That wasn't the case in last Friday's preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. Starting left tackle Tra Thomas wasn't able to play because of back spasms, and Pro Bowl right guard Shawn Andrews also didn't play after missing the first three weeks of training camp dealing with depression.

With Thomas out, Todd Herremans, the team's starting left guard, moved outside and was replaced inside by Scott Young. Third-year man Max Jean-Gilles replaced Andrews at right guard.

The Eagles aren't too concerned about Thomas' back spasms. He's had them before and has usually returned to the lineup fairly quickly. Andrews returned to practice right after the Carolina game and should be ready for the start of the season.

Eagles coach Andy Reid would like to have both Thomas and Andrews in the lineup Friday for the team's third preseason game against the New England Patriots. Since Reid usually rests most of his starters in the final regular-season game, this likely will be the one and only preseason opportunity for the five offensive line starters to take live reps together.

"You'd like that to happen," Reid said. "But if it doesn't, we'll still be OK since they've played together in years past. But if I had my choice, I'd much rather have them do that (play together against the Patriots)."

There was concern by some that Andrews, who has battled weight problems in the past, would be overweight and out of shape when he came back. But that wasn't the case. Andrews, who played last season at 330 pounds, weighs 331.

"You could tell that he's been working and looks strong," Reid said.

Reid also is hopeful that Andrews has his depression under control.

"He's got a good support staff right now, and I think he's in a good place," the Eagles coach said. "We'll see how it works out. Right now, he is very upbeat and positive. He feels better, looks better. In just the couple of days that he's been here, we've seen a little bit of sense of relief when you're talking to him."

Andrews said he feels in great shape despite missing three weeks of camp.

"I've been using my emotions and aggressions in my workouts," he said. "I'm feeling pretty strong. That 331 (that he weighs) is lighter than what I would be playing."