The Philadelphia Eagles’ promising season took an unexpected turn as their once unbroken winning streak faced a sharp decline post-Week 12. The team experienced a depressing 1-6 stretch to end the season after initially feeling optimistic about winning the Super Bowl.
The weekend brought significant changes to the coaching staff, with defensive coordinator Sean Desai being shown the door, and a subtle indication that Matt Patricia might be following suit. Head coach Nick Sirianni is expected to weather the storm, but offensive coordinator Brian Johnson’s future appears uncertain.
Reports indicate Brian Johnson unlikely to return to Eagles
Brian Johnson’s future with the Eagles is shrouded in uncertainty as reports suggest an unlikely return for the 2024 season. According to Derrick Gunn of JAKIB Sports, signs are pointing towards the Eagles parting ways with Johnson soon. Gunn speculated that he may find a new role in another team’s offensive setup, via CBS Sports.
𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: #Eagles will likely fire offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, per @RealDGunn pic.twitter.com/EDmWZvA5Z7
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 22, 2024
The 2023 season presented a rollercoaster ride for Brian Johnson’s offensive strategies. While the Eagles’ O-line statistics resembled those of the previous year, their success was front-loaded. Despite overseeing the NFL’s eighth-ranked offensive unit, he struggled to maintain consistency.
The OC initially joined Philly as their quarterbacks coach in 2021. In his debut season, the team averaged the eighth-highest yards per game. As the QB coach, Johnson played a crucial role in developing Jalen Hurts and leading the Eagles to a remarkable 14-3 record along with a Super Bowl run in 2022. His success in developing QBs led to his promotion to offensive coordinator the following season.
Before his tenure with the Eagles, the veteran served as the offensive coordinator at Florida in 2020. His coaching journey also included roles at Houston, Mississippi State, and Utah. Three NFL teams have expressed interest in securing his services.
The Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons have reportedly shown interest in hiring him for their vacant head coaching positions. However, the Carolina Panthers, initially considering Johnson, decided to cancel their interview with him on Monday.
Potential replacement for Brian Johnson
Several intriguing candidates have emerged as front-runners for the OC spot of the Eagles. Among the potential candidates, Jim Bob Cooter stands out. As the play-caller for the Indianapolis Colts in 2023, he showcased a surprisingly solid offense and secured the 11th-best scoring offense in the NFL despite losing quarterback Anthony Richardson early in the season. His strategic prowess could inject new life into the Eagles’ offensive game plan.
Jim Bob Cooter could be in play to be the #Eagles next Offensive Coordinator, per @MikeGarafolo. pic.twitter.com/BXpPUqVEDx
— Eagles Nation (@PHLEaglesNation) January 20, 2024
Another intriguing option is Alex Tanney, who progressed from offensive quality control coach to assistant quarterbacks coach. His background as a former QB aligns with Johnson’s, potentially enabling him to tailor the offense to suit Jalen Hurts’ strengths.
Marcus Brady, the former offensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, presents a unique possibility as well. Despite being relieved of his offensive coordinator duties last season, his experience as a senior defensive assistant showcases his versatility.
The veteran’s return to the offensive side of the ball could bring a fresh perspective to the Eagles’ coaching staff.
Kavin Patullo, with an extensive coaching history dating back to 2007, can be another choice. His connection with head coach Nick Sirianni, stemming from their time together with the Colts, implies a strong working relationship.
Patullo’s familiarity with the Eagles QB and his ability to integrate his own innovations into the playbook make him a compelling candidate for Philly’s coaching vacancy.
Who do you think is the best OC for the Eagles?
