Back to the “I Could Learn From…” series. NFL camps are just around this corner and I’m a bit glum that Donovan McNabb will be absent at the Eagles camp after 10 years of being with the team. McNabb’s rise happened about the time my oldest son became aware of football.  My son is now driving and is a handful of years away from launching into adulthood. So McNabb’s Easter day trade marks time in my household as well as with the Philadelphia Eagles. Here are three things I could learn from McNabb:

1) Tuning out the Critics: McNabb is the NFL’s version of Job. He’s one of the good guys in the sport. He’s a family man, displays high character, and has virtually set every record in the Eagles’ book. Even so, he’s endured racially charged venom from Rush Limbaugh, the wrath of professional narcissist, Terrel Owens, and grumblings of an ungrateful Philly fan base. The only thing he is guilty of is not winning a ring, as if he’s capable of accomplishing that by himself.

In the face of all this, McNabb keeps his focus on the game. For the most part he’s refused to get drawn into responding to all these critics. He’s too busy bettering himself to play their game.

2) Keeping the Team Loose: I’m going to miss Donovan’s clowning around on the sidelines. No matter how big the game was, “5″ always had the ability to smile, joke, and keep his team mates from becoming overwhelmed with the pressure.

3) The Art of Redefining Yourself: When Donovan came into the game, he was green like any other rookie QB. Donovan had, at best, a pedestrian receiving core. So Donovan created plays with his legs. Over time, Donovan aged and suffered injuries. So he evolved his game and became a top-flight pocket passer. I could learn from his example. Rapidly changing times demand rapidly evolving leaders.

McNabb, thanks for the memories. I wish you the best. And hey, you really didn’t owe Philadelphia that apology. But it was a classy thing to do.