Nick Sirianni has been criticized for treating the Eagles like a game of ‘Madden,’ while an insider claims that A.J. Brown is seen as a potential savior for Jalen Hurts.
As of mid-2023, the Philadelphia Eagles were viewed as potential league champions. However, ongoing offensive issues due to injuries and subpar performances, along with two crushing losses to start the 2024 season, have prompted a reassessment of their standing in the NFL. So, are injuries, ineffective offense, and coaching the sole reasons for the Eagles’ struggles? According to an NFL insider, it could also be their lost connection with A.J. Brown.
In a recent episode of *The Herd with Colin Cowherd* on October 3, NFL insider Jordan Schultz discussed the Eagles’ situation, highlighting A.J. Brown, Nick Sirianni, and Jalen Hurts. Schultz emphasized that the return of the currently injured Brown could be crucial for the team. He pointed out that the absence of both A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith is significantly impacting their performance. He elaborated, saying, “Jalen Hurts needs to be more decisive. What truly elevates the Eagles is the connection he shares with A.J. Brown, especially.”
Schultz noted the stark difference in Hurts’ performance with and without Brown. With Brown, Hurts boasts a passer rating of 94.4, racking up 7,837 yards, 47 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions in 33 games. In contrast, without Brown, his passer rating drops to 85.2, with 4,699 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions in 32 games—illustrating the clear impact Brown has on the offense.
Schultz compared Brown’s influence on the Eagles to Christian McCaffrey’s role with the 49ers. He also mentioned that the Eagles’ offense has become somewhat predictable, particularly in pre-snap motions, where they currently rank 18th. The biggest question, according to Schultz, is about head coach Nick Sirianni. He stated that while fans appreciate Sirianni when the team is performing well, they become frustrated during tough times, questioning his decision-making.
Schultz suggested that Sirianni should reconsider his aggressive approach, such as opting for fourth downs over field goals, which can add unnecessary pressure on Hurts and the inexperienced offensive line, especially with new center Cam Jurgens replacing veteran Jason Kelce. This criticism of Sirianni is echoed by other analysts as well, with some questioning his coaching abilities.
Now sitting at 2-2, the Eagles are searching for ways to improve after the Bye Week. The recent loss to the Buccaneers, 33-16, has heightened tensions among players and fans alike, with some calling for Sirianni’s ouster. Analyst Dan Orlovsky remarked that the team is poorly coached, citing their decision to pass the ball seven times out of the first nine plays without their top receivers, which quickly led to a 21-0 deficit.
