Eagles' New Offense: A Shanahan Blueprint?

The Philadelphia Eagles are set to host the Washington Commanders in Week 1 of the NFL season. This year's Eagles team features a new offensive coordinator, Sean Mannion, who is anticipated to install a Shanahan-style outside-zone run game with a greater emphasis on under-center play-action and passes to the middle of the field. This marks a significant shift from previous offensive schemes.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts' preferences will be key, especially with AJ Brown having been traded. DeVonta Smith is expected to assume a primary receiving role, while 2026 first-round pick Makai Lemon will aim to fill the void between the hashes. On defense, the Eagles enter their third year with Vic Fangio as Defensive Coordinator, known for a scheme designed to limit explosive plays and rely on a stout defensive front. The defense, which ranked 13th in yards and 5th in points allowed last season, returns with notable talent, though safety remains an area of less offseason focus.

Jeff Stoutland, a highly regarded offensive line coach, retired this offseason, with Chris Kuper taking over. Despite Stoutland's departure, early reports suggest positive development in the offensive line and excitement from players about the new scheme. The offensive line is expected to be healthier this season, potentially improving performance, though schematic impacts remain to be seen. The team also faces questions about depth at receiver and tight end following Brown's trade.

Training camp and preseason takeaways highlight the defense's strength, with impressive performances from the defensive front, including Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith, alongside a strong cornerback trio of Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, and Riq Woolen. Despite some uncertainty at safety, the overall defensive talent and Fangio's coaching inspire confidence. Game planning for the Commanders will likely focus on testing the Eagles' safeties and targeting specific cornerbacks, while the Eagles themselves are expected to heavily feature their run game, led by Saquon Barkley.