Why eagles are interested in McDaniels
Eagles writer Zach Berman: McDaniels is an excellent offensive coach, much in demand in recent years. He accepted the job at Colts in 2018 before giving up and staying in New England. So the interest is understandable, given McDaniels’ reputation and creativity in designing and reporting crimes, which evolved over two decades in New England. Most of McDaniels ‘success came with Tom Brady as a defender – McDaniels’ teams didn’t finish in the first half of the league in DVOA in the four seasons he called games without Brady – so the Eagles would probably need to take that into account.
They also need to determine how McDaniels has changed since a short season as a Broncos coach. But if you simply look at the history of an assistant coach six times Super Bowl champion who oversaw a record attack in 2007 and was one of the NFL’s most decorated offensive coordinators this decade, that would explain the Eagles’ interest.
Why this may be a controversial move
Bo Wulf, Eagles beat writer: McDaniels would be a controversial hiring. His stint as a Broncos coach ended before his second full season and included a filming scandal. He had little offensive success without Brady and he is famous for giving up the Colts’ coaching role, which paved the way for Frank Reich’s departure from Philadelphia. And, of course, no one is less popular in Philadelphia than the Patriots. Therefore, hiring them would be difficult to sell, but the Eagles are wisely launching a wide network.
What kind of trainer is Lurie looking for?
Berman: Lurie showed a preference for offensive coaches that Lurie believes can develop defenders. His last three coaching hires (Doug Pederson in 2016, Chip Kelly in 2013 and Andy Reid in 1999) fit that description and even called up moves when he came to Philadelphia. He hasn’t hired a defensive coach since Ray Rhodes in 1995.
However, Lurie suggested after firing Pederson that the contractor need not be an offensive coach. He said the coach must “be a leader of coaches, a leader of players.” The Eagles’ well-known interviews have already included two defensive coaches. Still, Lurie has registered that he expects the Eagles to have an attack in the top five. Unless there is a plan for a defensive coach to attract a dynamic offensive coordinator, Lurie will likely tend to attack.
(Photo: Jasen Vinlove / USA Today)