It’s called the City of Brotherly Love, even if Bill Parcells once dismissed it as a banana republic. It’s known for cheesesteaks and Tastykakes, but it’s hard to talk about the land of the Rocky statue without mentioning the Philadelphia Eagles. It’s been nearly impossible to mention them without revisiting the sins of this past season.
This felt like the year to chase a third Super Bowl title. Instead, the Eagles are watching the rest of the postseason from home. Adding to the frustration is a familiar problem: another offensive coordinator vacancy. It marks the fourth straight offseason the Eagles will be searching for one, dating back to Shane Steichen’s departure to Indianapolis after two seasons in the role.
As in 2023, much of the blame circles back to Nick Sirianni’s decision-making. Once again, he was allowed to choose his own coordinator. Once again, he promoted from within. Once again, it didn’t work. The progression from Brian Johnson to Kevin Patullo produced diminishing returns, raising the same uncomfortable questions.
Why not fire Nick Sirianni? He’s the common denominator. Why does he get a pass? Those questions are asked 11 months after his Super Bowl win.
There’s merit to the argument. Johnson and Patullo failed while running Sirianni’s offense, not their own. Both became convenient scapegoats, but again, Sirianni led this team to two Super Bowls and won one. History suggests Jeffrey Lurie isn’t inclined to dismiss a head coach with Sirianni’s résumé, but if we’re back in this spot next season, he=is hand may be forced
Sirianni isn’t an X’s-and-O’s savant, but he’s a proven leader. He’s one of the league’s best at fostering a positive work environment. Those are his most endearing traits, and perhaps his saving graces, for now. It’s a point Devan Kaney recently highlighted.
Devan Kaney on Nick Sirianni:
“I do think that he is an incredible culture setter…I think the players are bought in on Sirianni and that goes a really long way.” pic.twitter.com/0UzTxeeN6I
— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) January 14, 2026
And yes, that was positivity coming from 94 WIP’s Morning Team. That alone might catch some off guard, though we’re accustomed to hearing optimism from fellow morning voice Jon Ritchie. Plus, we have Ike Reese, who gives us a break in the afternoons.
We know what we sign up for. Philly sports radio, especially in the mornings, isn’t usually the place you go for praise. Don’t blame the messengers. It’s the beat’s nature.
Philadelphia is the city of the Liberty Bell, Ben Franklin, and firsts, but it’s also “Negadelphia” for a reason. Still, after a rough week and a winnable game that slipped away, it didn’t hurt to hear something kind. Kaney deserves credit for that.
Philadelphia is the city of the Liberty Bell, Ben Franklin, and firsts—but it’s also “Negadelphia” for a reason. Still, after a rough week and a winnable game that slipped away, it didn’t hurt to hear something kind. Kaney deserves credit for that.
Now it’s back to business. Another offensive coordinator search awaits, and once again, the margin for error is slim. Balance and positivity matter, but so does getting this one right. The new OC has yet to be named, but as Peter Schrager states, he knows what he’s walking into.
Accountability comes first. Cheesteaks will follow if he gets this offense back on track again. Just ask Vic Fangio or Jay Wright. Coaching in this city can be a rewarding experience if one gives it their all and does a good job.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Nick Sirianni receives uncommon support in sometimes hostile territory
