Jon Runyan was a judge at a recent Harley Davidson customizing event at Barb’s Harley Davidson in W. Collingsworth, NJ

WEST COLLINGSWOOD: Even on crutches, Jon Runyan stands out in a crowd.

Moving around on those crutches, Runyan made his first public appearance since undergoing micro fracture surgery shortly after the season on his right knee.

The repairs will reportedly take four to six months of recovery time.

He was not allowed to put any weight on his legs until just before the early March appearance.

Runyan was on hand for an event hosted by Barb’s Harley-Davidson in West Collingswood, NJ.

Even hunched over, when you go 6-foot-7 and tip the scales at 330 pounds, it is not hard to find the guy who, over nine years, never missed a game guarding Donovan McNabb’s right side.

At 35, it is obviously going to be tough for the Pro Bowler to get back, prove his knee is sound again and get in shape for the rigors of playing offensive tackle in the NFL.

But Runyan is cautiously optimistic. 

“I’m plugging away, just to the point in the last couple of weeks where they (doctors) are letting me walk around a little bit and put weight on it,” said Runyan, who holds a remarkable streak for an offensive lineman, having started 190 consecutive regular season games, the second longest streak among active NFL players. “It is a little progression; I think it will be another month before I can get really into agilities and that type of thing…you have to work your way on up.”

Runyan, a motorcycle enthusiast and spokesman for Barb’s, was at the popular dealership to judge customized motorcycles as well as sign autographs and pose for pictures with fans and fellow motorbike aficionados.

Runyan said riding motorcycles is second nature to him.

“I’ve always been around them,” Runyan said. “My dad rode his whole life and still rides today. It’s just one of those things…I learned how to drive motorcycles before I learned before I learned how to drive a car. That’s how I was raised.”

Runyan, clearly in his element hanging out with fellow riders, said going to these events is fun but can be a double edged sword of sorts.

“It’s nice to be able to come out and do things like this and be involved,” he said. “The problem is, about every other year you’re buying another motorcycle and I can only ride one at a time.”

Runyan says he owns four bikes but has a favorite.

“I ride my Road King the most. It’s convenient…nice…looks cool…combination of looks…combination of everything.”

Runyan said even though knee surgery does not stop him from riding his motorcycle, there are some logistical challenges to riding.

“I can ride; I just can’t walk anywhere when I get off of it!” Runyan said with a laugh.

Runyan said he would prefer to stay an Eagle, but understands that the NFL is all business. Coach Andy Reid has been quoted recently that he is monitoring Runyan’s progress and would be interested in signing the veteran if he is healthy.

So it would seem the the feeling is mutual.

“It would be (great) if it works out that way,” Runyan said. “But I am not closing any doors. I am open to anything at this point.

“I want to play as long as my body lets me really,” he continued. “You don’t want to beat yourself into the ground. I haven’t got to that point yet.”

Runyan said if he can’t play anymore he is ready to move on, most likely he will continue to pursue a career in the media.

He has been a regular on radio and TV over the last few years and by most accounts, is doing a solid job.

“I’ve been planning for the next phase of my life for five, six years now,” Runyan said. “I’m more than prepared to do it. It’s the opportunity you have to make the type of money you do make playing football doesn’t come everyday. So while you are able to do it, you have to take advantage of it.”

Al Thompson can reached at al.thompson@footballstories.com.