Sometimes, you need to consider the source. In this case, however, you need to consider both sources -- former Eagles wide receiver Terrell Owens and TMZ -- as well as motive.
T.O., whose contributions to the 2004 team that lost to the Patriots in the Super Bowl won't soon be forgotten, apparently still loves the camera and is back in local news for comments he made to TMZ Sports regarding the team's current quarterback situation.
Sam Bradford has become public enemy No. 1 in Philly after his agent requested the former Heisman winner and first-overall pick be traded following the Eagles decision to move up to No. 2 in the NFL Draft and take Carson Wentz.
Given Owens' history -- especially in this town -- you might think the former wideout, who was passed over by Hall of Fame voters in his first year on the ballot, has some sympathy for Bradford's situation. After all, he knows what it's like to be perceived by Eagles fans as a villain. He was also part of one of the most infamous contract disputes in my lifetime.
Well, you'd be wrong. Dead wrong.
Here's the money quote, as transcribed by the The 700 Level:
"I think it was not a great move for Sam to request a trade," Owens says. "For me that's kind of a sign of a coward to be honest. Again, if you're not secure in your abilities, it shouldn't matter who they're drafting. That should motivate you and prepare you for the best season you've ever had. I like competition. With that request [to be traded], it just seems like he's not really comfortable in his own skin and what he can do." [csnphilly.com]
I agree in that I don't think Bradford is handling this situation properly. But that doesn't mean he's not within his rights to ask for a trade. Where I think he erred is in demanding a trade and threatening to skip the Eagles' offseason program.
But to say it's cowardly? That's a bit much. Especially since it's coming from a guy who's own disagreement with the front office is as well remembered as his Super Bowl heroics. It's not apples-to-apples, as Owens' holdout was purely about money, but still.
Maybe if Bradford was doing a shirtless workout in his driveway while reporters hounded him, T.O. wouldn't consider him such a coward...
Follow Matt on Twitter: @matt_mullin