"He's a guy who will never, ever be replaced in Philadelphia. He will always be a part of this community. Brian Dawkins is one of those guys who when you see him in a Denver uniform, you will still think he's an Eagle."
It's been a half-week since Dawkins' 13-year career with the Eagles ended and he signed a free-agent contract with the Denver Broncos.
For the most part, Eagles management has taken a beating from fans enraged that it could not, or would not, find a way to create a financial package that would keep one of this city's most respected athletes in midnight green.
Springs, a 12-year veteran who turns 34 next week, had the misfortune of being the first free agent to come to the NovaCare Complex since the Dawkins signing went from sad rumor to sorry fact.
Considering he is a cornerback who has had some experience playing at safety in certain defensive packages, Springs knew he would not be able to avoid the inevitable questions about himself in relation to Dawkins.
"We're a totally different style of players," Springs said of those thinking he is being viewed as a replacement for Dawkins. "I wouldn't even be worried about those comparisons because we are totally different.
"[Dawkins] is a true strong safety and one of the best that ever played. I came into this league as a true cover corner - one who can play safety because of my size and different things.
"I can blitz. I actually led my team in sacks 1 year. But Brian Dawkins is a true safety. You all know what he's done here. It would be like comparing apples and oranges."
Again, Springs had the misfortune of being the first, but this is likely to be the routine for every veteran who comes in to talk to the Eagles during the free-agency period.
Obviously, there will be questions about playing ability, but right after that will come those about off-field personality and locker-room presence.
