The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly making a significant move in their search for a new offensive coordinator, with former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll scheduled to interview for the vacancy. This development, first reported by Adam Schefter, signals a potential reunion for Daboll with Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni and brings a familiar face back into the orbit of quarterback Jalen Hurts.
A Familiar Face Returns to the Picture
Following the conclusion of their season, the Eagles moved on from Kevin Patullo after just one year as the offensive coordinator. The search for his replacement has been closely watched, and Daboll’s interview represents a high-profile addition to the list of candidates. This move is particularly noteworthy given the deep professional ties Daboll shares with the Eagles’ leadership.
Ties to Sirianni and Hurts
Brian Daboll and Nick Sirianni have a history that dates back to their time with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2012, where Daboll served as the offensive coordinator while Sirianni coached the wide receivers. This shared experience under former Chiefs coach Romeo Crennel could foster a strong working relationship as the Eagles look to revitalize their offensive scheme.
Furthermore, Daboll coached Jalen Hurts during his tenure as the offensive coordinator at the University of Alabama in 2017. Hurts thrived under Daboll's guidance that season, which was pivotal in his development as a collegiate star. The prospect of Daboll returning to mentor Hurts, who has shown flashes of elite play but also struggled with consistency, is a compelling storyline for Eagles fans.
Daboll's Coaching Resume: Highs and Lows
Daboll's coaching career is marked by significant successes, particularly in developing quarterbacks, interspersed with challenging stints as a head coach. His time as the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills under Sean McDermott was highly successful. From 2018 to 2021, the Bills boasted two top-5 offenses, culminating in Daboll earning the NFL Assistant Coach of the Year award in 2020 for his instrumental role in transforming Josh Allen into an MVP candidate.
The Giants Chapter
Daboll took the reins as the Giants head coach following the 2021 season. His debut year was promising: the team finished 9-7-1, securing their first winning season since 2016 and winning a wild-card game. However, the subsequent three seasons saw a sharp decline, with the team finishing 6-11, 3-14, and 4-13. Daboll was ultimately fired in November of the past season with a 2-8 record.
Despite the overall record as a head coach, Daboll maintained strong relationships with players during his time in New York. Current Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, who played under Daboll from 2022 to 2023, spoke highly of their relationship, noting that Daboll reached out to wish him luck with the Eagles before the 2024 season. Barkley’s success, including a 1,300-yard rushing season in 2022, highlights Daboll’s ability to maximize offensive talent.
The Eagles' Offensive Coordinator Search Heats Up
The Eagles have been thorough in their search, interviewing several high-profile candidates. In addition to Daboll, the team has reportedly spoken with Colts OC Jim Bob Cooter, Falcons OC Zac Robinson, and former Giants OC/interim coach Mike Kafka. The pressure is on to find the right fit, as the person who takes the role will be Sirianni’s fifth offensive coordinator in six years and Hurts’ seventh play-caller since his rookie year.
Daboll's experience is extensive, spanning years under Bill Belichick with the Patriots, stints with the Browns and Dolphins, and his time at Alabama. This broad exposure to different offensive philosophies and player development environments makes him a compelling candidate for a team looking to rebound after a disappointing finish to the 2024 season.
What Daboll Brings to Philadelphia
If hired, Daboll would bring a proven track record of offensive innovation and quarterback development. His success in Buffalo with Josh Allen demonstrates his ability to build an offense around a dynamic, dual-threat quarterback, a profile that mirrors Jalen Hurts. The potential for Daboll to reunite with Hurts and Sirianni could provide the stability and proven schematic knowledge the Eagles' offense needs heading into a critical season.
The decision on the next offensive coordinator will be crucial for the Eagles’ immediate future. Brian Daboll’s interview signals that the team is considering candidates with significant head coaching experience and a history of offensive success, even if his recent tenure in New York ended abruptly. The NFL coaching carousel continues to turn, and Philadelphia is firmly in the spotlight.
