We now know why Shawn Andrews has not reported to Eagles training camp.

We also know that he likely will arrive at Lehigh University this Friday.

What we don’t know is when we will see the All-Pro offensive guard on the field, in pads, anchoring the right side of the Eagles offensive line beside tackle Jon Runyan.

Andrews Monday indicated he is battling depression.

For two weeks, Andrews was the focus of the rumor mill as to what exactly was keeping him away from Lehigh, while the team simply slapped the “personal issue” explanation on his absence. They also slapped a $15,000 daily fine on their star guard for each day he was AWOL.

All sorts of stories circulated as to why Andrews was not in camp, from the standard “he simply does not like training camp,” to some more serious questions.

Yesterday Andrews decided to go public with his personal issues. He did it on the same day Eagles’ owner Jeff Lurie gave his annual State of the Team Address.

Lurie assured Eagles Nation – many of whom make the trek up the Northeast Extension each day to watch the Birds practice – that the team is not in a rebuilding mode. The Eagles are not “retooling,” according to the man who signs the checks. This is “going for it,” Lurie stressed.

They likely aren’t going anywhere unless they can settle several issues, including getting Andrews back on the field, and resolving the sticky contract issue that clearly has gotten under the skin of star running back Brian Westbrook.

Andrews’ issue transcends the sports pages. We wish him well in his recovery. He is apparently now getting professional help and is on medication.

That gives him something in common with a lot of people. Most of them, however, do not battle their demons on the front page of the sports sections.

Having said that, we’re also a fan. We hope Andrews returns to the lineup soon. This time needs him.

We hope the Westbrook issue is resolved as well.

And we hope someday, Jeff Lurie’s team fulfills that “gold standard” label he has slapped on the organization.