The progression of Nick Sirianni has been just as impressive as the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2021 season.
As one of seven rookie coaches this year, the 40-year-old went from someone who may not survive the entirety of the season to a Coach of the Year contender. Better yet, Sirianni grew his own roots so well that he’s the only rookie head coach to lead his team to playoffs this season.
Just one rookie head coach led his team to the playoffs this season: Nick Sirianni. pic.twitter.com/p82XmJWflD
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) January 10, 2022
KANSAS CITY ROOTS TO PHILADELPHIA BLOOMS
Beginning his career as the offensive quality control coach for the Kansas City Chiefs, Sirianni added wide receivers coach, quarterbacks coach, and offensive coordinator to his resume.
Following his move to Philadelphia, Sirianni introduced himself to fans in a shaky press conference. Months later, many questioned his coaching style after playing “rock, paper, scissors” with prospective draft picks. And we can’t forget the picture of the flower he showed his team after a 2-5 start to the season.
His capability to call plays was questioned week after week during game time. In early October, despite what critics thought, Sirianni had no plans to give up.
He stated, “We’re going to continue to do the things we’ve been doing, as far as play calling and game planning. We feel like we have a good process there of how we go through it. I am fortunate that on this staff, I have guys that have experience calling games, which is helping me throughout games. So, we’re going to continue to stick with that.”
He did just that, and it worked. The Eagles went from barely running the ball, to becoming the league’s No. 1 leading rushing team. Pretty good for a guy who was interviewed only by one team — the Eagles.
The head coach stated, “My job is to block out the outside noise. Whether it’s telling me that I’m really good…or whether it’s telling me that I stink, and that my catchphrases about growing roots stink.”
Now, with a 9-8 season, a rookie coach along with his near-rookie quarterback are going to the playoffs. The Philadelphia Eagles will play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Florida on Sunday at 1 PM.