Eagles G Andrews reports to training camp after 17-day absence
NFL.com Wire Reports
BETHLEHEM, Pa. -- Philadelphia Eagles guard Shawn Andrews reported to training camp Sunday afternoon after missing the first 17 days for unexcused personal reasons.
Andrews told two newspapers last week that he was battling depression, which he said started a year ago and had worsened. He told The Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Daily News that he had decided to seek professional help and was on medication.
Andrews has been removed from the reserve/did-not-report-list and placed on the active/physically-unable-to-perform-list. It is uncertain when the two-time Pro Bowl selection will practice.
"I want to see him first before I make any judgment there," coach Andy Reid said. "I know he's been working out, but I just want to sit down and talk to him face to face and make sure everything's set up for him here so he can be successful."
Reid said he and Andrews had a lengthy conversation Saturday.
"He wants to come back," Reid said. "I'm sure there's some apprehension there, but I know he wants to get back going, get back up here with the guys."
Andrews told the newspapers he had been fined $15,000 for each day missed, but the team could elect to rescind the fines. He did not speak to reporters Sunday.
Cornerback Asante Samuel returned to practice after being sidelined since July 26 by a strained hamstring. Samuel was hurt while working in 7-on-7 drills during the team's first practice in full pads this summer. He participated in about three-quarters of Sunday's practice.
"We took him out (and are) just easing him back in," Reid said. "He feels good, and I want to make sure he keeps feeling good."
Reid said there was a chance Samuel could participate in the preseason home opener against Carolina on Thursday.
Samuel, who did not speak with reporters, signed a six-year, $57 million contract with the Eagles after spending his first five seasons with New England. He missed time during the team's workouts in June with a strained left hamstring.
Notes: To make room on the roster for Andrews, the Eagles released rookie offensive lineman Franklin Dunbar. The Eagles also released veteran defensive tackle Kimo von Oelhoffen and signed rookie defensive tackle Mike Marquardt, who has spent time with both Cincinnati and Carolina this offseason. Receiver Reggie Brown (Achilles' tendon) did not practice. Tackle Tra Thomas left practice early with back spasms. Defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley was excused from practice for personal reasons.
Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press
Subject: Eagles Pro Bowl G Andrews reports; CB Samuel returns. 
