As the Philadelphia Eagles continue their search for a new offensive coordinator, several intriguing names have emerged-each bringing a distinct offensive identity and background to the table. With head coach Nick Sirianni looking to recalibrate his offense after a turbulent season, the decision on who takes over playcalling duties could shape the future of the franchise, especially with Jalen Hurts at the helm.
Let’s break down the top candidates reportedly under consideration and what each could bring to the Eagles’ offense.
Zac Robinson: The McVay Disciple
Zac Robinson’s name is gaining traction, and it’s easy to see why. A product of the Sean McVay coaching tree, Robinson spent five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams before taking over as offensive coordinator in Atlanta under Raheem Morris. His offensive philosophy is rooted in McVay’s system-think heavy presnap motion, misdirection, and a strong under-center presence.
That style could offer a fresh look for Philadelphia, especially if the team wants to lean into more deception and rhythm-based playcalling. Robinson hasn’t been calling plays for long-just two seasons-but his football IQ and system familiarity are widely respected.
The question for the Eagles is whether they want to adopt that identity wholesale. With Robinson, you’re not just hiring a playcaller-you’re likely reshaping the offensive philosophy around a McVay-style blueprint.
Brian Daboll: The Proven Playcaller
Few names on the market carry the weight that Brian Daboll does. His résumé speaks for itself-he’s called plays for multiple teams, coached nearly every offensive position group, and was instrumental in the development of Josh Allen during his time in Buffalo.
Daboll’s experience with mobile quarterbacks makes him a natural fit for Jalen Hurts. He’s known for pushing his quarterbacks hard, demanding precision and growth, and the results have been impressive. One coach who worked with him in Buffalo called it one of the best coaching jobs he’s ever seen.
The challenge here? Daboll is in high demand.
Multiple teams with head coaching vacancies are reportedly interested in him, making it tough for the Eagles to land him purely as a coordinator. But if they could somehow pull it off, it would be a massive win.
His ability to elevate an offense-particularly the passing game-could be exactly what Philadelphia needs.
Mike Kafka: The Andy Reid Protegé With a Twist
Mike Kafka’s roots trace back to Andy Reid’s West Coast offense, but he’s not just a system guy. During his time with the New York Giants, Kafka was given playcalling duties before Brian Daboll eventually reclaimed them. Still, those who’ve worked with Kafka describe him as an innovative thinker-someone who doesn’t just follow the Reid playbook, but adds his own flavor.
He’s reportedly big on trick plays and creative concepts, and he’s earned a reputation as a smart, outside-the-box play designer. For a team like the Eagles, who could use a jolt of unpredictability, Kafka’s approach might be the kind of spark that reinvigorates the offense.
Jim Bob Cooter: The Familiar Face
Jim Bob Cooter has been around the league, and he’s no stranger to Philadelphia. He was on the Eagles’ staff previously and has experience with Jalen Hurts. Most recently, he worked in Indianapolis, though he didn’t handle playcalling duties there.
Cooter rose to prominence in 2017 when he helped engineer a strong passing attack with Matthew Stafford in Detroit. While he’s bounced around since then, his reputation as a sharp offensive mind remains intact. This would feel like a move rooted in familiarity-Nick Sirianni bringing in someone he knows and trusts.
The concern? It’s a hire that might not move the needle in terms of offensive innovation. Cooter knows the system, he knows the quarterback, but does he bring enough fresh perspective to elevate the unit?
What’s Next?
The Eagles aren’t just looking for someone to call plays-they’re searching for the architect of their next offensive identity. Whether they go with a McVay-style tactician like Robinson, a proven leader like Daboll, a creative mind like Kafka, or a familiar face like Cooter, the decision will have ripple effects across the roster.
With Jalen Hurts locked in as the franchise quarterback and a talented supporting cast in place, the right coordinator could be the difference between another frustrating finish and a return to the top of the NFC. The Eagles are casting a wide net-and for good reason. This hire matters.