Eagles Linked to Bold Backup Plan Amid Coordinator Search

As the Eagles continue their search for an offensive coordinator, Adam Schefter's insight into Nick Sirianni's potential return to play-calling adds a surprising twist to the team's offseason narrative.

As January winds down, the Philadelphia Eagles still haven’t named an offensive coordinator-and that silence is starting to speak volumes.

According to Adam Schefter on NFL Live, head coach Nick Sirianni and the Eagles front office aren’t rushing the process. They've been casting a wide net, interviewing a range of candidates-including Jim Bob Cooter, currently with the Colts, and Sean Mannion, the Packers’ quarterbacks coach.

While those names might not generate fireworks in Philly, they’re both respected in coaching circles. Mannion, in particular, is viewed as a rising mind in the league.

But here’s where things get interesting: if the Eagles don’t land a candidate they believe is truly “worthy of the job,” there’s a contingency plan already on the table-Sirianni himself could take over play-calling duties.

That’s a bold move, and one that carries plenty of weight.

Let’s rewind for a moment. Sirianni has called plays before.

In fact, he opened his Eagles tenure with the headset on. But midway through the 2022 season, he handed off play-calling responsibilities to then-offensive coordinator Shane Steichen.

The result? A more streamlined offense, a red-hot Jalen Hurts, and a trip to the Super Bowl.

That decision was lauded as a selfless, team-first pivot-and it paid off big.

So naturally, the idea of Sirianni retaking the reins in 2026 raises a few eyebrows.

If he was able to recognize the benefit of stepping back in 2022, what’s changed now? Especially considering how the offense sputtered down the stretch in both 2023 and 2025, ultimately falling short in the Divisional Round each time.

Those late-season collapses weren’t just about injuries or execution-they were about rhythm, identity, and play design. And that’s exactly what the offensive coordinator is supposed to bring to the table.

Now, to be fair, the Eagles aren’t just settling. They’re doing their homework.

Schefter made it clear that the team is being “diligent” in its search, prioritizing fit over flash. And that makes sense-this isn’t just about Xs and Os.

It’s about aligning with the culture, the quarterback, and the long-term vision of the franchise.

But let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: this is a pivotal hire. Philadelphia still has a championship-caliber roster.

Jalen Hurts remains one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. The offensive line is elite.

The skill positions are loaded. What they need now is someone who can tie it all together-someone who can bring clarity and creativity to an offense that looked disjointed far too often last season.

If that ends up being Sirianni, it’ll be a return to a role he once willingly gave up. And while that may work in the short term, it also raises questions about the long-term direction of the staff.

The Eagles have options. They’ve spoken with candidates who have experience and upside.

But as of now, no hire has been made. And with each passing day, the pressure to get this right only grows.

Because in Philadelphia, expectations don’t wait.