The writing on the wall concerning the Eagles’ defensive coordinator position became evident when head coach Nick Sirianni, reacting to two consecutive losses, hastily removed Sean Desai from play-calling duties and replaced him with Matt Patricia. Although Desai retained a role on the staff, he was relegated to a coaching booth position. As Sirianni begins to strategize for the next season, assuming he retains his position and isn’t fired by Jeffrey Lurie, it appears that he has officially severed ties with Desai.
The Eagles’ defense, under Desai, displayed inconsistency, but there were notable positive aspects—something not observed during Patricia’s tenure. It is now apparent that Desai did not deserve an impromptu demotion mid-season, causing disruption for defensive players like Haason Reddick, Darius Slay, and Reed Blankenship, who highlighted the challenges of adapting to a new play-caller.
Sources: #Eagles coach Nick Sirianni has let go defensive coordinator Sean Desai, who lost play-calling duties late in the season.
Desai is likely to be in the mix for other DC opportunities.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 21, 2024
Before the Chiefs game, Andy Reid praised Desai as “brilliant,” and Desai demonstrated this brilliance, particularly in the early weeks of the season. Desai was also candid and upfront in press conferences, often taking responsibility for the team’s shortcomings and offering guidance to his players.
Desai unquestionably merits another opportunity in the NFL. However, considering the tumultuous events, it’s not surprising that Desai won’t be part of the Eagles in 2024—whether it was his decision or the team’s. What is surprising is that the Eagles retained him for an extended period after his demotion.