WR DeSean Jackson Says Steve Smith is Maclin Insurance

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson apparently didn't get the memo about how the Eagles' signing of wideout Steve Smith was unrelated to Jeremy Maclin's illness.

"The reason why they picked him up is they're unsure of Maclin's health," Jackson said following his first practice since ending his 11-day training camp holdout. Jackson had been asked what he made of the signing of Smith, which perhaps implied the possibility that the Eagles are seeking leverage in their contract talks with Jackson. Jackson called Smith a friend and said be was hoping for Maclin's quick return.

Smith, recovering from left knee microfracture surgery, was officially played on the physicially unable to perform list. The Eagles hold out hope that he will be able to start the season on the active roster; if he starts on PUP, he can't play for a full six weeks. Smith is very unlikely to be ready for the opener, but the team thinks he might not need to miss six weeks.

Right now Smith and Maclin both bring a lot of risks to the table. Outside of Jackson, the safest Philadelphia receiver during the early part of the season might be Jason Avant.