REPORT: Roob’s Ten Observations: An unfounded critique of the Eagles

Here are the Roob’s 10 Random Eagles Offseason Observations for this week. Is it too emotional? Not emotional enough?

1.Since the season ended, there have been significant complaints about the emotional aspects of the Eagles’ personnel, with criticisms directed at Nick Sirianni, A.J. Brown, and Jalen Hurts. However, it’s worth noting that these same qualities were celebrated during the Eagles’ Super Bowl run just a year ago. Back then, Sirianni’s colorful sideline presence, Brown’s passionate demeanor, and Hurts’ composed demeanor were viewed positively.

It’s perplexing how these traits have suddenly become perceived as problems after a series of losses. The Eagles’ recent struggles can’t simply be attributed to emotional factors alone. Instead, the underlying issue lies in a lack of talent and coaching.

While there’s always room for improvement, it’s crucial for individuals not to try to change who they are. Authenticity is key, and attempting to be something they’re not will be transparent to those around them. What worked for the Eagles in 2022 can still be effective in 2024 if the right personnel are in place.

2. The Eagles this season were the first team in 75 years to have a punter averaging at least 49 yards per punt and a returner averaging at least 14 yards per return, with Britain Covey averaging 14.4 yards and Braden Mann 49.8 yards. With Glenn Dobbs averaging 49.1 yards on 68 punt returns and Herm Wedemeyer averaging 16.0 yards per return, the Los Angeles Dons had that special teams double in 1948. The Dons participated in the former AAFC from 1946 to 1949; the AAFC and NFL merged in 1950, absorbing the AAFC’s records and statistics.

3. Randall Cunningham, who won 39 games under Buddy Ryan from 1986 to 1990 and 22 under Rich Kotite from 1991 to 1995, is the only quarterback in Eagles history to win at least 20 games under two head coaches. In addition, he took home victories in 1985 under Marion Campbell and 1995 under Ray Rhodes. Additionally, Cunningham is the only quarterback in Eagles history to have triumphed in contests under four different head coaches.

4. The Eagles’ 2018 wild-card victory over the Bears featured a touchdown pass from Nick Foles to Golden Tate with 61 seconds remaining. It was the team’s first game-winning 4th-down touchdown pass in an NFL postseason since at least 42 years ago. NFL game books prior to 1982 are sadly unavailable, but since then, Foles is the only quarterback to toss a touchdown pass on fourth down in the last 61 seconds of a playoff game.

5. The Correll Buckhalter narrative appears even more remarkable in retrospect, nearly two decades after its inception. Despite breaking Keith Byars’ franchise record for rookie rushing yards in 2001, he encountered a series of setbacks that could have derailed his career. Following a torn ACL in 2002 and subsequent knee surgeries in 2004 and 2005, Buckhalter missed significant time during his prime years. Entering the 2006 season at 28 years old, with only 30 games played in five NFL seasons and a prolonged absence of 966 days, the odds were stacked against him. However, he defied expectations, returning to the field and performing admirably.

Despite enduring numerous injuries and surgeries, Buckhalter maintained a positive attitude and infectious smile throughout his challenges. From 2006 to 2009, he showcased his talent by averaging 4.9 yards per carry, ranking among the NFL’s top running backs with at least 300 carries. Despite his shortened career, Buckhalter’s impressive statistics place him among the Eagles’ elite running backs, with career averages surpassed only by Miles Sanders, LeSean McCoy, Brian Westbrook, and Charlie Garner.

Had it not been for his knee injuries, Buckhalter had the potential to become a Pro Bowl-caliber running back, given his exceptional talent and versatile skill set. His career conclusion with the Broncos, alongside teammate Brian Dawkins, adds another layer to his inspiring journey. Together, Buckhalter and Dawkins epitomize resilience and perseverance, serving as enduring symbols of inspiration for Eagles fans everywhere.

6. Saquon Barkley averaged 8.9 yards per carry and 116 running yards per game as a rookie in 2018 versus the Eagles. He has averaged 56 yards a game and 3.7 yards per rush in the last eight games.

