'Stubborn' Staley returns without contract extension

PHILADELPHIA--Running back Duce Staley returned Sunday to thePhiladelphia Eagles, choosing to end his 26-day holdout without thecontract extension he was seeking.

"I'm not afraid to say that I was stubborn," Staley said on hisfirst day of practice. "It's behind us. It's over. It's squashed.It's time to move on and bring something new to the city--hopefully,that's a ring--and stay positive."

Staley, who is in the final year of a contract that will pay him$2.2 million this season, held out in an effort to pressure theEagles to give him an extension. But the Eagles have two youngrunning backs in Correll Buckhalter and Brian Westbrook and made itobvious they weren't prepared to make a long-term commitment toStaley.

Staley and his agent, Derrick Harrison, met with coach Andy Reidat least twice last week and again when Staley arrived Saturday inPhiladelphia.

"It started with communication," Staley said. "I had a chance tosit down and talk, and he let me know where I stood and where Istand. That's all I ever wanted. I want to be here, there's no doubtabout it. I'm looking forward to getting an opportunity to get acontract extension."

Neither Staley nor Reid revealed what was discussed during theirmeetings.

"We feel good going forward, both sides," Reid said. "It'simportant Duce has the time to get himself back into football shape.We're going to ease him into playing shape, and good things willhappen."

Staley had 1,029 yards rushing and 541 yards receiving and scoredeight touchdowns last season. He stayed away from the Eagles'voluntary minicamp in June along with cornerback Bobby Taylor, whoalso is seeking a contract extension. Taylor, however, reported totraining camp on time.

"I think guys have respect for each player's individualcircumstances," Taylor said. "I'm happy he's here now. Hopefully, hecan get all the questions answered and move on and play football."

While Staley held out, the Eagles gave receiver Todd Pinkston asix-year extension.

Earlier this month, Staley released a statement criticizing Eaglesmanagement for not "seriously" discussing his future with the team.

"I really wanted to come back in and get back with my teammates,"Staley said after practicing with the second-team offense. "I reallywanted to come back and be with the fans and let them know I stillwant to play. I still want to be here."

AP