Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, July 25, 1995 TAG: 9507250095
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Hebron, who rushed for 297 yards on 84 carries and two touchdowns in 1993 and 325 yards on 82 carries and two touchdowns last season, collided with defensive lineman Rhett Hall during Sunday's morning practice.
The team said Hebron will undergo surgery early today at Pennsylvania Hospital.
Hebron ranks sixth on Virginia Tech's all-time rushing list, compiling 2,327 yards from 1989-92. He was expected to have more of an expanded role with the Eagles this season because of his versatility.
Hebron's loss leaves the Eagles thin at halfback.
Ricky Watters, a free-agent addition the Eagles signed from the San Francisco 49ers, is the projected starter. His backup now will be Charlie Garner, who started camp under a cloud of controversy following a published report that said he had tested positive for marijuana use. Garner denied the report, which appeared in the Philadelphia Daily News.
The league has made no announcement regarding Garner's status, but it suspended Bernard Williams for the first six games of the season for testing positive for marijuana.
Neither the 22-year-old offensive tackle, Philadelphia's first pick in the 1994 draft, nor new Eagles coach Ray Rhodes would comment on the matter Monday. Williams spoke about the situation last Thursday, saying he regretted making a mistake and apologizing to the team and the fans.
``Obviously we're displeased that we'll be without Bernard's services for six games, at this time,'' said Bob Ackles, director of football administration for the team. ``But at this time, our prime concern is for the health and well-being of Bernard Williams. Bernard has said publicly that he made a mistake and he has expressed his regrets.''
Keywords:
FOOTBALL
by CNB