|
|
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brian Westbrook, the Philadelphia Eagles' leading scorer with 13 touchdowns, could miss the playoffs because of a torn triceps muscle.
Head trainer Rick Burkholder said Sunday it's almost certain the versatile running back will need surgery, but there's a possibility the speedy running back could wait until after the season.
Burkholder said
the team's doctors recommended season-ending surgery, but told Westbrook to
get at least one other opinion. A decision on his treatment will be made later
in the week.
Westbrook split time with Correll Buckhalter and Duce Staley this season, and
was Philadelphia's main punt returner. Reno Mahe or James Thrash would return
punts if Westbrook can't play, and Staley and Buckhalter would share the running
back duties.
Westbrook was injured in the first half of a 31-7 victory over the Washington Redskins on Saturday night. The Eagles (12-4) clinched the No.1 seed in the NFC on Sunday, thanks to Detroit's victory over St. Louis.
Westbrook had 613 yards rushing on 117 carries and seven TDs. He also had 37 receptions for 332 yards and four TDs and returned two punts for scores.
Westbrook was injured when
he was dragged down by linebacker Jeremiah Trotter for a 2-yard loss on his
last play handling the ball.