The Philadelphia Eagles had a 2023 season characterized by peaks and valleys. They kicked things off with an impressive 10-1 record, boasting victories over formidable opponents like the Cowboys, Chiefs, Bills, Rams, and Dolphins. However, their momentum faltered with a crushing 42-9 defeat against the 49ers in Week 13, hinting at vulnerabilities that would resurface.
The Philadelphia Eagles playing against the San Francisco 49ers
A Christmas Day triumph over the Giants marked their final win of the season, as they bowed out of the playoffs with a 32-9 Wild Card loss to the Buccaneers. This disappointing end, coupled with future Hall of Famer Jason Kelce’s retirement announcement, left a bitter taste and a season best forgotten.
The offseason, however, brought a wave of change and renewed optimism. The Eagles recruited offensive coordinator Kell Moore and seasoned defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, replacing Brian Johnson and Jonathan Gannon, respectively. General Manager Howie Roseman, known for his shrewd moves, further bolstered the roster. While the Eagles bid farewell to key players like Kelce, Fletcher Cox (retirement), and DeAndre Swift (free agency), they acquired significant talent on both sides of the ball.
The question remains: How far can this revamped Eagles team go?
Navigating Free Agency: Key Additions and Departures
The Eagles made strategic decisions during free agency, aiming to fill gaps and enhance their roster. Let’s delve into some notable moves:
Running Back Shuffle: The departure of DeAndre Swift to the Bears (3-year, $24 million deal) left a void in the running back position. Swift enjoyed a productive season with over 1,000 rushing yards and 1,250 total yards. However, the Eagles surprised many by signing former Giants running back Saquon Barkley to a 3-year, $37 million contract ($26 million guaranteed).
Saquon Barkley running with the ball during a game
This move sparked debate, as investing heavily in a free-agent running back, especially one with Barkley’s mileage (nearly 1,500 career touches) and approaching age (28 in February), carries inherent risks.
On the one hand, Barkley has the potential to thrive in a potent Eagles offense. Surrounded by a formidable offensive line, a playmaking quarterback in Jalen Hurts, and elite receiving options in A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert, Barkley could find himself in the best position for success in his NFL career.
However, concerns linger about his injury history and the short shelf life of running backs. The Eagles mitigated some risk with a contract structure that allows for an exit after next year.
Defensive Reinforcements: Recognizing the need to bolster their defense, the Eagles secured pass rusher Bryce Huff (formerly with the Jets) on a 3-year, $51 million contract ($34 million guaranteed). Huff, an undrafted free agent in 2020, has blossomed into a disruptive force. His 2023 performance (67 pressures, 10 sacks on 334 pass-rushing snaps) justifies the investment, and the Eagles protected themselves with a contract structure that allows for an out after the 2025 season.
The return of fan-favorite safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson brought cheers from the Philly faithful. Gardner-Johnson’s playing style and personality mesh well with the city and the franchise.
The signing of linebacker Deion Jones, a former Pro Bowl selection, provides experience and athleticism to the Eagles’ defense. Jones is known for his speed and playmaking ability, but he also has room for improvement in coverage.
Addressing Defensive Concerns: The Eagles’ defense fell short of expectations in 2023. They surrendered 400 or more yards in their final two regular season games and their Wild Card loss to the Buccaneers. This unit, ranked 30th in points allowed per game, often appeared out of sync.
While Vic Fangio’s arrival as defensive coordinator inspires hope, it’s unrealistic to expect a miraculous overnight transformation. The key for the 2024 Eagles defense is not to reach elite status, but rather to be “serviceable.” If they can avoid being a liability, their potent offense should be enough to secure victories.
The secondary remains an area of concern. James Bradberry, a standout in 2022, regressed at age 30. Darius Slay, a consistently good player throughout his career, will be a 33-year-old cornerback in 2024. The Eagles are counting on a breakout year from 2023 first-round pick Jordan Davis and continued development from linebacker Nakobe Dean to bolster the front seven.
The Importance of Pass Rush: Given the uncertainties in the secondary, generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks becomes paramount. The Eagles are banking on a few key players:
- Josh Sweat: Sweat has quietly developed into a reliable edge rusher. He has consistently produced, exceeding 40 pressures in each of the last three seasons (career-high 68 in 2023).
- Bryce Huff: The newly acquired Huff will be expected to make an immediate impact as a pass-rushing specialist.
- Javon Hargrave: The Eagles retained one of their best defensive players by re-signing defensive tackle Hargrave to a lucrative four-year contract. Hargrave is coming off a career year with 11 sacks.
If these players can consistently harass quarterbacks, it will alleviate pressure on the secondary.
Offensive Outlook: A Juggernaut Reloading
The Eagles’ offense, a potent force in 2023, has the potential to be even more explosive in 2024. With a wealth of talent at skill positions and an offensive line considered among the league’s best, the Eagles have the ingredients to lead the NFL in scoring.
Jalen Hurts: Taking the Next Step: Quarterback Jalen Hurts is poised for another leap forward. While his 2023 season was impressive (3,701 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, 760 rushing yards, 13 rushing touchdowns), there’s room for improvement in his overall efficiency and decision-making. With another year of experience and a better understanding of Nick Sirianni’s offensive system, Hurts could be in for an MVP-caliber season.
Saquon Barkley’s Fit: The addition of Saquon Barkley to the backfield brings a dynamic element. Barkley, known for his home-run hitting ability, will benefit from playing behind the Eagles’ stout offensive line and alongside a quarterback in Jalen Hurts who commands defensive attention.
A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith: A Formidable Duo: The Eagles possess a lethal receiving duo in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Brown, a physical specimen, has surpassed 1,400 receiving yards in each of the past two seasons. Smith, a precise route runner, provides a complementary skillset and is on the cusp of stardom.
Dallas Goedert: A Reliable Target: Tight end Dallas Goedert remains an integral part of the passing game. Goedert is a reliable target for Hurts, particularly in the red zone, and he is a willing blocker in the run game.
Offensive Line Continuity: The Eagles’ offensive line remains largely intact, providing stability and a foundation for success. Left tackle Jordan Mailata, left guard Landon Dickerson, center Jason Kelce, and right tackle Lane Johnson form a formidable unit. The one question mark is at right guard, where second-year player Cam Jurgens, who has impressed in limited action, is slated to start.
Rookies to Watch
The Eagles’ 2023 draft class yielded immediate contributors. Defensive tackle Jalen Carter, selected ninth overall, showcased flashes of dominance in his rookie season. Linebacker Nolan Smith, picked 30th overall, brings speed and athleticism to the defense.
Schedule Analysis
The Eagles face a challenging but manageable schedule in 2024. Key matchups include road games against the Chiefs, Bills, and Jets, and home contests against the Cowboys, Giants, and 49ers.
Conclusion: Super Bowl Aspirations
The Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2024 season with Super Bowl aspirations. Their high-powered offense, bolstered by the arrival of Saquon Barkley, is capable of keeping pace with any team in the league.
The defense, while a question mark, has the potential to be “good enough” if Vic Fangio can work his magic and key players stay healthy. The Eagles are a complete team with a good mix of established stars and promising young talent.
If they can navigate a tough schedule and stay relatively healthy, the Eagles have a legitimate chance to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in February 2025.
