Les Bowen: 20 Questions to ponder as the Eagles begin training camp

There seems to be a first-round logjam relating to when bonuses will be paid, given the lack of a CBA beyond this season. Defensive end isn't quarterback in terms of complexity and synchronizing with others and such, but Graham is in a competitive situation with guys like Juqua Parker and Darryl Tapp, who are capable of making hay during his absence. Anything much beyond a week and you have to wonder how much Graham can contribute this year. As this was written, Nate Allen also wasn't signed. It's hard to think there will be an extensive delay with a second-rounder, and given Allen's status as your presumptive starting free safety, there'd better not be one. Indications yesterday were that a deal was close.

16. Parrish the thought?

Everybody knows that Sav Rocca's stats are better than his actual punts, which still lack consistency. Those long-bomb boomers envisioned when the Aussie signed have been scarce through two seasons. New special-teams czar Bobby April seems inclined to take a look at Ken Parrish, who might be able to free David Akers from kickoff duty, as well. Something to watch.

17. Is this going to be one of those years when we'll have to read stories about the precautions trainers take on superhot days?

Yeah, looks that way. Pass the sunscreen, keep hydrated.

18. Is Jeremy Maclin better off with Kolb taking snaps than with McNabb?

That's one theory being offered, that DeSean Jackson is more of a down-the-field threat, which was McNabb's strength, but that Maclin is more a "possession guy," and will prosper as Kolb offers a more traditional West Coast approach. I think Maclin and Kolb are close off the field, but Kolb's way too smart to disgruntle D-Jax. If Maclin does more this year, it'll be because he worked really hard all offseason, not so much because of the new QB.

19. Which position is in the most trouble?

Until Allen signs, it's free safety. In fact, until we see Allen in a few preseason games, it's free safety. After that, center. And maybe the corner opposite Samuel.

20. Where the heck is Butch?

Anthony "Butch" Buchanico, director of team security for 13 years, was best known by fans as that South Philly-looking guy with the mustache and the Brylcreemed hair who was standing beside Andy Reid in virtually every picture of the coach entering or leaving a field. Butch, who joined the Eagles after a long career with the Philadelphia Police Department, turned 65 this year and retired, replaced by David Young, an ex-state trooper. Butch probably won't be visiting training camp; he was not one to treasure the pastoral pleasures of the Lehigh Valley. Time will tell if Young proves as photogenic.