The Philadelphia Eagles came frustratingly close to opening their season 2-0, which, while not flawless, would have been a welcome result for the team.
Despite this, fans and analysts alike are voicing concerns about key issues within the organization, with head coach Nick Sirianni’s decision-making taking center stage.
Among those weighing in is former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsky, who recently shared his apprehensions about the Eagles during an appearance on ESPN’s Get Up.
Orlovsky’s critique highlighted two major concerns: the Eagles’ inability to stop the run and the lingering doubts surrounding Sirianni’s game management.
“The Eagles have really two issues: One, they can’t stop the run at all. … Two, I don’t trust Nick Sirianni to manage the game. I don’t trust him in big situations.”
Orlovsky’s first point is grounded in the team’s glaring defensive shortcomings, particularly when it comes to stopping the run.
So far this season, the Eagles have allowed a staggering 157.5 rushing yards per game, a statistic that’s difficult to overlook. This weakness has left them vulnerable, and opposing teams have capitalized on it, raising doubts about the efficiency of the defense.
What makes this issue even more perplexing is that the Eagles boast a defense filled with star talent. Vic Fangio, widely regarded as one of the top defensive coordinators in the league, is responsible for guiding this unit.
Given the experience and talent on the roster, the Eagles’ struggles in this area have left many wondering why they haven’t been able to address this glaring weakness.
However, beyond the struggles on defense, Orlovsky’s most pressing concern lies with Nick Sirianni’s leadership and game management.
He expressed doubt in Sirianni’s ability to effectively steer the ship, particularly in high-pressure situations. This lack of trust, according to Orlovsky, may extend beyond the sidelines—suggesting that players within the locker room could be feeling the same way.
The idea that the Philadelphia Eagles’ locker room might not be completely behind their coach is an alarming prospect for a team with such high aspirations. Rumors of tension between quarterback Jalen Hurts and Sirianni, coupled with reports of discord within the team last season, have done little to quell these fears.
Last season, the Eagles saw similar issues arise, with their defense crumbling at critical moments and questions surrounding the synergy between Hurts and Sirianni. These recurring problems suggest that they may not have been fully addressed, which could spell trouble for the team moving forward.
Despite these concerns, it’s important to remember that winning can often mask deeper issues. While starting the season with two wins would have been ideal, the Eagles still have time to right the ship. That said, they need to make swift and meaningful adjustments if they hope to avoid further turmoil.
The defensive unit, with Fangio at the helm, certainly has the potential to improve. However, the bigger issue may be whether Sirianni can regain the trust of his players and prove that he’s capable of leading this team in the long term.
If he cannot, it’s possible that the Eagles will be forced to consider a change at the head coaching position after the season.
For now, the Philadelphia Eagles are left searching for answers, and with every game, the pressure mounts. Nick Sirianni finds himself at the center of the storm, and if the team doesn’t start to meet expectations soon, this season could become a pivotal chapter in his coaching career.
