The Philadelphia Eagles, once the NFC favorites, ended the 2023 season with a disappointing playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite starting strong with a 10-1 record, they stumbled in December, losing five of six games. The issues that led to their late-season decline were exploited by the Buccaneers in the Super Wild Card Weekend.
Although the Eagles boast talent on both sides of the ball, some significant off-season changes may be necessary to return to Super Bowl contention in 2025. One consideration is evaluating head coach Nick Sirianni’s future. While he has led the team to the playoffs in all three of his seasons, owner Jeffrey Lurie’s satisfaction is crucial. Notable coaching candidates like Bill Belichick, Pete Carroll, Mike Vrabel, Jim Harbaugh, and up-and-coming coordinators Ben Johnson and Bobby Slowik should be considered.
The defensive struggles, particularly in the latter part of the season, suggest a need for a new defensive coordinator. Matt Patricia’s mid-season takeover did not address the team’s major issues, making it imperative to find a qualified replacement. Potential candidates include Jerry Gray, Al Holcomb, and Anthony Weaver.
Offensively, the Eagles have faced challenges, especially in the absence of key players. The disconnect between quarterback Jalen Hurts, offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, and head coach Sirianni needs resolution. Considering the offensive struggles, the Eagles should explore options like Greg Roman, Frank Reich, Jim Caldwell, or Klint Kubiak for the coordinator role.
Investing in a quality third wide receiver is crucial to diversifying the offense. The Eagles have largely ignored this position, impacting the predictability of their passing attack. With limited cap space, focusing on the deep 2024 draft class for a reliable receiver is a viable strategy.
Defensive losses during the 2023 offseason impacted the team’s performance, requiring a reload in the back seven. Release decisions for underperforming players like Kevin Byard and consideration for alternatives like Patrick Queen, Jaylon Johnson, and Geno Stone in free agency are necessary. The 2024 draft should prioritize linebacker, cornerback, and safety positions.
In summary, addressing coaching concerns, finding a new defensive coordinator, replacing underperforming offensive staff, investing in a third wide receiver, and reloading the defensive back seven are key areas for the Eagles to reclaim Super Bowl competitiveness in 2025.
