Philadelphia Eagles 2024 Preview

The Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2024 season with high expectations, despite a somewhat disappointing end to their 2023 campaign. Coming off an 11-6 record and another playoff appearance, the Eagles are looking to build on their success and take the next step towards a Super Bowl run.

With a win total over/under set at 10.5—the second-highest in the NFL—the pressure is on for this team to deliver.

Let’s break down the key insights and what to expect from the Eagles this season.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Eagles have undergone significant changes in their coaching staff, with Vic Fangio taking over as defensive coordinator and Kellen Moore stepping in as offensive coordinator. Despite these shifts, the team’s core remains strong, especially on offense, where Jalen Hurts leads a unit packed with playmakers. However, the defense, which struggled mightily last season, will need a major turnaround if the Eagles are to live up to their lofty expectations.

Offensive Changes

Jalen Hurts’ Bounce-Back Potential:

Mixed 2023 Performance: Jalen Hurts had an up-and-down season in 2023, throwing 15 interceptions against 23 touchdowns. While his passing numbers were a bit underwhelming, Hurts’ legs were a key part of his game, as he rushed for over 600 yards and punched in 15 rushing touchdowns. The Eagles are hoping Kellen Moore can help Hurts cut down on turnovers and maximize his dual-threat abilities.
Loaded Receiving Corps:
- A.J. Brown: Brown was a force last season, catching over 100 passes for more than 1,400 yards and 7 touchdowns. His connection with Hurts is one of the most dangerous in the league.
- DeVonta Smith: Smith continued his steady production, posting over 1,000 yards and 7 touchdowns on more than 80 catches. He remains a reliable target for Hurts.
- Dallas Goedert: Despite missing some games, Goedert still contributed 550 yards and 3 touchdowns. He’ll be an important piece in the middle of the field.
Saquon Barkley Addition:
- Upgrade at Running Back: The Eagles added Saquon Barkley, who comes over from the Giants after a 962-yard season. Barkley is a dynamic playmaker who adds another dimension to the Eagles’ offense, especially in the passing game where he had over 40 catches and 4 receiving touchdowns last year.
- Replacing DeAndre Swift: Swift, who had over 1,000 rushing yards and made the Pro Bowl, is a big loss. Barkley is expected to fill that void, though the difference between the two may not be as significant as some might think.

Offensive Line Stability:

Big Shoes to Fill: The offensive line remains mostly intact, but the loss of All-Pro center Jason Kelce is significant. Cam Jurgens, a third-year player, will slide over from guard to take over at center, while the left guard position remains open for competition. Left tackle Jordan Mailata, who gave up seven sacks last season, will need to improve to keep Hurts upright.

Defensive Adjustments

A Defense in Need of a Turnaround:

Struggles in 2023: The Eagles’ defense was a major weak point last season, ranking 30th in points allowed per game and 31st on third down. They also struggled mightily in the red zone, allowing opposing offenses to convert far too often.
Pass Rush Concerns:
- Decline in Production: After leading the league in sacks in 2022, the Eagles’ pass rush fell off a cliff in 2023, finishing tied for 19th in sacks. This lack of pressure exposed their secondary, which allowed a passer rating of 29th in the league.
- Roster Changes: The Eagles parted ways with key pass rushers, including Hassan Reddick, who had 11 sacks last season but was traded to the Jets. They acquired Bryce Huff from New York, who led the Jets with 10 sacks, but it remains to be seen if he can replicate that success in Philadelphia.
- Young Talent: Rookie defensive tackle Jalen Carter had an impressive debut season with 6 sacks and was in the running for Defensive Rookie of the Year. His continued development will be crucial for the Eagles’ defensive front.

Linebacker and Secondary Overhaul:

New Faces: The Eagles brought in Devin White, a tackle machine from Tampa Bay, to anchor the linebacker corps. They also added rookies Quinlan Mitchell and Cooper DeJean in the secondary, both of whom could see significant playing time.
Veteran Presence: James Bradberry had a tough 2023 season, allowing a passer rating of over 110 and giving up 9 touchdowns. He’ll need to bounce back for the Eagles to improve defensively. Darius Slay, on the other hand, had a strong season, allowing a sub-90 passer rating and defending 15 passes.

Season Outlook

The Eagles have a wide range of possible outcomes this season. Their win total floor and ceiling give a glimpse into the volatility and potential that this team possesses:

Win Total Floor: 10 Wins

Why? The Eagles’ offense remains potent, but the defense’s struggles could hold them back. If the pass rush doesn’t return to form and the secondary continues to give up big plays, the Eagles could find themselves in more shootouts than they’d like.

Win Total Ceiling: 14 Wins

Why? If Jalen Hurts can reduce his turnovers, the addition of Saquon Barkley boosts the running game, and the defense improves under Vic Fangio, the Eagles have the talent to be one of the top teams in the NFL. A 14-3 record would put them in prime position for another deep playoff run.

Final Thoughts

The Philadelphia Eagles are a team with high expectations and the potential to be a Super Bowl contender. However, much of their success will hinge on how well Jalen Hurts bounces back from a turnover-prone 2023 season and whether the defense can regain its 2022 form. The addition of Saquon Barkley adds another weapon to an already loaded offense, but the real key will be the defense’s ability to stop opposing teams and get off the field on third down.

Key Points Recap

Jalen Hurts must cut down on interceptions and continue to utilize his legs effectively.
A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert remain one of the most dangerous receiving trios in the NFL.
Saquon Barkley replaces DeAndre Swift in the backfield, potentially adding more explosiveness to the offense.
The offensive line will miss Jason Kelce, with Cam Jurgens stepping in at center.
The defense needs a major turnaround, especially in the pass rush and third-down situations.
Bryce Huff and Jalen Carter will be key players in revitalizing the Eagles’ defensive front.
The secondary is a mixed bag, with Darius Slay performing well but James Bradberry needing to bounce back.

Eagles fans, get ready for a season with high stakes and even higher expectations. Whether the team hits their ceiling or their floor will depend largely on how well they adapt to the changes and rise to the challenges that lie ahead.

Subscribe to our newsletter