The Eagles’ head coach and QB found ways to connect during the bye week that helped change the trajectory of the season.
There’s no arguing that the vibes in Philly have been drastically different following their Week 5 bye, and while head coach Nick Sirianni and quarterback Jalen Hurts both spoke briefly about the work they put in, we’re learning that the pair’s growing relationship is a big part of their new-found success.
Following the team’s bye, Hurts spoke to reporters and called it the most effective bye week he’s ever had. The QB talked about conversations he had with Sirianni and for the first time in nearly a year, was effusive in his support and praise of the head coach. It was the first sign that what many had considered an icy relationship was beginning to thaw, if not completely warmed up.
In the weeks that followed, the Eagles were notching win-after-win, and while there were things that needed to be cleaned up, overall the energy was positive and the team seemed to be building toward something rather than scrambling to figure it out.
Ahead of Philadelphia’s Week 13 game against the Ravens, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that the meeting(s) of the minds between Sirianni and Hurts during the bye week was actually a huge catalyst to the renewed spirit of the team.
“According to a source, Hurts and Sirianni spent roughly two hours on phones, FaceTime, Zoom and in person. Then, randomly, they’d talk for 30 minutes a day if something came up. They reviewed call sheets, talked about the team’s identity and Hurts asked pointed questions about what he can improve upon.
And it wasn’t just the two of them. The entire staff would get involved, with the offensive line and [Saquon] Barkley joining in with respected offensive staffers such as OC Kellen Moore and passing game coordinator and associate head coach Kevin Patullo, as well.
Most teams are happy to take a full breather during the bye. But, in part because of the Eagles’ early bye and not necessarily needing rest, all parties continued to work.”
With their relationship out of the spotlight during the bye week, the pair was actually able to make progress and connect as they questioned nearly every aspect of their process, preparation, and scheme. The desire from both Sirianni and Hurts led the charge, and mutual respect certainly formed in the days and weeks that followed.
There’s a reason that Sirianni’s first core value for the team is connection. When they’re all connected and on the same page, special things happen on the football field, and the Eagles are starting to really see that energy translate on game day.
