As unfair as it may be, success always comes at a price. In this case, continuity could take a huge blow due to the Eagles’ success.
According to NFL reporter Benjamin Albright, several front office members mentioned both Eagles’ offensive coordinator Shane Steichen (unanimously) and defensive coordinator Jonathon Gannon as hot names for potential head coaching gigs in 2023.
Asked a few front office types for the hot names for this HC cycle.
Shane Steichen (unanimously mentioned), Demeco Ryans, Dan Quinn, Jonathan Gannon, Mike Kafka, Clint Hurtt, Jarod Mayo and Frank Reich were all mentioned.
— Benjamin Allbright (@AllbrightNFL) November 9, 2022
Both are young, budding coaches on the best team in the league. Add in the fact that the Eagles are constantly poached – both in their staff and front office – by other teams, even in down years, and everyone should have seen this coming.
Gannon had attracted significant interest this past offseason for several HC openings but ultimately wasn’t selected. Given the impressive results the team has shown on the defense, it stands to reason Gannon will have more momentum this time around.
As for Steichen, he might be the tougher of the two to lose. We’ve learned never to underestimate the importance of assistant coaches, especially when they’re the ones calling the plays.
Plus, continuity has been shown to play a sizable role in a team’s sustained success. Doug Pederson and Jim Schwartz were the only key constants during the Dougy P years. So, it would be nice to have at least one more year in a row with the current group of coaches.
Given that and the mixed results of Sirianni’s play-calling at times last season, where Steichen lands are something to keep an eye on.
However, if the Eagles lose him, a familiar friend might take his place…
Is Frank Reich Coming Back To Philly?
After Frank Reich’s firing Monday, it was only natural to wonder about him reuniting with one of his former colleagues, whether with Pederson down in Jacksonville or with Sirianni in Philly.
On Thursday, Sirianni was asked by reporters about it, and he left the door open as wide as he possibly could:
“We’ll see how that goes. I don’t know yet. Again, you know how I feel about Frank. I’m always going to use him as a consultant whether he’s in the building or if he’s not in the building. I haven’t really even thought of that to be completely honest with you. We’re just really focused on today to get ready for Washington.”
Reich coming back to Philadelphia right now in a consultant role would be the best-case scenario for everyone involved for several reasons.
First, it would give Sirianni another trusted and creative offensive mind to help keep the offense productive.
It would also allow Reich to continue coaching, perhaps setting himself up for another HC gig as soon as this offseason.
Lastly – and most importantly – it would give the Eagles an incredible safety blanket in case Steichen leaves. Given the familiarity between Reich and Sirianni, I have no doubt Reich would be able to step in for Steichen, and the offense wouldn’t miss a beat.
Plus, it’s about time Reich finally got to work with an MVP-caliber QB again. At the very least, options are available to help ensure the Eagles’ staff isn’t completely ravaged by the time spring rolls around.
