Report: Nick Foles in the Lead in Philadelphia QB Battle

When Michael Vick restructured his deal to remain in Philadelphia, it was assumed that Vick would have the inside track at the job with Chip Kelly, as the most mobile quarterback on the roster. However, Jimmy Kempski of Eagles Insider says that it has been second year quarterback Nick Foles who has been most impressive through the OTA’s and minicamp. Kempski says “this competition is very real, and Foles is in the lead.”

This comes less than a day after reports that Kelly won’t name a starter before camp opens, and that the two have been splitting reps with the first team, with Barkley at third string.

Kempski says that Foles has looked much better on deep throws this year, and has looked far more confident. Kempski says Barkley has an uphill battle to pass Foles, as the two are similar stylistically. Michael Vick, meanwhile, has been plagued by holding the ball too long in the past and taking too many sacks in his career. Keep that in mind based on the statements of quarterbacks coach Bill Lazor about what they are looking for (from USA Today/Martin Frank):

" “Accuracy and decision-making are the first two,” quarterbacks coach Bill Lazor said. “You have to play at the speed of the game. Accuracy and making the right decision at the right time. Those are two qualities that a guy has to have, and then athletic ability.” "

[photo via USA Today Sports Images]