7. 

As the draft approaches in two months, Howie Roseman has been proactive in bolstering the roster by adding five draft picks who, for various reasons, didn’t find success elsewhere. What’s intriguing is that these players were once considered promising prospects, with several being selected relatively high in their respective drafts.

Among the additions are edge rusher Julian Okwara, running back Tyrion Davis-Price, and linebacker Terell Lewis, all of whom were 3rd-round picks by other teams. Okwara was drafted by the Lions in 2020, Davis-Price by the 49ers in 2022, and Lewis by the Rams in 2020. Additionally, receiver Jacob Harris was the Rams’ 4th-round pick in 2019, while offensive lineman Darian Kinnard was the Chiefs’ 5th-round pick in 2022.

These acquisitions complement mid-season practice squad additions like linebacker Brandon Smith, running back Lew Nichols, and offensive lineman Lecitus Smith, all of whom were also former draft picks. Altogether, Roseman has brought in eight players who will have the opportunity to showcase their talent during OTAs, each receiving a second chance, or in some cases, a third or fourth chance, to prove themselves.

While these players are considered longshots, they offer a no-risk, high-reward proposition. Despite their low cost, they were once highly regarded prospects, making them intriguing additions to the roster. While most street pickups are undrafted players from small schools, this group stands out because of their prior draft pedigree and potential upside. In essence, it’s a low-risk gamble with the possibility of significant returns.

8. 

In the past year, twenty-five Eagles players started at least one game, but only nine of them are confirmed to remain with the team in 2024: Darius Slay, Josh Sweat, Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, Kelee Ringo, Milton Williams, Nakobe Dean, Sydney Brown, and Reed Blankenship. As for the remaining 17 players:

– Three have already departed: Terrell Edmunds, Christian Ellis, and Kentavius Street.
– Six were temporary solutions for the previous year and are either free agents or will soon be: Kevin Byard, Zach Cunningham, Nicholas Morrow, Bradley Roby, Justin Evans, and Shaq Leonard.
– Fletcher Cox’s return is uncertain.
– James Bradberry’s retention is unnecessary.
– Haason Reddick could be subject to trade discussions.
– The Eagles need to address Avonte Maddox’s cumbersome contract.
– Young defensive backs Mario Goodrich and Josh Jobe, along with linebacker Ben VanSumeren, must compete for roster spots during training camp.

While such turnover is typically viewed negatively, in this case, it’s deemed necessary for the Eagles’ future success.

9. Since the 1974 Steelers allowed 219.6 yards per game, the 1991 Eagles allowed 221.8 yards per game, the fewest yards by any team in any season and the fewest ever in a 16-game season. For both teams, Bud Carson served as the defensive coordinator.

10. My favorite aspect of A.J. Brown’s discussion on the WIP mid-day show Friday was his commentary on Terrell Owens. Initially, Brown expressed his familiarity with T.O., adding, “He’s a great person.” However, he made it clear that he differs significantly from Owens: “I don’t behave like that. I don’t engage in any of those actions.” Indeed, the dissimilarities between the two are evident, despite both being regarded as among the best wide receivers in the region. Owens was known for his self-centered approach, and when he didn’t receive the desired contract extension after the 2004 season, he systematically dismantled the franchise. Brown, on the other hand, is focused on winning and understands that his involvement enhances the Eagles’ chances of success. While he may desire the ball, it’s because he believes it contributes to winning football games, not solely for personal accolades like T.O. When Brown records at least 60 yards, the Eagles boast a 20-5 record; when he doesn’t, they’re 5-4. Similarly, they hold a 12-1 record when he catches a touchdown versus 13-8 when he doesn’t. The lamentable aspect of T.O.’s career is that despite his immense talent, his inability to prioritize team success over personal aspirations hindered him from achieving even greater heights. Despite Brown’s comparable talent, his commitment lies in aiding the Eagles in victory, rather than contributing to their downfall.