Multiple Individuals Under Scrutiny Following Eagles’ Disappointing Playoff Elimination

By the conclusion of November, it seemed that the Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) were poised to secure the top seed in the NFC and potentially make a return trip to the Super Bowl for the second consecutive year.

However, a late-season downturn, marked by defeats in five out of the last six games and a decisive 32-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the wild-card round, necessitated changes as the offseason commenced.

While head coach Nick Sirianni retained his position, significant alterations were made to the coaching staff. The Eagles have introduced nine new coaches, notably offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.

Should Philadelphia experience another premature playoff departure in 2024, Sirianni might find himself seeking employment elsewhere by this time next year. The Eagles may adopt an assertive approach in acquiring impactful players on offense and defense through free agency and the draft to prolong their Super Bowl aspirations. Nevertheless, it’s evident that the upcoming season carries significant weight for numerous individuals within the organization.

FREE AGENTS | Offense: Quarterback Marcus Mariota; Running backs D’Andre Swift, Boston Scott, Rashaad Penny; Wide receivers Olamide Zaccheaus, Quez Watkins; Tight end Jack Stoll; Offensive guards Iosua Opeta, Jack Driscoll; Center Jason Kelce

Defense: Defensive end Brandon Graham; Defensive tackle Fletcher Cox; Linebackers Zach Cunningham, Shaq Leonard, Shaun Bradley, Nicholas Morrow; Safety Justin Evans

Special teams: Punter Braden Mann

Analysis: The majority of Philadelphia’s impending free agents are situated on the defensive side of the ball. Graham and Cox played pivotal roles in the team’s front seven, amassing a total of 79 pressures, 51 hurries, 15 quarterback hits, and six sacks combined. Retaining Cox is anticipated, but Graham, given his age at 35, could be released. Morrow and Cunningham ranked second and third in tackles for the Eagles, respectively. With Morrow being younger at 28, he’s likely to be retained while Cunningham enters the market, creating opportunities for Nolan Smith and Nakobe Dean to receive more playing time.