brian] Westbrook was coming off an injury, the offensive line was trying to jell, we were mixing guys in, and some guys were hurt,” McNabb said. “But they moved in another direction. There’s nothing I can do on that particular point.”
This is a new chapter in his life, he said.
“Sometimes change is better. Sometimes you’re forced into change. I would have loved to [stay in Philadelphia], but it didn’t happen,” he said.
The Eagles received two draft picks in return for McNabb, who added he has no hard feelings toward his former team.
“I felt I was treated fair,” he said.
Asked what kind of reception he expects when he plays his first game in Philadelphia in a rival uniform, McNabb said, “hopefully cheers.”
“I don’t look at it any different than playing the Giants or Dallas,” McNabb said. “It’s an opportunity for us to play another team.”
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