The Philadelphia Eagles aren’t exactly known for standing still - and that’s part of what’s kept them in the NFL’s upper echelon. Even after hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in 2024, they’ve shown a willingness to evolve, adapt, and reload rather than rest on their success. That mindset may soon lead them to poach a key piece from the Indianapolis Colts’ coaching staff - and it could be a move with real implications for both teams.
According to reports, the Eagles brought in Colts offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter for a second interview this week - this time, an in-person sit-down - as they continue their search for a new offensive coordinator. On the surface, it might look like a lateral move.
Cooter already holds the OC title in Indianapolis. But context matters, and in this case, the context changes everything.
In Indy, head coach Shane Steichen is the one calling the plays. That leaves Cooter in more of a support role - coordinating the offense during the week, helping shape the game plan, and relaying Steichen’s vision to the players.
But when Sunday rolls around, the offense is Steichen’s show. In Philadelphia, that wouldn’t be the case.
If hired, Cooter would be stepping into the driver’s seat as the primary play-caller - a clear bump in responsibility and influence.
And that’s where things get interesting for the Eagles.
Cooter may not be calling plays right now, but he’s no stranger to the role. He served as offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions from 2016 to 2018, guiding the offense with Matthew Stafford at quarterback. He’s shown he can handle the pressure that comes with play-calling duties, and he’s done it in a major market.
There’s also a familiarity factor at play here. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni worked alongside Cooter back in 2021, when both were on the Philadelphia staff under Steichen.
That connection matters. Sirianni knows what Cooter brings to the table - his football IQ, his adaptability, and his ability to mesh with a staff.
And Steichen clearly trusted him enough to bring him to Indianapolis when he took over the Colts.
If the Eagles do bring Cooter back into the fold, there’s reason to believe he could hit the ground running. He’s shown he can mold his schemes to fit the talent around him - a crucial trait in today’s NFL, where offenses are increasingly built around the unique skill sets of their quarterbacks. Jalen Hurts isn’t Matthew Stafford, and he certainly doesn’t play like Daniel Jones, but Cooter’s track record suggests he can tailor an offense to get the most out of his signal-caller.
And let’s not forget - Cooter already knows what it’s like to work in Philadelphia. He’s familiar with the intensity of the fan base and the pressure that comes with coaching in one of the league’s most passionate markets. That kind of experience can’t be overstated.
Whether or not Cooter ends up making the jump to Philadelphia, his name being in the mix isn’t a surprise. He’s earned respect around the league, and he’s built strong relationships with some of the brightest offensive minds in the game. If the Eagles are looking for a play-caller who understands their culture, knows how to develop quarterbacks, and can bring fresh ideas to the table, Cooter checks a lot of boxes.
For now, he’s still in Indianapolis. But if the Eagles decide to hand him the keys to their offense, don’t be shocked if he makes the most of the opportunity.