NFL
Season Outlook
Their fifth straight postseason appearance was tempered by five losses in the last eight games. Philadelphia’s unsuccessful title defense ended in a home Wild Card loss to San Francisco. The Eagles offense was a year-long point of contention, a matter voiced A.J. Brown among others. Things should look different now with a new play caller and a new No. 1 wide receiver, but much of the core from the Super Bowl team has returned.
What's Changed
It took no time for the organization to move on from offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo – replaced by Sean Mannion. Meanwhile, longtime offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland stepped away. The Eagles filled the void at wideout by taking USC’s Makai Lemon with the 20th overall pick. Defensively, Philly must deal with the losses of Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, Nakobe Dean, Darius Slay, Isaiah Rodgers and Reed Blankenship.
Bigger Role & Sophomore Breakout
Brown’s departure opens the door for DeVonta Smith to be the featured pass catcher. He eclipsed 1,000 yards for the third time and scored four TDs. Concerns surround his ability to handle an increased workload with a 6-foot, 170-pound frame, despite getting 136 targets in 2022. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is keying on last year’s first-round pick, linebacker Jihaad Campbell, to be a capable successor to Dean. He’ll quickly get the chance to show if he has the range to handle a starting role.
Key Question
Can Saquon Barkley rediscover his form? He went from 5.8 yards per carry in his historic 2024 to just 4.1 last season. Even by his standards, it would be crazy to think he could recreate a 2,000-yard pace, but the vintage runs have been missing lately. He certainly has the blocking to do it, as Philly boasts an elite offensive line.
Prediction
The Eagles go 11-6 to edge the Cowboys for the NFC East crown. However, it’s another first-round exit. The offense modestly improves as Hurts looks better in drop-back situations. But no Brown and a hampered Makai Lemon continues to leave the passing game a frustration. Barkley adds another 1,000-yard rushing season. The volatility of the personnel changes on defense is apparent and it has an effect on the Eagles’ ability to limit the pass.
X-Factor
Imagine a quarterback who’s taken his team to two recent Super Bowls, was terrific in both, and is uncertain as the team’s starter. That’s where Jalen Hurts is. He also finds himself with another new offensive coordinator and there may be some adjustment period in Sean Mannion's system. No matter what, there will be a ton of focus on how he and the offense fares.
Final Scorecard
- Offense: 7
- Defense: 7
- Coaching: 6
- X-Factor Upside: 8
- Schedule Strength: 6