McGlynn getting the most out of camp
Mike McGlynn
The former Fitch High and University of Pittsburgh standout has played well in two preseason games with the Philadelphia Eagles.
During a day off following Philadelphia’s 24-13 win over the Carolina Panthers, Mike McGlynn was feeling pretty good about his performance.
“I’m doing good so far,” said the former Austintown Fitch High player who was drafted in the fourth round out of the University of Pittsburgh.
The 23-year-old McGlynn was also referring to his play a week earlier against the Steelers in both NFL teams’ first preseason game.
“Both exhibitions went well,” the 6-foot-4, 311-pound offensive lineman said.
McGlynn took part in more than 40 plays against the Steelers Aug. 8, then saw considerable action against Carolina Aug. 14 in a game which was delayed 58 minutes because of lightning in the first quarter.
McGlynn’s family was in attendance at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh when he played the second and third quarters at left guard and then played center in the fourth quarter.
“I played tackle in college, but I played center in high school, so it helped,” McGlynn said of drawing on past experience at the position.
McGlynn estimated that he snapped 20 times to quarterback A.J. Feeley and had another 20 to 25 repetitions while playing guard. Philadelphia lost, 16-10.
Against Carolina, McGlynn, who wears No. 68, again played left guard.
“It’s a lot of hard work and hours, but it’s worth it,” McGlynn said of being in camp on the campus of Lehigh University. “It’s a great opportunity and I’ll try to make the best of it.”
Learning the playbook wasn’t much of an impediment, he said.
“It wasn’t a difficult transition because it’s basically the same stuff we ran at Pitt. It’s different terminology, but the same schemes.”
In addition to McGlynn, other rookies working toward a spot on the offensive line are Mike Gibson and King Dunlap.
The absence of right guard Shawn Andrews gave the newcomers more time to prove themselves.
Andrews reported last week after missing most of camp because of depression.
To an extent, it enhanced McGlynn’s exposure.
“Yeah, it helped me get a lot of reps,” said McGlynn, “but Shawn’s a Pro Bowler, so when he comes back he’ll be ready to play.”
McGlynn, whose uncle, Doug, is Fitch’s principal, said he’s also part of the kickoff return and field goal teams.
“Whatever it takes to make the team. If I have more to offer, it increases my chance of staying.”
The No. 1 left guard is Todd Herremans, while Jamaal Jackson and Nick Cole are the top two centers.
Against the Panthers, Herremans moved to tackle to take William Thomas’ spot and Scott Young filled in for Herremans.
McGlynn said camp hasn’t taught him any new football knowledge, but it has reinforced a tenet of any sport.
“I’m just learning that fundamentals are so key. You’ve got to realize that one little thing could get you beat, so make sure your fundamentals are up to par every time.”
Entering the final two preseason games, McGlynn likes his chances of earning a spot on the team.
“It’s definitely feasible,” he said. “I feel good about my progress so far. Well see how it goes the next couple weeks.”
bassetti@vindy.com