The NFL is shifting its focus to the 2026 NFL Draft, and teams are finalizing their draft boards as they prepare to chase a Super Bowl in 2026.
The Philadelphia Eagles enter this phase just one year removed from their second Super Bowl title. After a postseason loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the organization made significant changes—most notably parting ways with yet another offensive coordinator.
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Since then, quarterback Jalen Hurts has faced mounting scrutiny from both the media and fans.
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A recent report placed a heavy share of the blame for the Eagles’ struggling 2025 offense on Hurts. The breakdown proved harsh and cast a shadow over the former Super Bowl MVP.
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Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts looks to throw a pass in heavy rain against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
When an offense falters, criticism almost always lands on the quarterback—and often the offensive coordinator as well.
But does the current discourse surrounding Hurts actually hold up? Not just from a leadership standpoint, but when considering the offense as a whole?
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Critics have been quick to point out Hurts’ limitations. Those concerns aren’t new. However, his elite playmaking ability has always elevated his game. Maximizing that ability falls squarely on the coaching staff.
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Hurts has worked with five different offensive coordinators since entering the league. Only one—Shane Steichen—served as his play caller for more than a single season.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) makes a pass against Detroit Lions during the second half at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
Under Steichen and later Kellen Moore, Hurts thrived. Both coaches earned head coaching opportunities in part because they built systems that maximized his strengths.
They designed offenses that not only highlighted Hurts’ skill set but also created mismatches across the field. Notably, they had access to the same offensive personnel as more recent coordinators like Brian Johnson and Kevin Patullo.
That said, development isn’t solely on coaching. Hurts must continue to evolve his own game. The question remains: is he doing enough to elevate both himself and his teammates? Opinions vary widely. Some criticisms carry weight.
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The recent report pointed to Hurts’ reluctance to operate under center and his struggles against zone coverage. Those are legitimate concerns—and they fall on Hurts, not the coaching staff.
Super Bowl LIX
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) passes the Vince Lombardi Trophy to Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Still, suggesting the Eagles should move on from him is an overreaction. Players don’t win Super Bowl MVP awards based on talent or coaching alone. Success at that level requires collaboration.
If Eagles fans want to assign blame for the disappointment of the 2025 season, they should look to head coach Nick Sirianni.
As the head coach, Sirianni bears responsibility for hiring effective coaches, developing talent, and putting his team in position to win. He also must ensure the locker room stays bought in.
Frustration with Hurts’ 2025 performance is understandable. Everyone shares responsibility—but the head coach should carry the heaviest burden.
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