Depending on what happens with the collective-bargaining negotiations between the NFL and its players, Sheppard could be a free agent in March. The contract he signed with the Eagles in 2004 is set to expire, and while he would like to return to the Jets, he said, he is confident he will be playing, and starting, somewhere next year.
He also had an idea for the Eagles - or perhaps their fans.
"I'd tell them to trade [McNabb]," Sheppard said. "I think he'll be happier, so then he won't have to be with that cloud over his head about what people feel about him. I mean, a player plays better when he feels appreciated. Until they appreciate him, they won't get what they want out of him.