The Philadelphia Eagles have chosen Michael Vick to start in their first preseason game Friday night against the New England Patriots, according to ESPN.com.
Chip Kelly doesn’t want anyone to read too much into the decision. He simply told reporters that Vick got the start because it was his turn in the quarterback rotation.
In addition, the Eagles head coach said the choice was not made based on Vicks’ and Foles’ performance in training camp.
"We do have to have someone start the game, but I wouldn't say that the guy who starts the game is going to be the starter overall or in general as we get going on Sept. 9 ," Kelly said. (The Eagles play the Washington Redkins in the regular season opener on "Monday Night Football" Sept. 9)
Foles will also get to take snaps with the first team offense on Friday and start the Eagles second preseason game. Rookie QB Matt Barkely will enter the game behind Foles and Vick.
Chip Kelley has maintained his message that the quarterback competition is still even and that no one has gained an edge, leaving fans and experts with only the ability to speculate.
In other Eagles news, wide receiver Riley Cooper returned to Eagles practice Tuesday. Cooper has had an unwanted spotlight cast on him in the media following the racially insensitive comments he made at a Kenny Chesney concert.
On Wednesday, Vick said everything was “back to normal,” according to NFL.com.
"We understand the severity of it but ... want to move forward," said Vick.
"I'm so proud of my teammates because of their resolve," Vick said despite reports that some teammates want nothing to do with Cooper. "In tough situations and tough times, you have to be able to persevere and kind of become bigger than the situation, so to speak ... I respect these guys because they understand the bigger picture."
