After suffering his second concussion in the span of three weeks, RB Brian Westbrook has visited with two specialists in the Pittsburgh area to determine his next course of action. The Eagles ruled Westbrook out for their Week 11 game against the Bears but have yet to decide on anything past that.

Head coach Andy Reid said he is closely monitoring the situation and talking with Westbrook throughout the process. At first there was speculation that Westbrook's career might be over, certainly his season.

But now there is talk that Westbrook, who reportedly felt much better the day after his second concussion than he did after his first, could see the field again this season. It certainly is a tricky decision for the Eagles, and they have to assume that Westbrook is being earnest when he tells them and the doctors how he feels.

"I talked to him on Monday and he was in a good place," Reid said. "I think he's grateful to have the care that he's had. I mean, guys looking over him as much as [head trainer] Rick [Burkholder] and our doctors have been doing, making sure that we're doing everything that we possibly can to take care of him."

QB Donovan McNabb, for one, believes Westbrook will be back this season. The Eagles have struggled at times to run the ball, with or without Westbrook, but that might have as much to do with a turnstile offensive line that has been beset by injuries most of the season.

The Eagles actually have trusted rookie LeSean McCoy a good deal, even though he has disappeared from some offensive game plans, such as in the loss to the Chargers. He has shown good progress and likely is the back of the future, but there also are areas that need polishing in his game. He is not as dependable as a healthy Westbrook in his prime and hasn't yet shown the all-around versatility or toughness that Westbrook possesses.

Still, the team believes McCoy has a great chance to be an excellent player. And he clearly will play a large role in the team's finish, whether or not Westbrook is back.

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