The Facts: Though the Eagles never officially became a player in the Manning derby, it wasn't for a lack of trying. HC Andy Reid reportedly wanted to make a run at the four-time NFL MVP (now the starting quarterback of the Broncos), according to Los Angeles Times reporter Sam Farmer. The Eagles never become serious contenders to land Manning, sources told Farmer, because he did not want to play against his brother, Eli, at least twice a season.

Diehards Line:In a statement released by the team Friday, Reid denied the newspaper's report. "We look into everything, as all teams do," Reid said. "I have the highest regard for Peyton Manning. But as I said publicly last month, that wasn't the direction we were heading in. Michael [Vick] is our guy." Farmer also reported, citing two NFL insiders, that Reid was prepared to walk away from the team if he was not allowed more control over personnel decisions. Reid emphatically affirmed his role as the final decision maker in the Eagles front office. "As far as the personnel control, I have had final say on personnel matters for quite some time here and that's never been an issue or a point of contention," Reid said. "Our front office works very well together and that's one of our strengths."