Troy Vincent is a former player who now serves as the NFL’s V.P. of Player Engagement. That title might suggest that he needs to take the diplomatic approach to discussing current NFL players, but Vincent used harsh terms in an interview about one of his former teams.
Vincent, who played for the Eagles from 1996 to 2003, told USA Today that he’s personally bothered by seeing this year’s Eagles failing to work hard and show a desire to win for coach Andy Reid.
“I’m offended,” Vincent said. ""I’m a former player, but I’m passionate about the Green. I want to see the franchise do well. I see it from afar. I see a lack of leadership when you see things happening on the sideline. It’s a want, a will, a desire. You have to hold each other accountable in the locker room.”
Vincent, who was speaking before the Eagles’ loss to the Panthers on Monday night, said that in the Eagles’ six straight losses before that game, he saw no evidence that the players were taking pride in their work.
“I was asked a question about someone’s hustle,” Vincent said. “Why are we talking about a professional not hustling? We need all 11 to the ball. Those are the things that leadership and personal accountability bring. Some of those things aren’t Andy’s responsibility. They’re about the 53 guys in that locker room. Don’t cheat the sport.”
Those are harsh words, but it would be hard for anyone who has watched the Eagles to deny that Vincent’s comments ring true.