The NFL is turning its attention to the 2026 NFL Draft, with teams finalizing their draft boards in preparation for the 2026 Super Bowl.
The Philadelphia Eagles enter this phase just a year removed from their second Super Bowl title. After a playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the organization made significant changes — most notably parting ways with another offensive coordinator.
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Since then, quarterback Jalen Hurts has faced increased attention from the media and fans.
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A recent report placed much of the blame for the Eagles’ offensive woes in 2025 on Hurts. The debacle proved to be serious and cast a pall over the former Super Bowl MVP.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen injured
When an offense struggles, criticism almost always falls on the quarterback, and oftentimes on the offensive coordinator as well.
But does the current discussion around harm really hold up? Not just from a leadership standpoint, but from an entire offense standpoint?
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Critics were quick to point out Hurts’ limitations. These concerns are not new. However, his playmaking ability has always elevated his game. Maximizing that ability is entirely up to the coaching staff.
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Hurts has worked with five different offensive coordinators since entering the league. Only one man – Sean Steichen – served as his play-caller for more than a season.
Under Steichen and later Kellen Moore, Hearts flourished. Both coaches got head coaching opportunities in part because they built systems that maximized his strengths.
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They designed an offense that not only highlighted hurtful skills, but also created mismatches throughout the court. Notably, they have access to the same offensive staff as recent coordinators like Brian Johnson and Kevin Pattullo.
That said, development depends on more than just coaching. Hurts must continue to develop his game. The question remains: Has he done enough to improve himself and his teammates? Opinions differed widely. Some of the criticism carries weight.
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Recent reports have pointed to Hurts’ reluctance to move under center and his struggles in zone coverage. These are legitimate concerns — and they fall on Hurts, not the coaching staff.
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Still, suggesting the Eagles should move on from him would be an overreaction. It’s not just talent or coaching that makes a player win the Super Bowl MVP award. Success at this level requires collaboration.
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If Eagles fans want to blame head coach Nick Sirianni for the disappointment of the 2025 season.
As head coach, Sirianni is responsible for hiring effective coaches, developing talent and helping the team win. He also has to ensure stability in the locker room.
Disappointment with Hurts’ performance in 2025 is understandable. Everyone has a responsibility, but the head coach should bear the heaviest responsibility.
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