The Philadelphia Eagles are entering a new phase in their offensive strategy as they head into the 2024 season. A significant change is the replacement of offensive coordinator Brian Johnson with Kellen Moore. This shift in leadership coincides with the retirement of Jason Kelce, the team’s longtime center and a likely future Pro Football Hall of Famer. Kelce’s departure signals the end of an era where his contributions both on and off the field were pivotal in shaping the team’s offensive approach.
Jason Kelce was not only a key figure on the Eagles’ offensive line but also a leader who took on numerous responsibilities that allowed quarterback Jalen Hurts to focus more narrowly on his own role. Hurts has noted that Kelce’s expertise meant he could concentrate on his game without having to manage additional aspects of the offense. With Kelce retired, Hurts will need to step up and handle more responsibilities, as his previous learning was somewhat limited by Kelce’s presence.
The changes within the team, including the new offensive coordinator and the absence of Kelce, pose fresh challenges for Hurts as he adapts to the updated offensive scheme. In addition to learning Moore’s system, Hurts will likely have to manage more calls at the line of scrimmage. These adjustments come as the Eagles aim to recover from a disappointing finish to the 2023 season, characterized by a late-season slump.
Hurts had a tough end to the 2023 campaign, losing six out of his last seven starts after a strong beginning to the season. His performance dipped, averaging just 1.4 total touchdowns and 230.1 total yards per game over those final seven games. This downturn emphasizes the need for a smooth adaptation to the new offensive setup and leadership changes for the upcoming season.
Despite these hurdles, Hurts remains supported by a talented roster, including key players like A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and the newly acquired Saquon Barkley. The effectiveness of the Eagles’ offense will depend on Hurts’ ability to adjust to these changes and take on new responsibilities. The upcoming season will test his capacity to manage these transitions and lead the team effectively.
