Philadelphia Eagles fans expected a slaughter last Sunday when the Carolina Panthers took the field in Philadelphia. However, the game was way too close for comfort as the Eagles were one dropped pass away from losing. While it was not the only cause for concern on Sunday, a major talking point from the game was the struggle of the Eagles passing offense and Jalen Hurts.
Specifically, there seems to be a huge disconnect between Jalen Hurts and star receiver, A.J. Brown. After the game, Brandon Graham went on the radio and sparked an unintentional fire in the media. In the interview, he alluded to problems between Hurts and Brown. Graham said, “They were friends, but things have changed.”
The Good and the Bad of the Eagles Drama
To Graham’s credit, he went back to the media quickly to diffuse the situation as best as he could. He admitted he was wrong and had assumed things that were not true about the situation. Since then, Nick Sirianni has come out to also deny claims that Brown was angry with Hurts. While it’s a relief to think that this was one big misunderstanding, there are certain aspects of this situation that will at least be troubling for fans.
The fact of the matter is, that Hurts has not been able to carry the team through the air, routinely missing opportunities and open receivers (often Brown). While that does not necessarily mean that Brown is frustrated with Hurts and the team. It may be a signal that foreshadows problems during the playoffs for the Eagles. Assuming Graham’s initial comments were not true, it’s still apparent there is a disconnect between Hurts and Brown on the field.
The Eagles have turned A.J Brown into a track athlete, just getting cardio.
If you’re a competitor, watch this, and tell me you wouldn’t be furious too.
#AchoAnalysis | @TheFacilityFS1 10am pic.twitter.com/sasqpNV1ab
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) December 9, 2024
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If Graham’s initial comments did have some merit, or even worse, his comments sparked a different internal feud, it’s an extremely worrying development. Last season, the Eagles suffered a horrendous late-season collapse fueled by dysfunction and miscommunication. With these comments, fans will be worried about the same thing spoiling a playoff run for the second consecutive year.
Where to Go from Here
The Eagles biggest strength right now is the run game with Saquon Barkley. They would be silly to stray away from what has got them on this win streak over ‘alleged’ hurt feelings. However, it’s reasonable to wonder if the Eagles can get to a Super Bowl without a strong passing game. So far, it has worked out for them with nine straight wins. Yet, when they play the top teams in the NFC, they will need to get it going.
The Eagles drama will lead up to a big game this Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and potentially onto the next week against the Washington Commanders. Everyone will have a close eye on the Eagles sideline in these games. However, people will also want to start seeing some big plays from Hurts, Brown, and Devonta Smith.
After the next two games, the Eagles finish the season against struggling division rivals, the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants. Both will be a good opportunity for the Eagles to get right before going into the playoffs. It can be frustrating to see things going so well to be met with this situation so late in the season. However, would it really be an Eagles season without a little Eagles drama?
Main Image: Eric Hartline – USA Today Sports
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