That pretty much rules out the 2003, 2005 and 2006 campaigns as McNabb sustained season-ending injuries in each of those years.

Coming back from a torn anterior cruciate ligament also is new ground for McNabb previously bounced back from a fractured fibula and a torn groin.

McNabb wasn’t asked about the acquisition of veteran quarterback Kelly Holcomb, obtained with linebacker Takeo Spikes in a trade with the Buffalo Bills for defensive tackle Darwin Walker and a seventh round draft pick in 2008.

But McNabb expects Spikes to make his presence felt defensively.

Additionally the signing of wide receiver Kevin Curtis gives McNabb a home run threat to help both him and the team offset the loss of Donte’ Stallworth, who took his elite speed to New England to team up with Tom Brady.

"With his speed and agility," McNabb said of Curtis, "it puts us in great position to send him deep and put him in some deep routes.

"It will also allow him to showcase his speed and his route running."

Curtis is expected to play on the outside as opposed to in the slot, where he was unable to supplant Pro Bowl receivers Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce in St. Louis.

New teammates aside, McNabb vowed to be back in the saddle when the Eagles open the 2007 season.

"I’ll be ready for opening day," McNabb said.

"Rehab is going well. I’m looking forward to going out on to the field again."