The 2025 season was a tough pill for the Philadelphia Eagles to swallow. Coming off a Super Bowl win, expectations were sky-high, but they fell short, leading to the departure of Kevin Patullo as offensive coordinator. The offensive struggles were evident, especially among the receiving corps.
AJ Brown's visible frustration was a talking point, but DeVonta Smith was quietly discontent as well. Reports from ESPN insiders Tim McManus and Jeremy Fowler highlighted that while Smith might not have been vocal, his frustrations simmered beneath the surface.
A source close to the team shed light on the core issue: the absence of "layup plays" in the offense. The source noted, "Every catch, every play is grind-it-out; the receivers have to win."
In response, the Eagles are shaking things up by bringing in Sean Mannion as the new offensive coordinator. Mannion's approach is inspired by the innovative styles of Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan, focusing on motion and under-center play-action-elements that Jalen Hurts and the Eagles haven't fully embraced under Nick Sirianni. Adapting to this new system will be crucial for maintaining their status in the NFC.
Jalen Hurts, however, isn't off the hook. Questions about his coachability have surfaced, along with observations of poor body language when plays falter. Consistency has been elusive for Hurts, compounded by the revolving door of offensive systems-Sean Mannion marks his sixth play-caller since entering the league, a staggering turnover rate.
Looking ahead, the Eagles have an opportunity to regroup and come back stronger next season. Success hinges on unity and collaboration, from DeVonta Smith to Jalen Hurts, ensuring everyone is aligned from the get-go.