2021 Philadelphia Eagles: Building for the Future

The Eagles appear to be starting over after winning the Super Bowl just three years ago. They traded Carson Wentz and are going with 2nd year quarterback Jalen Hurts who is a better runner than passer. They drafted wide receiver Devonta Smith out of Alabama to improve an inadequate passing game. They hired Nick Sirianni who is 39 years ago and has put together one of the youngest coaching staffs in the league. Time will tell if that is a good thing in pro football.

Jalen Hurts is a proven winner and leader which all great quarterbacks are. He is strong and has no fear. However, is he a good enough passer for the NFL? We are about to find out. Running back Miles Sanders had somewhat of a down year in 2020 but he is capable. The Eagles are hoping Smith will give the vertical passing game a boost. He scored 23 touchdowns for Alabama in 2020. He will be joined by Greg Ward Jr. who is a decent option from the slot. The offensive line was injured last year and when they are healthy they are solid led by Lane Johnson, Jason Kelce, and Brandon Brooks.

The defensive line is led by Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham. Eric Wilson led the Vikings in tackles last year and he was brought in to improve the linebacking position. The secondary is a trouble spot and they signed Anthony Harris who had six interceptions two years ago with the Vikings If they can improve, the defense will be ok.

Schedule:

Must Wins: LA Chargers, New Orleans, Washington, NY Giants, at NY Jets

Toss-Ups: at Atlanta, at Carolina, at Detroit, at Denver, at NY Giants, at Washington, Dallas

Probable Losses: San Francisco, at Dallas, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, at Las Vegas,

Summary in Two Sentences: I’m a big fan but I’m not sure he is a good enough passer for the NFL, so they are taking a big risk. This looks like a team that will compete but are just not good enough to win much.

Predicted Finish: 4th Place in the NFC East