Pederson wants Wentz to be more 'vulnerable' with teammates

Doug Pederson called Carson Wentz a natural-born leader Tuesday, but suggested the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback is still growing into the role with his teammates.

"First of all, I think everybody can be a better teammate," Pederson told ESPN's Tim McManus. "I can be a better coach. I think being a better teammate would just be sometimes being a little more vulnerable, being a little more accessible. You're obviously committed to your craft, to developing your skill, but it's like you want to walk across the aisle and talk to the other side. And that's all part of the maturation process and the growth process, and it's something you learn through time."

Wentz was the subject of a critical story at the end of the Eagles' season that painted him as "selfish," "uncompromising," and "egotistical." The article acknowledged his high intelligence and strong work ethic, but questioned his leadership abilities.

"I watched it with some of the greatest quarterbacks I've ever played with," Pederson added. "I saw it from Dan Marino, I saw it from Brett Favre. For them to become better teammates, they approached the entire team and take on that personality, and then people follow. Carson's got that in him, he's got it in his DNA, and that's what we're excited about."

Wentz has seen his last two seasons derailed by injuries, and in both years watched from the sidelines as the Eagles rallied around backup Nick Foles.

Eagles general manager Howie Roseman revealed Monday the team will look to discuss a contract extension with Wentz this offseason.

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