Skip to content

Report: Sirianni fires Eagles DC Desai

Tim Nwachukwu / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has let go of defensive coordinator Sean Desai, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Sirianni, whose future in Philadelphia still hasn't been confirmed, stripped Desai of defensive play-calling duties prior to the Week 15 game against the Seattle Seahawks. Matt Patricia was tasked with calling plays instead.

However, Patricia also won't return as he plans to explore other options, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports. Patricia was not under contract for 2024.

Giving play-calling duties to Patricia did little to improve the Eagles' poor defense. Philadelphia gave up 20, 25, 35, 27, and 32 points in the team's last five games - including the playoffs - under Patricia.

The Eagles are expected to make numerous changes to their coaching staff if Sirianni returns. His future has been the focus of heavy speculation following his team's collapse down the stretch. Philly lost six of its last seven games, including a 32-9 blowout loss in the wild-card round to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Sirianni reportedly met with team owner Jeffrey Lurie to present his ideas for improving the club, which include potentially bringing in new coordinators, according to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, Brooks Kubena, and Larry Holder.

Sirianni and general manager Howie Roseman have reached out to former New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale and ex-Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen over the last week, among others, per Russini.

Desai spent only one season in Philadelphia. His unit ranked 30th in points allowed. He's likely to be in the mix for other defensive coordinator opportunities around the league, Rapoport adds.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox