Report: Hurts-Sirianni relationship remains 'work in progress'
The relationship between Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and head coach Nick Sirianni remains a "work in progress," The Athletic's Dianna Russini reports.
Despite the Eagles jumping to a 10-1 mark to begin the 2023 campaign, each of those victories was a "grind," and "things weren't exactly perfect behind the scenes and from a culture standpoint," Russini adds.
Philadelphia lost five of its final six games of the regular season, with the disconnect between Sirianni and Hurts reportedly an issue prior to the team's struggles.
Among the main problems between the coach and franchise quarterback was Sirianni's conservative play-calling, according to Russini. Sirianni's outspoken nature also apparently conflicted with Hurts' reserved personality.
Philadelphia finished the 2023 season eighth in yards per game (354.4) and seventh in points per contest (25.5). The organization dismissed offensive coordinator Brian Johnson after the season, but the Eagles' conservative and run-first approach, especially in the red zone, was "100% Sirianni's offense you were watching," Russini notes.
The Eagles hired Kellen Moore as their new offensive coordinator and Vic Fangio to run the defense. This is the second consecutive offseason that Philly replaced both coordinators.
Sirianni hasn't called offensive plays for Philadelphia in the last few years but admitted earlier this week that giving up the duties hasn't been easy for him, per Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff Neiburg. However, he added that he's confident it's the best outcome for the team and sees "a lot of positives from it."
General manager Howie Roseman recently said he still believes the Eagles have a championship-caliber roster after appearing in Super Bowl LVII two seasons ago. Philadelphia added several high-profile acquisitions this offseason, including Saquon Barkley, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Devin White.